Maximum usable removal speeds for containers with spent fuel assemblies

This paper describes an analysis of handling times and sequences of operation for transport of irradiated fuel assemblies from a BWR and a PWR. Actual operational sequences have been observed at Oskarshamn 2 (BWR). Similar data have been provided from the Ringhals 2 plant (PWR), based upon lay-out drawings, crane specifications and staff experiences at the plants. The study reveals that during ordinary handling of spent fuel casks in both PWRs and BWRS, the cask is in continuous view of surveillance cameras for several hours. In the most extreme case, when preparations before and after loading of the container are omitted or done in the transport alley out of view of the surveillance camera, the time interval the container is visible to the camera is considered to be around 10 minutes.