Remote welding on the pipe assembly in the large cell

The concept of a large scale integrated remote handling cell has been introduced in the recent reprocessing and vitrification facilities. For preplanned exchange of wear components and modules, the pipings of these components and modules are connected by the use of remote jumpers. In most cases such components are connected by means of welded joints, so as to avoid the necessity of checking for leaks at lesser mechanical joints. This paper looks at the development of techniques and equipment for the remote servicing and replacement of such components, involving the remote servicing of welded joints.