Open AccessA pneumatic transfer system for special form {sup 252}Cf
Author(s) -
R. J. Gehrke,
Steve Berry,
E. G. Grafwallner,
J. M. Hoggan
Publication year - 1996
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Reports
DOI - 10.2172/425282
Subject(s) - transfer (computing) , glovebox , electrical engineering , mechanical engineering , engineering , computer science , parallel computing
A pneumatic transfer system has been developed for use with series 100 Special Form {sup 252}Cf. It was developed to reduce the exposure to personnel handling sources of {sup 252}Cf with masses up to 150 {micro}g by permitting remotely activated two-way transfer between the storage container and the irradiation position. The pneumatic transfer system also permits transfers for reproducible repetitive irradiation periods. In addition to the storage container equipped with quick-release fittings, the transfer system consists of an irradiation station, a control box with momentary contact switches to activate the air-pressure control valves and indicators to identify the location of the source, and connecting air hose and electrical wire. A source of 20 psig air and 110 volt electrical power are required for operation of the transfer system which can be easily moved and set up by one individual in 5 to 10 minutes. Tests have shown that rarely does a source become lodged in the transfer tubing, but two methods have been developed to handle incomplete transfers of the {sup 252}Cf source. The first method consists of closing one air vent to allow a pressure impulse to propel the source to the opposite side. The second method applies to those {sup 252}Cf capsules with a threaded or tapped end to which a small ferromagnetic piece can be attached; an incompletely transferred source in the transfer tube can then be guided to a position of safety by surrounding the transfer tubing containing the capsule with a horseshoe magnet attached to the end of a long pole