The visual inspection and sorting table module will allow segregation of the drum s contents so that all non-compliant items are removed from the waste stream. The TWRM repackages the acceptable waste and removes it from the glovebox. The process waste reduction module will provide size-reduction of the original waste container so that it will fit into the repackaging container. Finally, the components for module integration perform a variety of functions including manipulation of the incoming 55-gallon waste drum, extricating waste stuck in the drum, and moving waste between modules. The majority of the TRU waste is the result of routine maintenance activities performed in plutonium processing operations.
Typical waste includes wipes, tape, cardboard, paper towels, gloves, bags, plastic suits, and tools.
Unfortunately, some of this waste is commingled with unacceptable items such as resins and aerosol cans. The process utilizes a welding and cutting operation to fuse and then separate the waste container from the glovebox while maintaining both glovebox and waste container integrity. The split plug bagless transfer system has been used at SRTC with metal cans and modified commercial welding and cutting tools for the processing of special nuclear materials. In the split plug bagless transfer process shown in Figure 2, a waste-receiving container made of metal or a polymer is inserted through a sphincter seal into the glovebox. It should be noted that this bond must be hermetic to fully encapsulate any contamination that may have gotten on the inner wall of the container or outer wall of the plug.