Three-dimensional modeling and simulation of manufacturing processes for transmuter fuel fabrication
Award Date
1-1-2004
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
First Committee Member
Georg F. Mauer
Number of Pages
108
Abstract
A proposed method of converting long-lived radionuclides contained within spent nuclear fuel into shorter-lived radionuclides is known as transmutation. The feasibility assessment of fuel manufacturing for transmutation is necessary for the overall success of the transmutation project. As part of that assessment, this paper reviews current methodologies for handling spent nuclear fuel and other highly radioactive material. While not exhaustive, the review encompassed facilities within the U.S. Department of Energy, international operations, as well as, work performed collegiately; The manufacturing of fuel for transmutation will certainly utilize automation and robotics. A simplified 3-D model of a fuel handling operation was produced. Forward and inverse kinematic routines were implemented for a commercially available robotic manipulator, as well as path planning routines. Multiple software packages were integrated and used to create 3-D robotic manipulator models and simulate the model; A timing study was performed which validated the need for process optimization throughout the design process.
Keywords
Dimensional; Fabrication; Fuel; Manufacturing; Modeling; Processes; Simulation; Three; Transmuter
Controlled Subject
Mechanical engineering; Force and energy
File Format
File Size
5775.36 KB
Degree Grantor
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Language
English
Permissions
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Repository Citation
Silva, Richard Arthur, "Three-dimensional modeling and simulation of manufacturing processes for transmuter fuel fabrication" (2004). UNLV Retrospective Theses & Dissertations. 1638.
http://dx.doi.org/10.25669/1wew-2kr7
Rights
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