Intermodal modular spent nuclear fuel transportation system

Abstract

The Intermodal Modular Spent Nuclear Fuel Transportation System uses standardized truck, rail, barge or ship mounted equipment to transport nuclear materials including Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) in standardized overpacks maximizing interchangeability of transportation components. One or more standard truck transportable SNF canisters or standard overpacks are transported in shielded, truck-mounted overpacks. SNF canisters are transferred, using a winch or other movement device, to empty positions within large rail or barge transportable overpack bundles constructed using a plurality of overpacks. An overpack bundle is supported and raised by a cradle assembly and further may be rotated horizontally right or left to allow truck docking from a direction perpendicular to the normal orientation of the rail car. The overpack bundle is axially indexed for positioning empty overpacks for loading. Transfer of standard overpack may be accomplished using a pulling or pushing device or other movement device such as a winch. The overpack bundle is disposed upon a cradle assembly and secured with tiebands. The cradle assembly is provided with rollers displaced into operative position. The overpack bundle may be raised and supported while facilitating axial rotation.