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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Separation system

Patent ·
OSTI ID:865826
A separation system for dewatering radioactive waste materials includes a disposal container, drive structure for receiving the container, and means for releasably attaching the container to the drive structure. Separation structure disposed in the container adjacent the inner surface of the side wall structure retains solids while allowing passage of liquids. Inlet port structure in the container top wall is normally closed by first valve structure that is centrifugally actuated to open the inlet port and discharge port structure at the container periphery receives liquid that passes through the separation structure and is normally closed by second valve structure that is centrifugally actuated to open the discharge ports. The container also includes coupling structure for releasable engagement with the centrifugal drive structure. Centrifugal force produced when the container is driven in rotation by the drive structure opens the valve structures, and radioactive waste material introduced into the container through the open inlet port is dewatered, and the waste is compacted. The ports are automatically closed by the valves when the container drum is not subjected to centrifugal force such that containment effectiveness is enhanced and exposure of personnel to radioactive materials is minimized.
Research Organization:
Foster-Miller, Inc., Waltham, MA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-84ER80208
Assignee:
Foster-Miller, Inc. (Waltham, MA)
Patent Number(s):
4,585,558
Application Number:
06/652,322
OSTI ID:
865826
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English