Design Considerations - hdbk1132990080

DOE-HDBK-1132-99

2.4.2

Design Considerations . The design of processing facilities should consider

inclusion of the design features described below. Design requirements vary

significantly depending on the characteristics of the uranium, the type of

processing and handling activities, and the characteristics of the site.

Materials of different uranium assays should be handled in physically

different trains of equipment even though duplication of equipment

results. If this is not possible, the equipment should be sized for criticality

control of the most restrictive condition.

A definite isotopic specification for reactor returns should be established

before facility design is started for refabrication of enriched uranium that

has been irradiated and reprocessed.

Metallurgical processes and ceramic materials processing are the two

principal types of processes for fabrication of uranium products. The

hazards associated with each of these processes should be considered

during the design of the fire protection, ventilation, and confinement

systems. In addition, the chemical toxicity of uranium should be

considered during the design of the facility. The design should provide

specific control and isolation of flammable, toxic, and explosive gases,

chemicals, and materials admitted to the areas of the facility.

The design should provide space for shielding, both permanent and

temporary, of personnel and/or remote operations of equipment and

processes.

The primary confinement system should be constructed of fire-resistant

materials, and the process equipment and process being confined should

be designed to prevent or minimize the probability of potential flammable

or explosive conditions. Confinement enclosures for flammable metals

should be designed with self-contained fire protection and extinguishing

equipment; in some cases, inert atmospheres may be desirable within the

enclosures.

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