Chemical Decontamination
Alaron is a pioneer in the development and use of the EPRI DfD process. The process involves the use of a dilute flouroboric acid and an oxidizer. The following EPRI sponsored reports provide a basic to in-depth description of the process.
- EPRI TR-123456 DfD February 1996
- Review of Experience with the EPRI DfD Process.
- EPRI INNOVATORS (IN-114722)- CLICK HERE to read a document describing one utility's quest to reduce cost while upgrading critical components.
Through "the school of hard knocks" Alaron's emplyees have developed methods of optimizing the DfD process. In conjunction with Bradtec Ltd., the brains behind the process, Alaron optimized two distinct DfD processes.
- DfD for 300 series stainless steel which was optimized for rapid removal rates for decontamination
- DfD "Lite" for 400 series stainless steel which was optimized for slow controlled removal rates
APPLICATIONS -- DfD
Alaron has used DfD to decontaminate highly radioactive stainless steel components down to levels where they can be processed for
envirocare disposal.
- Successful examples include:
- Control Rod Drives
- Shroud Head Bolts
- Reactor Coolant Pump Impellers
APPLICATIONS -- DfD "Lite"
Alaron has used DfD Lite to decontaminate safety related and non-safety related pumps prior to repair and optimization. The DfD Lite process has been proven in independent test not to cause IGSCC. Taussig Metallurgical Engineers report #119211, December 1994, Corrosion Testing of Ten samples in Flouoboric Acid. For a copy of this report on IGSCC testing contact Alaron. In addition, Alaron has performed tests to determine if oxides removed during the process could effect performance by removing material from the impellers. In a recent weighing test Alaron found no appreciable differences in component weight when comparing pre-decon weight to post-decon.
DfD Lite has also been successfully used to decontaminate monel compressor components from a Uranium Enrichment Process. This was a cost savings for the customer in that these components could be placed back in services rather than being disposed of as radioactive material.
Alaron has been 100% successful in taking the following pumps to free release:
- Centrifugal Charging Pump
- Containment Spray Pump
- Control Rod Drive Motor Pump
- Residual Heat Removal Pump
Alaron has joined efforts with several companies to provide refurbishment services for pumps. Several successful projects have been completed. For further information, please feel free to contact us.