The US Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM) and its contractor at the Idaho Clean-up Project have removed an important support structure of the Submarine first generation Westinghouse (S1W) naval propulsion prototype in preparation for the facility’s demolition.
EM contractor Idaho Environmental Coalition (IEC) has completed demolition of the S1W hot cell, the seven-foot-thick concrete structure where workers performed high-radiation work and materials inspections while the prototype operated at the Naval Reactors Facility at the Idaho National Laboratory Site.
Because of the thickness of the hot cell, S1W deactivation and decommissioning (D&D) crews originally planned to deploy targeted explosive charges to delaminate the outer few feet of the concrete. Delamination is the process of separating materials like concrete by its layers, a common practice in the demolition industry used to weaken some materials that are otherwise difficult to manage.
Crews conducted inspections to remove contaminated materials from the hot cell and ensure the safe deployment of the explosives. This essential step protects the workforce and the environment from the potential spread of any contaminants during demolition while ensuring risks are reduced.
During inspections, crews investigated whether the concrete walls could be removed more simply using heavy equipment, such as excavators and hydraulic hammers, eliminating the need for explosive demolition. This adjustment proved to be successful, as the excavators and hydraulic hammers broke the concrete into manageable pieces. Crews used a spray truck to soak the concrete and control the spread of dust during demolition, a measure protective of the workforce and environment.
“Our workforce has rapidly advanced through each stage of demolition at the S1W because they have been able to adjust to the demands of the project,” said IEC D&D and Capital Projects Senior Director Mike Swartz. “Their commitment to safety has not only allowed us to successfully perform the work at S1W, but to do it while remaining true to our priorities to protect our workforce, the public and the environment.” D&D crews will now continue to prepare for demolition of the high bay facility housing the prototype.
