Orano NPS, the Orano Group's nuclear logistics subsidiary, has signed a contract with Japan’s Mitsubishi Nuclear Fuel (MNF) to join a package share group dedicated to DN30 casks. MNF is part of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) group .This is new service for the nuclear industry comprises the formation of a package-share group for the transportation of enriched uranium (uranium hexafluoride – UF6), modelled on car-sharing and based on use rather than individual ownership. MHI will have access to a common fleet according to its own specific needs.
Enriched UF6 is transported in Type 30B cylinders, which are loaded into a protective structural packaging, or overpack, which provides protection against mechanical and thermal impacts in the event of possible accidents during transportation. The DN30 package was developed by Daher Nuclear Technologies GmbH, which was renamed Orano NCS following its acquisition by the Orano Group in 2021.
This new service provides for simplified management of UF6 transport operations through the pooling of a fleet designed to meet requirements including load peaks. The service also includes the provision of centralised fleet management centres where the packaging fleet is stored. This will include specialised resources for DN30 inspection, maintenance and re-certification. The service package also includes a specialised service to guarantee continuity of approvals and availability of the DN30 casks. This rental-sharing service will be offered to all Orano NPS customers worldwide.
Image: The DN30 casks (courtesy of Orano Group)
