Design, Testing, and Qualification of Multiple Sub-assembly Handling Tool

A special tool is developed to explore the possibilities of handling multiple sub-assemblies simultaneously, outside the core of a fast nuclear reactor. The tool is developed in response to enable a safer and speedy handling of sub-assemblies in a test facility. The design of the tool is as per standard design codes and procedures, and provisions are provided in the tool to accommodate pitch errors in the arrangement of sub-assemblies. The tool also encompasses engineered features for fail safe handling and to ensure safety during the operation. This paper discusses the conceptual design of the new tool, its design features, the performance testing, and qualification under simulated conditions.