The dismantling of a nuclear power plant is an extraordinary project, both organizationally and technically. Under strictly regulated nuclear conditions, the individual systems of the nuclear power plant are decommissioned, dismantled, treated for specific materials and sent to the available disposal channels until the entire plant has been dismantled. Our employees can provide support throughout the entire dismantling process and take on the analysis, design and implementation of central or supporting processes.

As part of the project, Roeren analyzed the area of residual material treatment – the logistical heart of the dismantling process. In order to prevent radiological contamination of the environment, each material must undergo specific treatment processes depending on its composition. Due to the diverse material characteristics, predefined, material-specific process chains in various combinations are required. This leads to a high level of complexity in terms of machine utilization and logistical processes.

The process analysis carried out revealed significant challenges that affect process stability: Bottlenecks in material logistics, a lack of transparency in the flow of information and a high level of manual management of processes in the control area. In addition, the cultural transition from long-term service operation to dismantling posed a major challenge for the workforce.

Our project work at a glance: The project team systematically examined the logistical processes (e.g. skip logistics, buffer logic), the control of the containers and the interfaces between dismantling, residual material treatment and disposal. Structured interviews, comprehensive on-site inspections and data-based throughput analyses were used to develop targeted measures to optimize material flows, machine utilization and reduce manual control.

A key result was ensuring that the maximum targeted dismantling masses could be achieved. Working together as equals was crucial to the success of the project.