Radiation Hard Cameras for ISIS Target Stations 1 and 2

The equipment being ordered is essential to carry out work on highly radio active assemblies in the remote handling cell on ISIS Target station 2. The cameras give the operators close up images of the items being worked on which allow work to be done accurately and safely.

Working without cameras would be almost impossible as the only other view of the work is through a 1.4 metre thick, lead glass window. This work is carried out several times a year to replace cryogenic moderators which have a short working life span in the high radiation.

There is a high risk of damaging high value items in the active cell without the ability to see clearly. Damage to a new moderator which has a value of approx. £50 k. could potentially prevent ISIS from running until a new unit could be fitted.

This may take two weeks. Also there is the issue of exposing staff to active contamination if a repair to the damaged item was attempted.