Modular transportation concept for application in DEMO Oriented Neutron Source (DONES).

• Modular transportation concept developed feasible for transportation tasks in DONES. • Flexible transportation concept regarding changes in building layout and components. • Finite element analysis for standardized steel pallet. • Qualitative cost analysis of transfer alternatives. The qualification of materials to be used in the future DEMOnstration power plant (DEMO) is the main task of the DEMO Oriented Neutron Source facility (DONES). Over the next decades, experiments will be executed to analyze the reaction of in-vessel materials for DEMO which are exposed to neutrons of high energy. An efficient execution of experiments requires a steady maintenance and replacement of experiment-relevant equipment and machinery. In turn, the replacement requires a transportation concept for these components. This paper presents a solution for the transportation of heterogeneous components taking into account the different dimensions, geometries and weights. A modular transportation concept is developed that solves the transportation problem for all components with only one type of transfer device, a standardized pallet – which functions as an interface between the transfer device and components – and individual support structures. Moreover, the feasibility of the pallet to withstand the occurring loads is demonstrated by a Finite Element analysis. It is shown that compared to conventional solutions with many different transfer devices and load carriers, the modular concept enables a more cost-efficient and more flexible transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]