Equipment Jacking System For Maintenance and Inspection
In the demanding environment of nuclear power plant refurbishment, precision and safety are paramount. Unified Engineering collaborated with industry experts to redesign a shielding canopy lifting solution tailored to the unique requirements of the RDP canopy. By integrating engineering expertise with innovative design, the Shielding Canopy Jacking System was developed to enhance operational efficiency and ensure secure handling during critical maintenance and inspection activities.
The Challenge:
In nuclear power plant refurbishment projects, maintaining and inspecting shielding canopies during retube operations presents unique challenges. The existing canopy design required an adaptable lifting solution capable of bearing significant weight while ensuring precise adjustments for elevated positioning. With safety and efficiency as priorities, a custom solution was needed to accommodate the demanding load and adjustability requirements.
The Solution:
Unified Engineering developed a custom Shielding Canopy Jacking System to address the lifting and maintenance needs of the RDP canopy. Designed to support up to 20,000 lbs, the jack stands are adjustable from 80 to 120 degrees and feature a hex shaft for manual or power tool-driven height adjustments. Each jack stand, weighing approximately 700 lbs, boasts a compact footprint and delivers precise, stable elevation for the shielding canopy. This collaborative effort between Unified Engineering and the client’s team ensured seamless integration into the existing setup.
The Benefit:
The Shielding Canopy Jacking System enhances the safety and efficiency of maintenance and inspection activities. By enabling precise manual adjustments and accommodating substantial loads, the system minimizes downtime and improves workflow. The comprehensive design package, including a bill of materials, spares list, and an operation manual, ensures ease of use, maintainability, and long-term reliability, ultimately supporting successful refurbishment operations.
