Graphite
Retrieval
System (E-GRS)
A modular external gripping system designed to handle, reposition and retrieve graphite blocks, graphite keys and reactor components without accessible internal channels.
The E-GRS enables controlled manipulation of intact, damaged and difficult-to-access components during nuclear reactor operations, maintenance and dismantling.
Graphite
Retrieval
System (E-GRS)
A modular external gripping system designed to handle, reposition and retrieve graphite blocks, graphite keys and reactor components without accessible internal channels.
The E-GRS enables controlled manipulation of intact, damaged and difficult-to-access components during nuclear reactor operations, maintenance and dismantling.
01
Patented External Gripping System
Proprietary vacuum gripping interfaces enable secure external contact with graphite blocks, graphite keys and reactor components, including geometries accessible from a single surface.
Designed to conform to irregular, dusty and non-ideal surfaces, the system supports stable manipulation, repositioning and retrieval while limiting unwanted sliding and rotation.
02
Rotational & Translational Stability
The gripping interface constrains both rotational and translational movement at the contact surface, preventing unwanted sliding or rotation and enabling stable, controlled manipulation of graphite blocks, keys and reactor components.
02
Rotational & Translational Stability
The gripping interface constrains both rotational and translational movement at the contact surface, preventing unwanted sliding or rotation and enabling stable, controlled manipulation of graphite blocks, keys and reactor components.
03
3D Handling
Enables controlled 3D manipulation of graphite blocks, keys and reactor components from a single gripping surface, supporting vertical, lateral and multi-directional movements.
The configurable system adapts to different component geometries and integrates with existing robotic platforms.
In action
Validated for External Graphite Handling and 3D Manipulation
The E-GRS was tested on L-54M AGOT reactor-grade graphite blocks measuring 100 × 100 × 1250 mm and weighing approximately 23 kg, demonstrating controlled external gripping and manipulation in multiple directions.
The system was also tested on Magnox graphite keys measuring 20 × 30 × 230 mm and weighing approximately 235 g, demonstrating stable single-surface gripping and controlled handling of small graphite components.
These results confirm the E-GRS as a validated external graphite retrieval system for components without accessible internal channels.
Technical Specifications
External Graphite Retrieval System — Validated on BEPO, Marcoule and L-54M Geometries
Validated at the Latina Nuclear Power Plant in collaboration with Sogin, lifting broken, scratched and non-ideal graphite blocks with a safety factor above 6.
Demonstrated payload
23 kg kg using 40% of the available contact surface
Handling capability
Controlled vertical and lateral movement, including damaged blocks
Secondary dust generation
Minimal
Operating principle
Vacuum gripping with proprietary suction cups
Intellectual property
Patented technology
Target reactor families
BEPO, Marcoule G1,G2,G3, L-54M, reflector blocks, keys
Technology readiness
TRL 5, validated in laboratory setting
Applications
Applications for External Graphite Handling Across the Nuclear Lifecycle
Controlled handling, repositioning and removal of graphite blocks and reactor components that cannot be accessed through internal channels during nuclear decommissioning.
Nuclear Decommissioning
Safe and scalable retrieval of irradiated graphite blocks during nuclear reactor dismantling and decommissioning.
Graphite Reactor Maintenance
Remote handling of graphite components during inspection, repair and reactor core maintenance activities.
Generation IV Reactor Construction
Precision handling and positioning of graphite components during Generation IV reactor assembly and installation.
Generation IV Reactor Operations & Decommissioning
Robotic handling solutions for maintenance, component replacement and end-of-life dismantling of Generation IV reactors.