In a breakthrough that could redefine the future of nuclear decommissioning, a team of specialists has successfully operated a quadruped robot remotely from an off-site location. This breakthrough was achieved at the Sellafield site in Cumbria, England, and is the result of a collaboration between Sellafield Ltd. and AtkinsRéalis.
The Spot Robot operates remotely
The team used Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot, designed to perform remote inspections and cleanup work in hazardous environments, demonstrating the potential of advanced robotics to improve safety and efficiency in nuclear waste management.
With this transaction, Sellafield Ltd. has taken a significant step toward integrating remote technologies into its daily operations, aligning with the objectives of the UK Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).
Specialists operated Spot from an immersive room at Westlakes Science Park, several kilometers away from the nuclear site. Through a highly secure virtual access network, they were able to control the robot and view live images of the tasks performed at the Sellafield site.
Progress in nuclear dismantling
Deon Bulman, head of the ROV equipment program at Sellafield Ltd., emphasized that this test, in addition to validating the safety and effectiveness of remote robotics, paves the way for future innovations in the industry.
The ability to remotely operate robotic systems like Spot demonstrates how digital innovation can improve safety, efficiency, and decision-making at licensed nuclear sites.
Bulman said.
Richard Brook, head of technology solutions at AtkinsRéalis , noted that the use of virtual access at nuclear sites could be a game-changer for the industry, allowing operations to be carried out without compromising the safety or security of workers.
Sellafield Ltd has been a pioneer in adopting technology across its operations, and this latest milestone is another step forward for the role of robotics in decommissioning.
he added.
This project is part of the RAICo program , which seeks to reduce human activity at hazardous sites and develop automation solutions that transform nuclear operations. With the successful implementation of this technology, Sellafield Ltd. is paving the way for future decommissioning missions at other UK nuclear sites.
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Source and photos: Sellafield Ltd and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority
