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Optimum DWPF (Defense Waste Processing Plant) processing rate
C.B. Goodlett, W.R. McDonnell, Steve Thomas, Jeffrey Geiger
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Abstract
The optimum rate for processing radioactive waste through the Defense Waste Processing Plant (DWPF) Vitrification Plant has been developed consistent with operating and economic constraints imposed by feed preparation requirements. Results indicate there is little difference between operating at the maximum versus the minimum rate. The maximum processing rate is constrained by the radioactivity of the sludge component of the waste, while the minimum rate is established by the residence time of a radioactive organic precipitate produced during removal of Cs-137 from the waste salt in the storage tanks. Considerations impacting the rate of DWPF processing include safety of storing radioactive liquids versus a solid waste form; liquid storage space available in the existing waste tanks; time required to allow for radioactive decay of the heat generating wastes; and relative costs of DWPF operation versus interim storage capacity for the waste glass canisters. 10 refs., 2 figs.