Experts successfully completed the Energetics Batch Hydrolyzers systemization demonstration procedure in February.
“This equipment is the first in the neutralization process for the energetics removed from the M55 rockets,” said Scotty Conner, start-up supervisor, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass. “This was a challenging test with lots of moving parts, different computer code for each major set of equipment and 174 pages of operating procedures.”
The demonstration involved many different departments and took eight days, Conner said. The process began in the Explosive Containment Room airlock where one of the hydrolyzers’ robots picked up a hopper containing simulated M55 rocket parts and placed them in one of the hydrolyzers. Neutralization was simulated using water, and the parts were then placed on a specialized conveyor and delivered to a box which simulated a feed tray to the Metal Parts Treater, ending the demonstration.
“A lot of testing led up to this point,” Conner said. “This was the last big processing system demonstration under my area of responsibility because it was the most challenging. I have a tremendous sense of accomplishment from seeing the team all come together to make it happen.”
The next steps for the hydrolyzer system are to complete some work set aside until after the demonstration and then turn over the system to operations.
Click below to watch a short video on the Energetics Batch Hydrolyzers.