Robotics in Nuclear Applications

Robotics is used more and more in conventional industry, and the technology is developing rapidly. There are motives for also trying the technology in nuclear applications, for example to carry out tasks in areas of high radiation, retrieve information that would not be feasible with other means, assist in security or to reduce operational- and maintenance costs.

This is an overview of the current use of robotics in industry, position of nuclear industry in development of robotics, guidelines for development of robotics strategy as well as lists case studies. There is a potential to use more robotics in the nuclear industry, both within versatile multi-purpose robots and specialized robots carrying out specific tasks. To increase the use of robotics in the Nordic nuclear industry it is suggested to develop a joint strategy on use of robotics.