Case Study
Hull Hot Cells
Project:
Hull Hot Cells
Client: University of Hull
History: The University of Hull engaged Cyclife Aquila Nuclear to design, manufacture, install, and commission two non-GMP Hot Cells. These Hot Cells are intended for the development and manufacture of radiopharmaceutical products. Silchester Control Systems provided EC&I (Electrical, Control, and Instrumentation) services.
Solution
Silchester Control Systems developed a comprehensive control system for the Hot Cells, which included both hardware and software components. The solution involved:
- Hardware Specification: Utilisation of Allen Bradley PLC controllers and Schneider Electric HMI operator interfaces.
- Control System Functionality: Detailed operations for various components such as shield doors, inner doors, post-out port plugs, and ventilation systems. Each operation was governed by specific conditions to ensure safety and functionality.
- Communications Topography: Implementation of a MODBUS protocol for communication between the PLC and HMI units.
- HMI Screens: Development of user-friendly HMI screens for operations like start-up, alarms, main operations, safety, shield door control, containment, post-out operations, pass-through operations, and configuration.
- Control System Alarms: A comprehensive alarm system to monitor and alert operators of any issues within the Hot Cells.
- System Operation Philosophy: The control system was designed to ensure safe and efficient operation of the Hot Cells, with specific interlocks and overrides to manage various operational scenarios.
- Service Requirements: The system included detailed service requirements for components such as the main control panels, pneumatic panels, gamma monitors, cell cameras, and emergency stops.
Silchester’s scope included compliance, performance, coordination, integration, design, detailing, engineering, manufacture, assembly, testing, commissioning, and documentation.
Results
The implementation of this control system resulted in:
- Enhanced Safety: The system ensured that all operations within the Hot Cells were performed under strict safety conditions, minimising the risk of accidents.
- Improved Efficiency: The automated control and monitoring system streamlined the operations, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.
- User-Friendly Interface: The HMI screens provided clear and intuitive controls for the operators, facilitating easier management of the Hot Cells.
- Reliable Communication: The use of MODBUS protocol ensured robust and reliable communication between the control units and the operator interfaces.
- Comprehensive Monitoring: The inclusion of various interlocks and alarms provided a thorough monitoring system, ensuring any issues were promptly identified and addressed.
The successful implementation of the EC&I systems ensured the safe and efficient operation of the shielded hot cells at Hull University. The facility now supports advanced research into positron-emitting isotopes, enhancing the university's research capabilities.
Silchester Control Systems
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