At Unit 2, the first full-scale removal of debris will be carried out, involving the use of a robotic arm. This time, in anticipation of that, a telescoping device (an instrument extending in the manner of a collapsible fishing rod) was inserted into the X-6 penetration, one of the holes reaching through to the reactor containment vessel, and a small amount of debris was sampled.<\/p>\n
Based on the results of that operation, TEPCO will increase the volumes of debris being removed.<\/p>\n
The telescoping device will suspend an end jig inside the PCV via a series of pushing pipes and internal and external guide cylinders\u2015a bit like ice fishing on a pond. The end jig will capture a sample weighing about 3g. All the pipes will then be pulled out in reverse order to the insertion process, after which they will be contained in a transport box.<\/p>\n
Work began on August 22 to prepare for connecting each of the five 1.5m-long pushing pipes. During a final check at the site, it was found that the first pipe was different from what had been intended, so the work was stopped. Work resumed on September 10 upon correction of the pipe, after which the checking at the site was completed.<\/p>\n