Barrnon has completed an extended off-site demonstration and testing programme of its BIDS robotic laser cutting system, marking a significant step forward in the maturity of the technology.
The system has now reached a new level of operational readiness, with an intuitive user interface that allows operators to remotely plan and execute cutting tasks using a simple “click-and-go” approach. This gives operators enhanced ability to safely and confidently control complex end effectors, including laser cutters and gripping tools, in challenging nuclear decommissioning environments.
As part of the demonstration programme, the system was shown to Sellafield stakeholders using a representative mock-up environment. During the trials, BIDS was used to remotely cut up two stainless steel vessels, demonstrating the ability to carry out complex size-reduction tasks while keeping the operator at distance.
The work builds on Barrnon’s wider capability in robotics, remote handling, digital control systems and nuclear decommissioning tooling. It also demonstrates how advanced user interfaces, 3D visualisation and robotic control can be combined to make high-risk decommissioning tasks safer, more repeatable and easier for operators to manage.
Barrnon will continue to develop the BIDS platform as part of its wider programme of modular robotic systems for nuclear decommissioning, with a focus on practical deployment, operator confidence and reducing risk on site.