HengaoDe HAD-0115 Aviation-Grade Stainless Steel Remote Radioactive Source Handling Tongs

Overview

The HengaoDe HAD-0115 Remote Radioactive Source Handling Tongs are engineered for safe, precise manipulation of sealed radioactive sources and hazardous materials in regulated environments. Designed according to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles, the tongs operate on a mechanical lever-arm principle—transferring manual actuation at the handle to proportional gripping force at the jaw tip—eliminating electrical components or moving parts that could degrade under ionizing radiation. Constructed entirely from aerospace-grade austenitic stainless steel (AISI 316L equivalent), the device exhibits negligible activation, no embrittlement, and zero dimensional change following prolonged exposure to α, β, and γ radiation fields. Its passive, non-powered architecture ensures operational reliability in high-radiation zones where electronic instrumentation may fail or require frequent recalibration.

Key Features

• Material integrity: Fully fabricated from radiation-resistant aviation-grade stainless steel; certified non-activating under cumulative doses exceeding 10⁶ Gy (gamma)
• Adjustable jaw aperture: Maximum opening of 100 mm with fine-threaded adjustment mechanism for repeatable positioning and secure grip retention
• Ergonomic leverage ratio: Optimized 6:1 mechanical advantage reduces operator hand fatigue during extended handling tasks
• Extended reach: Total length of 1050 mm enables safe standoff distance from high-dose-rate sources (e.g., Ir-192, Co-60, Cs-137)
• Corrosion resistance: Passivated surface finish compliant with ASTM A967 for chloride-rich or humid operational environments
• Modular compatibility: Standardized 1/4″-20 UNC threaded interface at proximal end allows integration with telescopic extension poles or robotic mounting brackets

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HAD-0115 is validated for use with Class I–III sealed radioactive sources per IAEA SSG-28 and ISO 2919:2012 standards. It accommodates cylindrical, disc, and capsule geometries up to Ø90 mm × 45 mm in dimension. Jaw tips feature replaceable tungsten-carbide inserts (optional) for enhanced wear resistance when handling abrasive shielding containers. The tongs meet ANSI N13.12-2020 requirements for radiological tool performance and are routinely deployed in facilities operating under 10 CFR 20, EURATOM Basic Safety Standards Directive 2013/59, and national regulatory frameworks governing nuclear medicine, industrial radiography, and environmental monitoring. No calibration or periodic metrological verification is required due to its purely mechanical design.

Software & Data Management

As a passive mechanical tool, the HAD-0115 does not incorporate embedded electronics, firmware, or data logging capabilities. Its operational traceability is maintained through facility-level procedural documentation—consistent with GLP and GMP Annex 11 expectations for non-instrumented handling equipment. Users integrate usage logs into existing radiation work permit (RWP) systems, including entries for source ID, activity, handling duration, and operator dosimetry records. Optional laser-engraved serial numbering (per ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 7.8.2) supports asset tracking within LIMS or CMMS platforms.

Applications

The HAD-0115 serves critical functions across multiple regulated sectors:

• Nuclear medicine: Loading/unloading of Tc-99m, I-131, Lu-177, and Y-90 sources into shielded syringe shields and dose calibrators
• Industrial radiography: Positioning Ir-192 or Se-75 sources inside collimators and exposure devices without direct contact
• Research reactors & hot cells: Transferring irradiated samples between glovebox compartments and gamma spectrometry stations
• Radiation emergency response: Retrieving orphan sources or contaminated objects during field deployment (NFPA 472-compliant protocols)
• Decommissioning & waste management: Manipulating LLW/ILW packages during sorting, packaging, and drum loading operations
• Regulatory inspection: Used by IAEA and national regulatory inspectors during routine safety audits of radioisotope handling practices

FAQ

Does the HAD-0115 require annual recalibration?

No. As a purely mechanical device with no sensors, transducers, or electronic feedback loops, it is exempt from calibration under ISO/IEC 17025 and ASTM E2500-17. Visual inspection for structural integrity and jaw alignment is recommended prior to each use.

Can it be sterilized for use in clinical nuclear pharmacy settings?

Yes. Compatible with autoclaving (121°C, 15 psi, 20 min) and ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization cycles. Surface passivation ensures no chloride-induced pitting after repeated steam exposure.

Is it suitable for underwater handling in spent fuel pool environments?

The standard model is rated for immersion up to 3 meters depth (IP68). For extended submersion (>1 hr), optional electropolished finish and vacuum-degassed welds are available upon request.

What is the maximum permissible source activity for safe operation?

There is no intrinsic activity limit—the safe working distance is determined by facility-specific dose rate modeling (e.g., using MCNP or MicroShield). At 1 m standoff, the tongs enable handling of sources emitting up to 10 Sv/h at contact point without exceeding occupational dose limits.

Are replacement jaw inserts available?

Yes. Tungsten-carbide (WC-Co) and PTFE-coated stainless steel inserts are stocked and shipped with full material certification (EN 10204 3.1).