Abstract
Metal shearspinning is one of the oldest of metal-forming processes, dating back to the Egyptian production of copper pots and bowls approximately 3000 years ago. Modern uranium shearspinning is an efficient method of precision metal forming which produces very little airborne contamination. A total of 98 air and wipe samples taken to date have revealed no excessive concentrations. Air samples were collected on Whatman 41 filter paper utilizing Staplex Type TFIA and ICN Model 8000 high-volume air samplers and the MSA Monitaire personal air sampler. The average breathing zone concentration was less than 5×10−13 µCi/ml. Samples were analyzed for alpha radiation in an alpha scintillation counter. In addition to monitoring of indoor and outdoor air concentrations, the control program plan included special facility design and construction, personnel medical clearance and surveillance, protective clothing, and control of waste products. Intermittent operation of the facility over the past two years has occurred without major incident. It is concluded that the control techniques outlined have been successful.