Abstract: A method and apparatus for diamond wire cutting of metal structures, such as nuclear reactor vessels, is provided. A diamond wire saw having a plurality of diamond beads with beveled or chamfered edges is provided for sawing into the walls of the metal structure. The diamond wire is guided by a plurality of support structures allowing for a multitude of different cuts. The diamond wire is cleaned and cooled by CO2 during the cutting process to prevent breakage of the wire and provide efficient cutting. Concrete can be provided within the metal structure to enhance cutting efficiency and reduce airborne contaminants. The invention can be remotely controlled to reduce exposure of workers to radioactivity and other hazards.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a window or foil that transmits incident radiation with high efficiency and that is coupled to a cooling means to dissipate heat from radiation losses occurring within the window. In one aspect the invention provides an energy-transmitting system that includes a nonmetallic window and means for cooling the window. In a second aspect the invention provides a laser assembly including a laser cavity enclosed by a wall that has one or more surfaces, wherein at least one surface includes an actively cooled window of the invention. In various embodiments of both the energy-transmitting system and the laser assembly the window includes a dielectric material, or a semiconducting material such as silicon. In addition a corrosion-resistant coating may be deposited on at least one surface of the window.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for diamond wire cutting of metal structures, such as nuclear reactor vessels, is provided. A diamond wire saw having a plurality of diamond beads with beveled or chamfered edges is provided for sawing into the walls of the metal structure. The diamond wire is guided by a plurality of support structures allowing for a multitude of different cuts. The diamond wire is cleaned and cooled by CO2 during the cutting process to prevent breakage of the wire and provide efficient cutting. Concrete can be provided within the metal structure to enhance cutting efficiency and reduce airborne contaminants. The invention can be remotely controlled to reduce exposure of workers to radioactivity and other hazards.