Design and testing of the TX-4 Type A container for packaging radioactive waste

The Toxic Waste Control Group at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory has designed and tested the TX-4, a Type A steel container for shipping and storing radioactive waste. We designed the TX-4 to eliminate the safety, maneuverability, weight, and cost problems experienced by other hazards waste containers. Our design meets the test criteria set by the Department of Transportation (49 CFR 173.398). The TX-4 container passed all tests when loaded to 7000 lb gross weight and effectively solved the above problems. Its simplicity of design, low weight, and ease in handling have proved to be timesaving and cost-effective. This report summarizes our testing of the TX-4 and past and present radioactive waste containers used by defense-related operations. Based on our results, we believe the TX-4 is a superior container for the hazardous waste industry. 10 figures, 1 table.