As the Uranium Processing Facility (UPF) Project Construction team continues to turn over key systems to UPF Startup for an early start on testing, one such system is MagneMotion®, which is housed in the Tool Preparation and Storage (TPS) glovebox enclosure.
The TPS glovebox enclosure is the largest glovebox by volume in UPF, and it was turned over to the Startup team on December 15, 2025. Component testing on the essential elements of the TPS system, including MagneMotion, are underway.
Essentially a giant, complex vending machine, TPS will allow UPF’s Operators to select the right tools they need for their tasks. Incorporated in the system’s design are examples of UPF’s improved ergonomic conditions, such as keeping the operator’s focus area at eye-level and their task at working level for their arms. After collecting the tools they need for their task, the MagneMotion carts will carry the tools to other areas of UPF.
MagneMotion is a technology used and proven in industry, such as auto manufacturing, that allows gloveboxes to remain sealed, preventing contamination outside the gloveboxes and protecting UPF’s Operators. MagneMotion’s equipment can also be repaired and maintained from outside the sealed glovebox.
A collection of MagneMotion carts have been stored in TPS, and their release for testing was tied to the overall TPS system. With TPS turned over, the Startup team could begin testing this key aspect of material movement starting within TPS and then expanding out as additional systems are turned over to their team.
Before the end of 2025, the Startup and Engineering Instrument and Controls teams tested the first MagneMotion carts, including moving the carts along the track. There are approximately 700 feet of MagneMotion track within UPF and 14 systems use the carts. The testing speed for the carts is about 1 foot per second.
Once operational, UPF will enable the long-term viability, safety, and security of uranium capabilities in the United States, improving operator safety and lowering operating and maintenance costs.
Want to know more about how the Uranium Processing Facility will transform operations at Y‑12? Do you know what it looks like to stand inside a glovebox enclosure? Check out this video filmed inside the tool preparation and storage glovebox enclosure at UPF to learn more about testing the MagneMotion technology that will transform operations at Y‑12.