Shielding Valve Body, Internally

[RemBoy]

 

Here's the scenerio;
While working a valve that a person can physically enter to his upper body, high dose can be received.  Shielding outside will only benefit those in the vicinity, outside the valve body. 
Question;
Has anyone had any experience with, know of hearsay concerning shielding the piping walls internally.  The shielding would obviously need to be rigid in order to not sag and impose on the workers ability to do his job. 
Perhaps a lead sleeve that can be lowered/lifted into place, with an edge around the top that sets on the valve flange area.

Any idea where one would order special lead items?

Thanks for any input

[SloGlo]

google radiation shielding

probably a good idea to know the isotopic mix that yer shielding against.  also, the percentage attributable to the lines as opposed to the emanation from the valve internal bowl.  also, the dose rate in the valve body area, so that the workers' upper body dose rates are disproportionate after the shielding is complete. 
have fun

[Roll Tide]

The setup I have seen in a similar circumstance involved gross wipe of the internal pipe walls, coating with approved substance to fix the rest (Elmer's glue), and then shielding the line. A stainless steel barrier is a good place to rest conventional lead blankets.

[SloGlo]

i've also seen work in valves like this that were done via extremity dose, i.e. shielding the plane of the valve with openings for arms and vision.  it depends on the operation to be performed. 

[Mike McFarlin]

If shielding is difficult and dose that high, just replace the valve. The dose vs cost will probably offset.

[SloGlo]

If shielding is difficult and dose that high, just replace the valve. The dose vs cost will probably offset.

sorta depends ona valve, huh?  $250k valve will buy a lot of shielding, dose, 'n work now won't it?