Magnox Nuclear Flask - Train Crash Test

I was there...This short film describes the train crash and other testing on Magnox nuclear waste transportation Flasks in the 1980's.
Whilst not discussed in the video, dynamic impact data such as flask lid-bolt stresses, internal fluid pressure and also movement of flask (i.e. acceleration, de-acceleration, speed, directions of movement & role, etc) were all monitored and recorded in real-time via stain gauges, accelerometers and other electronic sensors. The data was stored on extreme high environment digital data loggers, custom designed to survive and work during the impact. This data was then extracted by computer and analyzed after the crash test.
I managed a small dedicated team of engineers and together we designed, deployed and then used this nearly indestructible instrumentation and data-logging equipment, to help test and prove the safety of the flask during a worst-case crash scenario. We lived the project day and night, sometimes working 24 hour days in the final run-up to the test.
I was the last person to check everything, switch on the recording equipment and walk away from the Flask just a few minutes before impact. I will always remember the impact sound and the sudden fireball that rose into the air (..a jaw dropping moment). The fireball was apparently caused by high voltage generator cables inside the locomotive that ripped apart on impact, thus arching and igniting diesel vapors (i.e. a bit like a giant cigarette lighter).
Whether you agree with nuclear power or not, tests like these did help to make, and prove, the industry a safer place. As a young engineer these were exciting times at the cutting edge of high-environment engineering. No corners were cut, no cheats implemented for public consumption and there would have been a lot of egg on faces if the test had failed.
I knew many of the people in the video and a younger version of me can be seen on the left-hand-side at 8min 6 sec's into the video, using the small data extraction computer.
For those interested, the computer was a re-engineered Apple 11e. There were no laptops in those days, so this one was rebuilt with a small screen and removable keyboard, to ruggedise and make it field portable. Instead of a HDD (hard disk drive), it was crammed full of 'bubble-memory' modules, which in those days were considered high density and much more robust.
I hope you enjoy the video, for which all associated rights are acknowledged. I also took many private photos at the time, before and after crash, which have never before been published. I will try to sort and post when I get time.
www.colinpizey.com