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MDA performs critical inspection of Pickering nuclear reactor

^{Published on 2010-08-23 14:15:49 - Market Wire}
 

RICHMOND, BC, Aug. 23 /CNW/ - MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (TSX: MDA), a provider of essential information solutions, announced today that its robotics solution has successfully inspected critical components inside the Calandria Vault at the Pickering A Nuclear Station.

MDA's robotic solution gave Ontario Power Generation (OPG) its first close-up look at carbon steel components and structural welds deep within the concrete walls of the reactor. The operation demonstrates a significant financial and safety benefit to nuclear power operators.

Controlled from a remote work station, operators commanded the highly dexterous robotic solution inside the radioactive chamber through a very confined opening. The 14 metre robotic arm navigated through obstacles within the four-story reactor in a very controlled and precise manner to check for possible corrosion and degradation. Radiation resistant cameras provided 360 degree views and high resolution close-up images of the suspect parts at multiple inspection sites.

"MDA's robotic solutions are ideally suited for operating in these types of high value inhospitable environments," stated Steve Oldham, MDA's vice president responsible for this business. "As we continue to develop innovative new systems for next generation space initiatives, MDA is applying its space expertise to solve difficult and challenging problems here on Earth."

About MDA

MDA provides advanced information solutions that capture and process vast amounts of data, produce essential information, and improve the decision making and operational performance of business and government organizations worldwide.

Focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, MDA delivers a broad spectrum of information solutions, ranging from complex operational systems, to tailored information services, to electronic information products.

The Company's common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol TSX:MDA.

Note to Editors: A photo accompanying this release is available at [ http://www.mdacorporation.com/corporate/news/images/CVIRM_OPG_mockup.jpg ]

Related Websites:

[ www.mdacorporation.com ]

[ www.opg.com ]

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements and information, which reflect the current view of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. ("MDA") with respect to future events and financial performance. The forward-looking statements in this regard include statements regarding an inspection of a nuclear reactor by one of MDA's robotics solutions (the "Solution"). Any such forward-looking statements are based on MDA's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends. The factors and assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this release include the Solution performing as expected. Any such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. MDA cautions readers that should certain risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary significantly from those expected. The risks that could cause actual results to differ from current expectations include general economic, regulations and competitor changes; changes in government priorities, funding levels, contracts and regulations; failure of robotic solutions to meet performance requirements; and failure to anticipate changes in technology, technical standards or comply with the requisite standards.

For additional information with respect to certain of these risks or factors, plus additional risks or factors, reference should be made to MDA's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with Canadian securities regulatory authorities, which are available online at [ www.sedar.com ] or on MDA's website at [ www.mdacorporation.com ].

The Toronto Stock Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the form or content of this release.