Operation & maintenance |
Rethinking dam repair with hydrodemolition
As operators prioritise asset longevity, sustainability and safety, hydrodemolition is gaining traction as a preferred method for concrete repair in hydropower infrastructure. In this Q&A, Keith Armishaw, business development manager at Aquajet, explains how
robotic, high-pressure water jetting improves precision, protects structural integrity and supports more efficient maintenance of dams and related assets
In hydropower repair projects, Hydrodemolition can help reach areas inaccessible using traditional tools, such as high up on a dam face. Photo courtesy of Aquajet
How does hydrodemolition differ from traditional mechanical demolition methods when used in hydropower infrastructure repair? It starts with accessibility. That’s a big question around repairing hydropower infrastructure, such as a dam, that has hard-to-reach areas – “how can I get to this surface?” Hydrodemolition can help reach those spots that seem inaccessible using traditional tools. There is an expansive list of accessories on the market to enhance hydrodemolition machines’ versatility. This makes it possible to complete concrete removal on virtually any surface – vertical, overhead, inclined, underwater and confined areas with limited access. Since hydrodemolition robots are operated through remote controls, workers don’t have to be put in potentially hazardous conditions. Traditional methods often require extensive scaffolding, which can be challenging and time-consuming to set up. Controlling a hydrodemolition robot remotely from a safe area is much safer than removing concrete mechanically while standing on a ledge or suspended scaffolding. Hydrodemolition uses a high-pressure water jet to
remove concrete. The method is impact-free, meaning it won’t cause microfractures, helping ensure stability of the overall structure. The hydrodemolition will leave behind a rough but even surface that is ideal for bonding new material.
30 | February/March 2026 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
What specific advantages does hydrodemolition offer in terms of precision and selectivity when working around critical structures and embedded reinforcement? Hydrodemolition provides a range of structural benefits that make it effective for concrete repair and restoration. By creating a rough surface profile, it offers a great mechanical bond for new concrete without creating microfractures or “bruising” commonly seen with mechanical removal methods. Hydrodemolition selectively removes deteriorated, lower-strength concrete without fracturing exposed aggregates. Because of its vibration-free nature, the surrounding structure remains largely unaffected. Additionally, Hydrodemolition naturally cleans and protects reinforcing steel and other embedded metal elements during removal which often eliminates the need for secondary surface reinforcement.
Bonding performance is critical for long-term repairs. How does hydrodemolition contribute to improved bonding surfaces for new concrete compared to conventional methods? One of the most critical factors for improving the bonding surface is hydrodemolition eliminating microfractures. That’s what makes the bonding more durable and what sets it apart from more conventional forms of concrete
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45
