Construction |
Bringing innovative hydrodemolition to hydropower
Explore the impact of Aquajet’s Hydrodemolition technology on concrete removal and repair in hydropower applications, as managing director Roger Simonsson shares insights into the innovative Aqua Cutter 750V and its role in advancing industry practices
Can you provide a brief overview of Aquajet’s role and expertise in the hydropower and dams industry? Hydrodemolition has grown in popularity for efficient concrete removal and long-lasting repairs in applications such as roads, bridges and parking garages. The technology applies to the hydropower and dam industry for the same reasons. It’s up to 25 times faster than handheld methods with low labor requirements and it offers a longer lifespan for structures. The Swedish Cement and Concrete Research Institute reports a repair life expectancy of 21-35 years with Hydrodemolition, compared to 7-12 years with mechanical chiseling. Our customers are leveraging these advantages
to successfully complete major dam projects. In British Columbia, for example, a contractor recently repaired a spillway that was cracked from years of runoff and thaw-freeze cycles. Hydrodemolition was recommended for the project because of its ability to accelerate the repair process and increase the concrete’s life cycle. It was a complex job that needed large portions of concrete removed, but the customer used our Hydrodemolition equipment to get the job done significantly ahead of schedule.
Hydrodemolition robots offer 25 times more efficiency than handheld equipment for hydropower applications such as dam face and spillway repair Photo courtesy of Walco Industries
66 | May 2024 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
How does Aquajet’s Aqua Cutter 750V Hydrodemolition robot work, and what makes it a valuable solution for concrete removal and surface preparation in hydropower applications? The Aqua Cutter 750V is our newest Hydrodemolition robot that uses a high-pressure water jet up to 40,000 psi (2,758 bar) to remove layers of damaged and deteriorated concrete. The 750V introduced our patented Infinity oscillation that moves the lance in an infinity – or Figure 8 – pattern. Before this technology, Hydrodemolition has had either an oscillating lance system, which is characterized by a pendulum movement, or rotating lance system, which includes a water jet that exits at a predetermined angle. Our Infinity oscillation combines the oscillating and rotating lance movements to create the Figure 8 pattern. This allows the 750V to remove more material in a single pass, which significantly reduces shadowing and eliminates the need for any follow-up with hand lances. It also virtually eliminates pipe holes, leaving behind a superior bonding surface and increased productivity. The versatility and efficiency of the 750V carry
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