Aquajet Aqua Spine takes Hydrodemolition to a new level
Aquajet Systems AB, a global leader in hydrodemolition machine manufacturing, introduces the Aqua Spine. The multi-modular system uses high-pressure water jets to precisely remove concrete from surfaces that may be inaccessible for Aqua Cutter robots, Aquajet’s traditional hydrodemolition machines. Used for onshore and offshore construction as well as in conventional and nuclear power plants, the Aqua Spine brings the power of hydrodemolition to tight, small places like never before.
“The Aqua Spine is an extremely versatile piece of equipment that sets itself above the rest when it comes to removing concrete,” said Roger Simonsson, Aquajet Systems managing director. “It allows operators to remove concrete in areas that have previously been inaccessible in a safe and efficient manner.”
Hydrodemolition uses high-pressure water jets to precisely remove sound, deteriorated or damaged concrete. The sustainable method leaves rebar undamaged while protecting and preserving existing concrete. The Aqua Spine eliminates vibrations that cause micro-fracturing as well as reduces exposure to harmful silica dust. The method leaves a sound surface ready to accept new material.
Aquajet designed the Aqua Spine as a multi-modular system with a single feed beam to ensure adaptability to different applications. The system adjusts from 3-19 feet (1-6 meters) and works well in applications such as roads and bridges, hydro and nuclear power plants, and underwater demolition. The modular design allows the Aqua Spine to enter hard-to-reach corners, where the floor and wall meet, to remove concrete without the use of hand lances.
An Aqua Cutter robot or standard Power Control Unit controls the Aqua Spine. A separate Power Pack contains everything else needed for the job. It provides easy handling for equipment, accessories and tools and houses a powerful diesel motor and high-pressure pump.
When working on flat surfaces, the modular system bolts onto walls, floors or ceilings. For increased versatility, hydraulic platforms, cranes and scaffolding can support the Aqua Spine. The system works well underwater on bridge pillars using the Circular Power Head. The 360-degree ring wraps around pillars of any diameter, allowing the Aqua Spine to operate without having to be moved. No matter the support or location, the Aqua Spine moves accordingly to remove concrete without damaging the rebar. The Aqua Spine can be assembled and modified for a variety of tasks based on specifications. Contractors can change the length and width of the Aqua Spine seamlessly by adding or removing spine beam sections.
The system comes with two interchangeable rail systems: Dual and Triple. The smaller Dual system works best in confined areas when connected to a scaffolding’s multiple attachment points. The Triple system is used when the Aqua Spine is placed horizontally or free standing. It works well for a longer span, which can be up to 19 feet (6 meters) long and doesn’t need additional support.
The Aqua Spine takes roughly a few hours to set up. The standard setup, with triple spine in max configuration, allows the Aqua Spine to remove about 194 square feet (18 square meters) of concrete before needing to be moved. The Aqua Spine handles the same pressure and flows as the Aqua Cutter robots, roughly 15,000 to 40,000 psi.
All Aquajet products use ceramic nozzles to ensure a long lifespan and minimal downtime. The ceramic nozzles last as long as 300 to 350 hours, depending on the water quality. In comparison, standard steel nozzles used on competitive equipment last 20 to 40 hours.
The Aqua Spine also comes with the adjustable oscillation system. This allows the stroke of water to be changed within a minute to adapt the nozzles for varying depths of cuts. The system can be used with the Aquajet EcoClear Water Treatment System, ensuring the wastewater generated by the hydrodemolition process can be safely released back into the environment after neutralizing the water’s pH and reducing its turbidity.
The Aqua Spine works with an array of Aquajet hydrodemolition equipment, including the Aqua Cutter 410A and 410V; Aqua Cutter 710H, 710V and 710V XL; and the Power Control Module.
