Using the hydrodemolition technology ensures that the remaining structure, after the damaged concrete is removed, remains in good condition without any micro-cracks. Apart from the fact that no micro-cracks are created, the technology will remove only the bad concrete down to a pre-set quality level. This is called “selective removal” and creates a rough surface to ensure that the bonding between the old and the new concrete is more than twice as strong as when percussion methods are used. (European Norm, EN 1504, is a norm that requires a bond of 2mPa for sensitive structure, structural structures, in Europe) This means that the owner of the structure will get a far better repair of their structure as opposed to using the percussion methods such as jackhammers.
There are not only technical advantages, but the operation at the site will also proceed much faster as the robot will replace between 20-25 operators. This means that fewer people will be required and, with fewer man-hours, the contractor will be exposed to fewer accidents.
The use of a robot and a high-pressure pump, which is remotely operated, ensures that the operator is not exposed to certain risks, such as: “white fingers” and vibrations caused when jackhammers are used, silica dust from the water used, etc. Additionally, there is less noise as vibrations are not transferred to the structure as opposed to percussion methods.
The concrete wastewater generated by using this technology can be handled by equipment that cleans the water and adjusts the PH level so it can be drained into the local sewage system.
Consequently, the use of hydrodemolition will extend the life span of the structure and decrease the number of repairs over time. With a large number of sensitive structures in need of repair, the use of hydrodemolition will increase the process rate and provide a better-quality result than when conventional methods are used.
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