Aquajet Systems AB, a global leader in hydrodemolition machine manufacturing, recently introduced the Aqua Centralizer. According to the company, the unit’s innovative design and engineering allow for the effective cleaning or removal of concrete, paint, rust, and coatings along an entire section of horizontal, vertical, or inclined tunnels and pipes.

The Aqua Centralizer works in conjunction with Aquajet’s Aqua Cutter hydrodemolition robots and high-pressure Aqua Power Packs to provide strategic concrete removal in roadbuilding, wastewater, and industrial plant applications.

“The Aqua Centralizer integrates key components of several of our existing designs to provide operators a new solution for working in pipes and tunnels more effectively than ever before,” said Roger Simonsson, managing director.

How It Works

The Aqua Centralizer uses elements of the Aqua Spine as the base for the unit, all while incorporating technology from a circular power head attachment for concrete removal and cleaning applications. This includes a 360-degree ring and robotic power head with a 25-degree adjustable lance angle and variable stroke oscillation.

The power head offers adjustable working angles from 0 to 360 degrees and automatic indexing along the spine rail, minimizing downtime from repositioning and optimizing productivity. Combined with one of the company’s power packs, which provide pressure of up to 40,000 psi (275.8 MPa), this flexibility offers contractors the power and precision to effectively clean steel pipes and remove concrete inside tunnels and pipes, according to the company.

The modified spine that makes up the base of the Aqua Centralizer can span up to 19.7 feet (6 m) between a pair of triple support wheels. Supports feature adjustable caster wheels that are designed for 4.9- to 9.8-foot (1.5 to 3.0 m) diameter tunnels. For additional reach, the ring and circular power head can be mounted in front of the support wheels.

Three Ring Sizes

Centralizer rings are available in three sizes: 3.2 feet (1 m) for 4.9 to 6.5-foot (1.5 to 2 m) diameter tunnels; 4.9 feet (1.5 meter) for 6.5 to 8.2-foot (2.0 to 2.5 m) tunnels; and 6.5 feet (2 m) for 8.2 to 9.8-foot (2.5 to 3 m) tunnels. The powerhead adjusts up to 10 inches (25 cm) to facilitate the diameter ranges.

The Aqua Centralizer is easily assembled, according to the company, allowing for maximum productivity. A single bolt attaches the power head to the circular rail, with the spine roller attaching to the central spine rail the same way. Additionally, the attachment’s power head can be reversed for effectively removing concrete on the outside of pillars and pipes.

The centralizer is one of several efficiency-enhancing attachments available for use with Aquajet’s Aqua Cutter robots. It can be operated using one power pack and stored, along with the robot, in the power pack container for easy transportation to and from the jobsite. It also provides a secure location for the job’s duration.

Aquajet offers a 1-year or 1,000-hour warranty on the product and their full line of Aqua Cutter accessories. The company provides operators with initial, on-site training, as well as more extensive training through its Aquajet Academy program. The Aquajet Academy covers all aspects of advanced hydrodemolition, including streamlining work, safety practices, operating techniques, and services.

For more information, contact: Aquajet, (800) 621-7856, www.aquajet.se