Aquajet Systems AB, recently acquired by Brokk AB, has introduced a hydrodemolition robot, the Aqua Cutter 410V. The model combines the size of the Aqua Cutter 410A and the mast system of the Aqua Cutter 710V, giving it versatility to work in tight spaces with extended reach in horizontal, vertical and overhead applications. The 410V’s design makes it suitable for a variety of concrete removal tasks, such as renovation and bridge and road repair.
The 2,756-pound (1,250-kilogram) Aqua Cutter 410V uses 15,000- to 40,000-psi water jets to remove as much as 9 cubic feet (.25 cubic meters) per hour of concrete. Contractors adjust the robot’s stroke to control the depth of cuts, and vary the water pressure depending on whether they are removing loose, deteriorated concrete from the sound concrete below, or sound concrete to a pre-determined depth. The process has the benefit of cleaning and descaling the rebar, whereas alternative methods, such as pneumatic tools or milling machines, may damage the rebar or produce microfracturing in the remaining concrete. Operators can control the 410V from a distance using the unit’s radio remote control, either wirelessly or with a hard wire. The remote communicates with the robot’s wheeled power control module. Contractors can remove the module from the tracked portion to reduce the crawler to a third of its original size and create an even more compact robot. This provides the ability to drive the crawler into inhospitable environments, such as small tunnels and flooded sewer pipes, while the module remains connected via a cord.
In addition, the 410V removes concrete in corners that would be difficult to access with hand tools. Its size allows operators to use the unit in confined areas — including passing through narrow passages, such as doorframes or operating from scaffoldings — while retaining mobility.
Contractors use the Aquajet cutting head and its multi axis 3D positioning system to operate on all horizontal, vertical and overhead areas. This includes straight up and down work, such as demolishing walls, shafts and furnaces. Aquajet constructs the 410V’s steel mast in sections, a design that gives the operator freedom to raise the front power head up to 13.2 feet without additional support.
Aqua Cutter robots feature ceramic nozzles designed for hydrodemolition applications. The nozzles last 300-350 hours, depending on the water quality.
All Aqua Cutter robots feature the patented Equal Distance System. EDS maintains a preset distance from the nozzle to the concrete surface, regardless of the angle of the water jet, allowing for efficiency and productivity. Systems without EDS lose as much as 20 percent of the power before the water hits the concrete, reducing productivity and increasing waste.
The 410V robot fits into Aquajet Systems’ 23-foot Power Packs. These metal containers include a Hammelmann pump, large capacity engine and control system, along with a storage area for the robot, making for a secure location for the duration of the job.
The hydrodemolition robot features ease of access for maintenance. The foldable back cover of the Aqua Cutter robots offers access for both daily jobs, such as checking oil levels, as well as periodic service jobs, such as oil and filter changes.
The 410V features electric power and is compatible with the Aquajet System line of accessories, such as rotolances and circular power heads, as well as spines and frames. Contractors can also choose the Aqua Cutter 410V Tunnel Kit. The kit features automatic detection and the ability to adjust the distance to the tunnel surface.