Hydro Demolition

Hydro demolition is a fast and efficient method of concrete removal, without damaging the surrounding structure and embedded rebar, utilising the power of high-pressure water. A jet of high-pressure water is directed at the surface of the concrete where it penetrates the voids and micro-cracks. When the water pressure inside the voids overcomes the pressure of the concrete a “blast” occurs.

Hydro demolition can be used for many different applications without the use of jackhammer’s including beams and fender repairs on wharf’s, concrete top deck, channel and slot excavations and deep concrete penetrations.

When rebar or other embedded steel is struck by a jackhammer, vibrations will travel deep into the concrete to areas of sound concrete. Micro fractures and loosening of the rebar is often the result. This can create areas of potential future problems once the concrete is replaced.

With hydro demolition sound concrete is not removed nor is it necessary to replace rebar that has been damaged by the impact of jackhammers. The result is a savings in time, money, and materials.

Benefits of Hydro Demolition

Steel reinforcing can be left intact and de-scaled
Removes corrosion and mortar paste
Dust free
Reduced noise
Can precisely and selectively remove damaged or deteriorated concrete, leaving sound concrete intact
Leaves an exposed, washed and scarified surface on the aggregate, providing an ideal surface for the bonding of new layers

No vibration reduces unnecessary de-lamination or damage to adjacent structures
Embedded reinforcing can be exposed and cleaned of rust and scale without damage
Provides excellent bonding of exposed substrate to new layers due to its cleaning action
Dilutes chloride ion concentrations at bonded surfaces
Is faster and more efficient than conventional mechanical methods of demolition