Aquajet Improves Its Versatility With an Extension Kit

Aquajet offers its Extension Kit system for improved reach and versatility in a variety of concrete removal and surface preparation applications, from the bridge deck, berth, and pier work to dams, tunnels, and wastewater plants. The kit allows extended reach side to side as well as vertical extensions and bends for hard-to-reach areas. Versions of the kit work with the Aqua Cutter 410, Aqua Cutter 710, and Aqua Spine.

“Our customers know how effective our robots are at removing concrete from flat surfaces like bridge decks, but our Extension Kit allows so much more,” said Roger Simonsson, Aquajet managing director.

“The accessory gives operators the ability to get into spots unreachable by other equipment, allowing a higher versatility, improved productivity and a quick return on investment.”

The Extension Kit provides an additional reach of about 5 to 8 feet (1.5 to 2.5 meters) — depending on the model — to help operators access hard-to-reach areas with the cutting head or Rotolance for surface preparation. In a bridge repair application, for example, contractors can use the extension kit to reach girders, the parapet edge, or even over a railing to remove concrete on the side of a bridge or column while the robot remains on the deck — all without the time and hassle of dismantling the bridge railing. The kit can also be configured to allow removal of material from the underside of a bridge deck, for example, by reaching over the edge and aiming the cutting head upwards. In addition, operators can use the kit to extend horizontal and vertical reach to about a 13-foot (4-meter) working width for a wider surface removal.

This flexibility saves contractors time and improves safety by eliminating the labor-intensive alternatives of using hand tools to remove concrete from difficult areas such as the side of a wharf below the waterline. In addition, the Extension Kit provides the inherent benefits of Hydrodemolition, including faster concrete removal, a better bonding surface for new concrete, no micro fracturing caused by heavy vibrations, and overall improved safety by allowing work from a distance.

The kit includes extension beams and articulated joints. Protective splash covers and a support wheel are available options.