High-speed water jet technology for renovation of concrete structures - new trends and possibilities

High-speed water jet technology is a modern technology for removing degraded concrete surface layers in the process of repair of concrete structures. Removal of damaged concrete layers has to be done very carefully to avoid further weakening of the structure, which is already damaged. Continuous water jet (generated by single nozzle) or continuous abrasive water jet are usually used. This paper presents results of research work focused on the application of high-speed water jet on concrete of different quality. Different types of high-speed water jet were tested. Technology of single continuous water jet generated with one nozzle as well as technology of revolving water jet generated with multiple nozzles was tested. Interesting results were obtained with continuous flat water jet and pulsating flat water jet. Connection of water jet with acoustic generator of pulsating jet offers new possibilities of water jet use. Water jet with such modification is more efficient in action and can be used even for cutting of plain concrete with relatively low energy consumption. Flat pulsating water jet newly used for renovation seems to be a promising technology.