Safer and faster high level surface cleaning from ground level

Citation

(2002), "Safer and faster high level surface cleaning from ground level", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 49 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2002.12849dad.008

Safer and faster high level surface cleaning from ground level

Safer and faster high level surface cleaning from ground levelKeywords: Jetting systems, Surface cleaning

The latest addition to Calder's range of high pressure water-jetting systems and jetting accessories is described as an innovative jetting device suited for surface stripping on high vertical and inclined surfaces with the operator positioned safely at ground level. In addition to safer operating practices, Spiderjet 3000 (Plates 6 and 7), as the new device is known, also claims improved environmental operation, since all removed debris and waste-water are drawn automatically into a collection tank via a vacuum recovery system.

Plate 6 The Calder-Spiderjet 3000 can be precisely manoeuvred and controlled from a distance

Plate 7 The Calder-Spiderjet 3000 delivers 3,000-bar cleaning power

According to Calder, Spiderjet 3000 can be precisely manoeuvred and controlled from some distance, making it ideal for a wide range of difficult surface preparation tasks such as the cleaning of vessel hulls, oil and gas storage tanks as well as concrete/façade cleaning. In these typical applications one of the key benefits claimed of the new device is that it eliminates the logistical planning and costly erection of scaffold towers or the need to obtain a mobile access platform; surface cleaning can begin at extremely short notice.

A strong vacuum is said to hold this device secure to a work surface, with its movement controlled by two individually driven pneumatic motors. These, it is believed, add to the versatility of the new water-jetting system, allowing Spiderjet to be set for straight-line operation or manoeuvred in any direction since the two motors allow complete 360° rotation movement.

The new system from Calder is stated to deliver 3,000-bar cleaning power to remove paint, rust and other crustaceous deposits over a width of 375mm and at typical stripping rates as high as 70m²/h.

A significant feature claimed of Spiderjet 3000 is the dual role of the vacuum; as well as providing the clinging power to hold on to the work surface, it is also used to extract dislodged material and waste-water and deliver it to a collection tank for further treatment and disposal. This design is thought to add to the overall environmental benefits of using high-pressure water-jetting techniques for industrial, marine and petrochemical cleaning.

Details available from: Calder Limited. Tel: +44 (0)1905 723255; Fax: +44 (0)1905 723904; E-mail: pumps@calder.co.uk