Chapter 3 - Hydroblasting Equipment

Abstract

This chapter discusses various hydroblasting equipments such as high-pressure water jet machines, pressure generator, high-pressure hoses and fittings. High-pressure water jet machines are machines with nozzles or other speed-increasing openings, which allow water- also with admixtures - to emerge as a free jet. High-pressure water jet machines consist of drive, pressure generator, hose lines, spraying devices, safety mechanisms, and control and measurement devices. Mobile high-pressure water jet machines are readily transportable machines that are designed to be used at various sites, and are generally fitted with undergear or are vehicle mounted, all necessary supply lines being flexible and readily disconnectable. High-pressure pumps generate the operating pressure and supply water to the spraying device. Major parts of a positive displacement pump are crank-shaft; pump head with low-pressure inlet valves and high-pressure outlet valves; high-pressure plunger conversion set; and pressure regulator valves. Lifetimes of pump components depends on many parameters, as water quality, maintenance regime, and operating pressure. Most critical to wear and lifetime is the solid amount in water. If solid content increases, cost for replacement parts (valve seats, seals, plungers) increases. The transport of the high-pressure water to the spraying devices occurs through high-pressure lines. These lines are actually flexible hoses operationally connected by suitable hose fittings. Hose fittings are component parts or sub-assemblies of a hose line to functionally connect hoses with a line system or with each other. High-pressure hoses are flexible, tubular semi-finished product designed of one or several layers and inserts.