The Use of Hydrodemolition for Removal of Concrete Decks

The hydrodemolisher is a relatively new technology that removes deteriorated concrete from bridge decks through the use of water under very high pressure. Projects especially well-suited for hydrodemolition are large bridge rehabilitation projects where deck removal depths vary from two inches to full deck depth and in which complete deck removal and replacement is not warranted or is not feasible due to bridge design. The hydrodemolisher has the following advantages over today’s commonly used mechanical techniques: 1) constant, repeatable, results, once operating characteristics have been established; 2) guaranteed total removal of degraded material; 3) no damage to existing reinforcing steel or adjacent concrete in the removal process; 4) creation of a rough and sound concrete surface on which to bond the new concrete; 5) no impacts or vibrations; 6) no dust or fumes; 7) work may be done in inclement weather; and 8) one working unit can substitute from 30 to 50 jackhammers. The hydrodemolisher is not without its disadvantages, but as the technology matures the following disadvantages can be reduced or eliminated: 1) cost of equipment; 2) limited edge distance removal along curbs and walls; 3) water supply and water treatment after it is used; 4) cold weather limitations due to runoff freezing on work areas; 5) rebonding of debris if not properly removed; and 6) time required to set and align the hydrodemolisher.

• Corporate Authors:

  Federal Highway Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Kunza, James R
• Publication Date: 1989-2-20

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Appendices; Figures; Photos; References;
• Pagination: 17p

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bridge decks; Concrete; Demolition; Highway bridges; Water; Water pressure
• Uncontrolled Terms: Hydrodemolition
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation; I61: Equipment and Maintenance Methods;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01500878
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: Special Report 590
• Files: TRIS, ATRI, USDOT
• Created Date: Dec 5 2013 4:26PM