The versatility of high-pressure water jetting (HPWJ) knows few bounds. When considering commercial applications, in particular, the technology has many benefits. These include its relative affordability, efficacy, productivity and low environmental footprint.
When it comes to industrial HPWJ use, such as within oil & gas, mining, utilities, shipping and energy there are numerous applications, but 4 immediately come to mind;
4 Common HPWJ Industrial Applications
Industrial cleaning and maintenance tasks are essential to ensure the correct functioning and longevity of assets. Appropriately qualified personnel can carry out various procedures to remove debris build-up from both internal and external assets.
4 of the most commonly performed tasks include:
1: Tank Cleaning
Industrial tanks need regular cleaning to ensure adequate mean time before failure (MTBF) and correct functionality. Historically, the cleaning of such tanks has been a costly and laborious process, perhaps requiring substances that are damaging to the environment. Ultra-high-pressure water jetting is non-toxic, takes far less time to implement than most other methods and is highly effective. Scheduling HPWJ cleaning that complies with industry regulations plays a huge part in achieving a longer tank lifespan and the correct operational expectations from critical assets.
2: Hydrodemolition
Using HPWJ to cut, selectively remove or demolish concrete is highly effective. In addition, HPWJ creates minimal vibration, meaning surrounding structures aren’t subjected to potentially damaging movement. There are many reasons concrete might need to be repaired or demolished. From previously applied areas around structure, chutes and hoppers to larger structures like jetties, wharves or silos in close proximity to other assets, the technique can be applied virtually anywhere – including underwater.
3: Cleaning tubes and pipes
Industrial tubing as found in heat exchangers or various process piping scenarios require cleaning to ensure an uninterrupted flow of gas, liquid, slurries or blends. HPWJ is particularly well-suited, thanks to reducing the need to deconstruct the network and the ability to in-situ clean the complete 360 degrees of a tube or pipeline. Cleaning regimes can even be programmed and remotely carried implemented to ensure improved operator safety, quality and productivity.
4: Ship and vessel renovation
Metalliferous structures – and especially those in a marine environment – will suffer from a build-up of various detritus over time. This affects structural integrity and design purpose. Marine growth, corrosion, old coatings and other debris can also be an issue, both on larger structural elements and smaller, in-situ machine parts. Water jetting is an efficient cleaning and renovation methodology. Additionally, the use of only water is extremely advantageous, as impacts due to runoff into fresh or marine waters are negated.
HPWJ is a specialised skill – one that can only be carried out by appropriately qualified personnel. Depending on requirements, maintenance managers might consider training their staff to carry out regular cleaning tasks, Alternatively, hiring contractors to do the work is another option.
Either way, it’s essential that operators are up to date with industry requirements. These include training modules, such as Using High Pressure Water Jetting Equipment – Assistant, or the more advanced Operator module.
At All-Ways Training, we offer the ultimate HPWJ courses, ranging from the entry-level Safe Use of Class A Pressure Cleaners to bespoke courses designed around your operational training needs.
Visit https://www.all-waystraining.com.au for more information.
