Hydrodemolition is a modern, efficient method for removing damaged or unwanted Concrete from structures and old Concrete elements without harming the steel reinforcement or the surrounding areas. Unlike jackhammers and mechanical breakers, hydrodemolition uses ultra-high-pressure water jets to fragment and wash away degraded Concrete while leaving sound material intact. This makes it ideal for bridge repairs, car parks, water tanks and any job where precision matters.
Why choose hydrodemolition?
Hydrodemolition is selective, safe and environmentally friendlier than mechanical methods. The water jet reaches into the pores and cracks of Concrete, breaking bonds and removing loose material without causing microcracks in the remaining Concrete or heat damage. Operators can control the depth accurately, so only the deteriorated zones are removed. This reduces waste, saves time and results in a better surface for new repairs or overlays.
How the process works?
First, engineers survey the structure and mark the areas to remove. A temporary containment for water and slurry is arranged, plus filtration or settlement tanks to treat run-off. Hydrodemolition equipment — either robotic arms, remote-controlled carriages or handheld lances — is set up and the pump is primed to produce ultra-high pressures. The water jet is then directed at the Concrete, breaking the matrix and flushing away the debris. Recycled water or properly treated run-off is commonly reused or discharged in line with environmental rules.
Types of hydrodemolition equipment
There are three common types of equipment:
- Robotic hydrodemolition units: ideal for large, repetitive tasks such as bridge decks.
- Track-mounted carriages: for flat slabs and large surfaces.
- Hand-held lances: used for localised work or awkward corners.
Manufacturers such as Conjet and Aquajet have led development of robotic systems, while specialist contractors operate fleets of pumps, robots and treatment plants to deliver turnkey services.
Leading Tools and Equipment Manufacturers
Several international and UK-based companies supply hydrodemolition machines, pumps, and accessories:
Conjet AB (Sweden) – Known for advanced robotic hydrodemolition systems such as the Conjet Robot 557 and Robot 367.
Aquajet Systems (Sweden) – Makers of the Aqua Cutter series, featuring automated depth control and precision targeting.
Jetstream of Houston (USA) – Supplies high-pressure water jetting systems and nozzles for Concrete removal.
Falch GmbH (Germany) – Offers a wide range of professional water-jetting equipment and surface preparation tools.
Calder (UK) – Specialises in ultra-high-pressure water jet pumps and skid-mounted systems for industrial use.
Hammelmann (Germany) – Produces robust high-pressure pumps used in large-scale hydrodemolition and industrial cleaning.
Specialist Hydrodemolition Contractors
When it comes to on-site Concrete removal and repair, several reputable firms operate across the UK and Europe:
Freyssinet (Aquaforce) – Provides complete hydrodemolition and Concrete repair services for bridges and tunnels.
Corejet Ltd – UK-based specialists offering robotic and manual hydrodemolition solutions with full water treatment systems.
CCS Pneco – Known for large-scale infrastructure and industrial Concrete removal projects.
Ammlee Group – Provides robotic hydrodemolition and Concrete surface preparation services.
Concrete Repairs Ltd (CRL) – Offers Concrete repair, cathodic protection, and hydrodemolition for highways and marine structures.
Advantages over traditional methods
Hydrodemolition preserves the reinforcing steel, improves bond between old and new Concrete and produces a rough, clean surface ready for repair materials. It is often faster than many mechanical methods and reduces vibration and noise on site. For structures with embedded services, thin overlays or sensitive surroundings, hydrodemolition can be the most practical solution.
Common applications
Hydrodemolition is widely used for bridge deck refurbishment, car park slab repairs, marine structures, reservoirs, tunnels and concrete removal prior to sprayed Concrete (shotcrete) or new overlays — or when replacing sections of existing Concrete.
Health, safety and environmental considerations
Although hydrodemolition reduces dust compared with mechanical breaking, it produces a slurry that must be contained and treated. Contractors set up settlement tanks, filtration and sometimes pH correction to protect the environment. Operators wear PPE and remote operation reduces manual exposure. All high-pressure water work requires strict safety procedures and competent operators.
Preparing for a hydrodemolition project
A good survey is essential. Look for corrosion, delamination and visible deterioration. Determine access, fall protection, water supply and disposal routes. Specify the removal depth and finish criteria — whether you need all loose Concrete removed back to sound material or a partial depth cut. Include quality checks such as hammer-sounding, chain-drag tests and visual inspection.
Costs and timeframes
Initial costs may be higher than hiring a simple breaker, but hydrodemolition often saves money by reducing remedial work, waste disposal and downtime. Contractors usually price by square metre and by the depth and complexity of removal. In many cases the improved bonding surface and reduced follow-on repairs mean a lower life-cycle cost.
Choosing a contractor and equipment suppliers
Pick an experienced hydrodemolition specialist with the right kit and environmental controls. Genuine companies that provide hydrodemolition services or equipment include Conjet, Aquajet, Freyssinet (via Aquaforce), Corejet/Corecut, Ammlee Group and CCS Pneco. These firms operate internationally or across the UK and have a track record on bridge and infrastructure projects. Check references and ask for method statements, environmental controls and evidence of operator training.
Remember: Concrete is durable but not invincible. Regular inspection of bridge Concrete, slab and water-retaining Concrete elements helps decide when hydrodemolition is the right choice.
Conclusion
Hydrodemolition is transforming the way we remove and repair Concrete in modern construction. By using high-pressure water jets instead of heavy mechanical tools, it offers a cleaner, safer, and more precise solution for removing deteriorated Concrete. This technique not only protects the reinforcement steel but also delivers a perfectly rough surface for new Concrete or repair materials to bond strongly.
FAQs
Q: Will hydrodemolition damage the reinforcement?
A: No — one of the main benefits of hydrodemolition is that it removes softened or deteriorated concrete without harming the reinforcing steel when carried out correctly.
Q: Is hydrodemolition noisy?
A: It is generally less noisy and produces less vibration than pneumatic breakers, though pumps and water flow generate some noise.
Q: Can hydrodemolition be used indoors?
A: Yes, with appropriate containment, water treatment and ventilation. Contractors must manage slurry and wet surfaces carefully.
Q: How long do repairs last after hydrodemolition?
A: When carried out and followed by proper repair materials and good workmanship, repairs last as long as — and often longer than — those produced by traditional methods because of the superior bond achieved.
Q: Who supplies the machines?
A: Manufacturers such as Conjet and Aquajet and equipment suppliers like Calder provide hydrodemolition robots, pumps and accessories.