Using the abrasive water cutting method for demolition

Date January 2009

Used equipment abrasive water jet equipment

Special features work in confined spaces and a high risk environment (zone 1: high explosion risk)

During regular tank cleaning and inspection assignment an uncomfortable and risky problem was discovered by the client. The first bottom plate had been damaged and may have been leaking for several years. This ‘ghost tank’ also has a second bottom plate which was separated by a layer of sand which was contaminated with oil. In a situation such as this, traditional hot work is not an option and a cold cutting method needs to be implemented. For this job, water cutting is one of the best methods to use for cutting up the two bottom plates. Our team cut 390 meters of 6 to 12 mm steel bottom plates and completed the job within 10 days. In due course the tank will be raised and the plates will be removed. Finally, the main contractor will install a complete new set of bottom plates.