Water jetting systems for rock cutting and excavation

The right system is the one matched to your rock and site: correct pressure, flow rate, nozzle setup and mounting. Rock condition, cutting depth and access decide the configuration. Riggers Pumps builds skid, trailer and vehicle-mounted units with triplex plunger pumps, so share the rock type, job and site details and we will recommend a setup.

Pressure depends on rock hardness, cutting depth and the type of excavation. Lighter cutting and surface removal work at the lower end of the range, while hard rock and deeper cuts need higher-pressure systems. Flow matters too, because it carries cut material away. We size both together once we know the rock and the job.

In many jobs, yes. Water jetting is used as a non-explosive alternative where controlled cutting and low vibration matter, such as urban sites, foundations near existing structures and tunnels. Whether it can fully replace blasting depends on rock type, volume to be removed and site conditions, which we review before recommending a system.

Water jetting works on many rock and hard-material applications, but results vary. Effectiveness depends on rock hardness, structure and fracture characteristics, along with the pressure, flow and nozzle design used. For very hard or massive rock, expect slower progress or a higher-pressure setup. A trial or detailed site description helps confirm suitability.

For trenching, a skid or trailer-mounted unit with controlled nozzles and flexible hoses suits precise cuts with little disturbance to surrounding ground. For tunnelling and underground work, an electric or hydraulic-driven unit with a flexible lance arrangement and controlled pressure is preferred, because it gives safer operation and lower vibration in confined spaces.

Choose electric where a stable power supply is available, such as fixed tunnelling or plant sites; it is quieter and simpler to run indoors or underground. Choose diesel for outdoor, remote and mobile excavation work where the unit must run independently. Hydraulic drive is also available where a suitable hydraulic power source exists on site.

Yes. Water jetting removes concrete and asphalt in road work and demolition when the system is selected correctly for the material, thickness and job condition. It removes material without the impact of breakers, which reduces vibration on surrounding structures. Tell us the area, depth to remove and site access for a suitable recommendation.

Send the rock or material type, the job (trenching, tunnelling, foundation, concrete removal), expected cutting depth, preferred power source (electric, diesel or hydraulic), mounting needs, water availability and whether water recovery is required. Photos or a short site description help. With these, Riggers Pumps can recommend pressure, flow, nozzles and a suitable configuration.

High pressure jets can cause serious injury, so operators need training, protective equipment and a clear exclusion zone. Use correctly rated hoses, lances and fittings, and check them before each shift. Remote-controlled operation keeps people away from the cutting face in high-risk or hard-to-reach areas. We provide training and guidance with our systems.