L’hydrodémolition permet un retrait contrôlé du béton dans le cadre du projet d’élargissement du port de Liverpool

Corecut Ltd, a UK specialist, is introducing hydrodemolition techniques as part of the Seaforth Passage widening project at the Port of Liverpool. The first robotic AQUA CUTTER Evolution 710V unit from Swedish manufacturer Aquajet Systems AB has been deployed to accelerate construction, eliminate the need for complex scaffolding, and facilitate concrete removal in a challenging marine environment.

About the role

Corecut Ltd, a family-owned business based in Broxburn, East Lothian, Scotland, is playing a crucial role in the preparation works for the widening of the Gladstone Lock entrance and adjacent quay infrastructure at the Port of Liverpool, managed by Peel Ports. The project involves the expansion of the Seaforth Passage and Liverpool docks to accommodate larger next-generation cargo ships.

The company specializes in diamond drilling, concrete sawing, and controlled demolition, with a highly skilled team of over 50 CSCS-qualified operators across the UK. Corecut recently invested in an Aqua Cutter 710V Evolution to expand its service offerings, complementing its existing concrete drilling and sawing capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Operate the AQUA CUTTER Evolution 710V robotic hydrodemolition unit for controlled concrete removal in marine environments.
• Perform cable sawing and hydrodemolition to dismantle existing service culverts and prepare for new infrastructure installation.
• Remove large sections of concrete (up to 34 tonnes per lift) from confined spaces without damaging reinforcement bars.
• Work remotely and safely from quay walls, including areas below the waterline, using the robot’s extension arm and protective hood.
• Collaborate with project engineers to ensure precise and efficient concrete removal in line with project specifications.
• Maintain equipment and adhere to safety protocols in a high-traffic maritime environment.

Requirements

• Experience in hydrodemolition, diamond drilling, or concrete sawing.
• Proficiency in operating robotic hydrodemolition equipment, such as the Aqua Cutter 710V Evolution.
• CSCS qualification and relevant certifications for working in construction and marine environments.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and challenging conditions, including below waterline.
• Strong understanding of controlled demolition techniques to preserve structural integrity.
• Experience with high-pressure water systems (1,000–2,500 bar) is advantageous.

Skills

• Operational expertise with the AQUA CUTTER 710V Evolution or similar hydrodemolition robots.
• Knowledge of cable sawing techniques for large-scale concrete removal.
• Ability to interpret engineering plans and work within precise tolerances.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt to dynamic project conditions, such as tidal windows and restricted access.
• Commitment to safety and adherence to industry best practices in demolition and marine construction.

Project Details

The Seaforth Passage widening project, awarded to Farrans Construction for €9 million, involves expanding the 40-meter-wide passage to 60 meters to improve vessel maneuverability and reduce turnaround times. Key tasks include:

• Rerouting electrical and water services via a new 120-meter U-shaped steel culvert (1,020 mm diameter) containing HDPE water pipes, 33 kV and 11 kV cables, and port communications.
• Controlled demolition of existing service culverts using hydrodemolition and cable sawing to avoid vibrations and structural damage.
• Removal of over 260 tonnes of concrete in 14 lifts, with depths up to 3.5 meters and widths of 3.5 meters.
• Installation of a new quay wall and demolition of the existing wall upon project completion (expected December 2014).

The AQUA CUTTER 710V Evolution’s versatility, including its 3D-positioning head and independent track movement, enabled Corecut to work efficiently in tight spaces and below the waterline without additional temporary works.