perforations of concrete

[brandusa]

Hi,

Is it possible to use water jetting to make holes (about 24" diameter) in a concrete wall?
Assuming the holes are structurally engineered so that the wall preserves its integrity, what would be the pressure and tools needed to perforate the concrete in specific areas while not affecting the reinforcing at all?
The wall could be between 6" and 12" thick.

I appreciate your input.

Thanks,
Brandusa

[vandamja]

If you are asking if it is possible to cut a hole and leave the rebar intact then yes, it would be possible.  The water jet really erodes the cement in the concrete, meaning the that edge of the hole would be somewhat rough.  The ideal way to do it would be with an abrasive water jet cutting system.  This would provide a perfect hole, but would cut through any rebar in the concrete.

Hydrodemolition is typically carried out at pressures of about 20,000 psi with flows of around 5o gpm.  You can accomplish it with less water, but the production rates would go down.