The German manufacturer of machinery for rubber removal on airport runways, Weigel Hochdrucktechnik, has delivered one unit of its most recent TrackJet model, the PowerPack’09 with VacuFlex, to Trade Target. Trade Target is Weigel’s agent for Portugal and Spain and provides rubber removal, demarking and inset light cleaning services.
A Mercedes-Benz Atego has been adapted to carry the TrackJet components. Attached to the front is a module that houses innovative ultra high pressure water nozzles for the cleaning operation. The body of the vehicle has an auxiliary engine to provide the power for the high pressure pump (max. 2500bar) and the so-called VacuFlex trailer. The VacuFlex is designed to transport the clean water and simultaneously evacuate the waste water with rubber or paint residue from the pavement. The unit enables just one man to clean up to 860m²/h for almost 5.5hr, with only 9m³ of clean water (depending on the surface type and condition).
Similar equipment is already in use at London’s Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports, as well as Amsterdam/Schiphol and Brussels airport, among others. TradeTarget has been operating at Lisbon, Oporto, Faro and Madeira airports on a regular basis and 2009 is expected to be the launching year for the Spanish airports due to the logistic improvements this new unit will bring.
TradeTarget’s general manager, Júlio Figueiredo, highlighted the importance of offering their customers on the Iberian Peninsula the availability of a state-of-the-art water jetting equipment, ready to operate in just two days after their request; “We know how important it is for the airports to be able to remove rubber immediately after noticing that friction values are below certain levels. It’s a matter of safety and we are proud of offering it now,” he said.
The non-erosive TrackJet technology has been successfully applied at more than 40 major international airports. Its efficiency (99% removal) without damaging the surface micro texture, optimised operational logistics and environmental benefits (low water consumption, low fuel consumption and low residues production) are the arguments that most contributed to an impressive reference list.
Mr Figueiredo said that his company partnership agreement with the manufacturer Weigel Hochdrucktechnik grants a level of excellence on the service provided and assures total reliability. The equipment will be operated and maintained by a qualified member of Weigel’s technical staff.
The announcement brings TrackJet sales to a total of 26 units.
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