Research - Cleaning Mechanisms

Cleaning Mechanisms

Cleaning mechanisms for pipe cleaning robots in the industry encompass a variety of methods aimed at effectively removing debris, sediments, and contaminants from the interior surfaces of pipes. We’ve researched the most common among the industry and will be weighing each’s pros and cons to determine which cleaning mechanism is the best fit for our problem to solve.

Water Pressure

Pressurized water is an excellent mechanism for pipe cleaning robots due to several key advantages. Firstly, it's highly effective at removing various types of debris, including grease, sediment, and mineral deposits, from the inner surfaces of pipes. The force of the pressurized water helps dislodge these contaminants, leaving the pipes clean and free flowing. Additionally, it's a non-destructive cleaning method, meaning it won't damage the interior surface of the pipes during the cleaning process, thus extending their lifespan. Furthermore, pressurized water is environmentally friendly since it doesn't involve the use of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could harm the environment or contaminate water sources.

Brushes

Mechanical brushes and scrapers are another popular option, where these components are attached to the robot and physically scrub the pipe walls to remove adhered materials. While this is a popular option in the industry this mechanism would not be the best for us as we expect to be dealing with a lot of fat accumulation on the pipes, and it is expected for it to stay in the bristles and make cleaning the rest of the pipe harder.

Chemical Treatments

Chemical treatment is an effective mechanism employed in pipe cleaning robots for several reasons. Firstly, it enables targeted removal of specific types of contaminants, such as mineral deposits, rust, or biological growth, which may be difficult to dislodge using mechanical methods alone. Chemicals can break down these substances, facilitating their removal and improving overall cleaning efficiency. Additionally, chemical treatments can help prevent corrosion and extend the lifespan of the pipes by inhibiting the formation of rust or scale. Overall, it is worth exploring the possibility of integrating chemical treatment with high pressure water jetting into a pipe cleaning robot. It could possibly enhance their versatility, effectiveness, and ability to maintain the integrity of the piping systems we’ll service.