Abstract
Aim: To ensure the safety of people during rescue operations who are engaged with the removal of rubble from destroyed buildings.
Introduction: There are a large number of approaches used in dismantling and demolishing concrete structures during rescue operations. These include: explosives, pneumatic and hydraulic equipment, and petrol power cutters. Each of the known methods, in addition to advantages, has disadvantages. Therefore, there is a need to develop new and effective methods of dismantling and demolishing concrete structures. The authors propose utilization of an electro-hydraulic approach based on the use of plasma energy, which is generated when an electrical discharge occurs in a receptacle filled with water. A concrete structure is perforated with cylindrical holes, which are then filled with water. Special electrodes are inserted into the holes. After the insertion of special electrodes an electrical discharge is generated. This leads to the formation of an expanding plasma. Induced shock waves combined with water cause a mechanical stress to the structure being demolished. To achieve this goal it was necessary to address the following: – Perform an analysis of possible alternative devices, bearing in mind the purpose – Develop and prototype elements of the device – Produce and assemble elements of the device and test the laboratory model . – Analyze results of laboratory tests, eliminate identified defects, refine and adjust electric circuit and construction of the device. – Finalise a working model of the device and perform field trials.
Conclusions: The developed device may be used to break up standard bricks and building structures. Power of the device can vary, depending on the size of the structure, which is being dismantled. An industrial sized device may be transported by a vehicle with a light duty chassis.
Relevance in practice: Protection of life and health of people, near to or buried under rubble. Ability to demolish bulky concrete structures. Elimination of harmful substance emissions. Avoidance of impact from shock and acoustic waves, flying debris and ability to set a course for a breach in a wall.
Keywords: electric thermal conductor explosion, electrohydraulic effect, electrical discharge technique, plasma, shock wave
Type of article: original scientific article