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Surface Coating Removal

Hydro stripping or surface coating removal is a specialised technique that uses high‑pressure water to safely and efficiently remove coatings, membranes, sealants, or surface build‑ups from concrete and steel structures. Unlike mechanical grinding or chiselling, hydro stripping uses controlled water pressure to lift and separate the material without causing damage to the underlying surface. This method produces no dust, reduces noise, and avoids the risk of micro‑cracking or surface contamination—making it an ideal solution for preparing structures for recoating, refurbishment, or inspection in industrial, civil, and marine environments.

The Hitech Advantage using hand lancing & robotics

For areas that require a high level of accuracy or where access is limited, Hitech Industrial Services utilises hand‑lancing techniques. Skilled operators use specialised UHP lances to target small, complex, or tight‑access sections with exceptional precision. Hand lancing is ideal for edges, corners, detailed structural elements, and locations where machinery cannot be deployed. Our fully ticketed operators maintain complete control over pressure, angle, and stand‑off distance to deliver consistent, high‑quality stripping results without the risk of substrate damage.

Robotic Hydro Stripping for Large Scale Efficiency

For larger surfaces and high‑production requirements, Hitech deploys robotic hydro‑stripping systems. These remote‑controlled units deliver uniform, repeatable stripping at high speed, making them perfect for bridges, tanks, tunnels, large concrete decks, steel structures, and industrial plant surfaces. Robotic systems reduce operator exposure, eliminate the need for manual handling in hazardous zones, and ensure a consistent finish across the full working area. They also significantly reduce shutdown times thanks to their efficiency and reliability.

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Benefits

Damage‑Free Surface Preparation

  • High‑pressure water removes coatings without introducing mechanical impact.
  • Preserves the integrity of the underlying concrete or steel substrate.
  • Ideal where maintaining structural soundness is critical.

Eliminates Dust & Minimises Silica Risk

  • Water‑based removal suppresses airborne dust and respirable silica.
  • Creates safer working conditions compared to dry mechanical methods.
  • Supports compliance with WHS and site safety requirements.

Highly Effective on Tough Coatings

  • Removes epoxies, polyurethanes, elastomeric coatings, membranes and linings.
  • Penetrates pores and surface irregularities that mechanical methods can miss.
  • Suitable for thick, aged or chemically resistant coating systems.

Robotic, repeatable results:

  • Robotic units deliver uniform pressure, speed and coverage.
  • Ensures predictable coating removal quality across large surfaces.
  • Reduces variability associated with manual methods.

Great for Marine Environments Leaves a clean, textured surface ready for:

  • Recoating or lining application
  • Waterproofing systems
  • Concrete repair or remediation works
  • Reduces the risk of adhesion failure in new coating systems.

How We Helped

View Projects

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Surface Coating Removal

Industrial Cleaning in Polyurethane Plant

Surface Coating Removal

Industrial Cleaning Sydney South West

Surface Coating Removal

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Surface Coating Removal

Paint Removal For New Coating

Surface Coating Removal

    How can we help you with surface coating removal:

    Pools & Water‑Holding Structures

    Removal of old paints, membranes and linings from swimming pools, reservoirs and water tanks without damaging substrates.

    Industrial Facility Floors

    Stripping failed coatings from concrete floors in factories, warehouses and processing plants prior to recoating or change of use.

    Tanks, Vessels & Bunds

    Removal of internal and external coatings, linings and residues to allow inspection, maintenance or relining.

    Car Parks & Trafficable Surfaces

    Removal of waterproofing systems, line marking and protective coatings from decks and ramps.

    Marine & Coastal Assets

    Stripping marine coatings from wharves, jetties, pontoons and corrosion‑affected surfaces.

    Equipment & Structural Steel

    Removal of protective coatings from steel structures, frames and industrial equipment without heat or abrasion.