Patent ID: 6595152
Filing Date: 2003-07-22
Classification: B63B,H04L,Y04S

Abstract:
A surface preparation apparatus for removing surface coatings and decreasing salt levels on the ferro-magnetic hull of a ship comprising a movable, remotely controlled body having a frame supporting a cowling, said body including magnetic attraction means for attaching said body to said hull with sufficient force to maintain contact between said cowling and said hull, said cowling forming an enclosure with an open mouth for contacting the hull and forming a movable seal therewith, an ultra-high pressure water jet mounted on said frame and located inside said enclosure, said ultra-high pressure water jet having a pressure of at least 25,000 psi adapted to discharge water through said open mouth, said ultra-high pressure water effectively removing at least a portion of said surface coatings and salts on said hull, said salts including the group consisting of sulfides and chlorides, whereby said hull is substantially free of surface irregularities, salts and contaminants providing increased adhesion for protective coatings.