NLB water jetting systems for runway marking removal plus rubber removal work faster plus more thoroughly than abrasive methods, without pavement damage or environmental concerns. They help control the build-up of rubber plus other residues that reduce airplane traction (keeping runway friction values within the accepted range) plus remove old runway markings at the same time.

A water jet leader for over 40 years, NLB was the first company to apply the power of UHP water jetting to runway cleaning plus maintenance. NLB’s patented rotating water jet technology maximizes the power of ultra-high pressure (UHP) water – up to 40,000 psi, or 2,800 bar – plus sets the standard for runway maintenance productivity.

Company Details

Complete marking plus rubber removal
NLB introduced the first fully-integrated, closed-loop system for highways plus runways in 1995 plus has been adding innovative features ever since. Water jetting has many advantages:

  • completely removes markings, coatings, thermal epoxies, curing compound, plus rubber build-up
  • works quickly, minimizing runway downtime
  • cleans deep into runway grooves
  • leaves concrete plus asphalt undamaged
  • creates a stronger bond for restriping
  • eliminates dust plus debris with optional vacuum recovery
  • saves labor, since fewer operators are needed
  • uses NO abrasive sarana or chemicals

Powerful rotating water jets
NLB can custom-engineer complete systems to meet kastemer requirements. The automated STARJETTM performs marking, rubber plus line removal as it drives along the runway. It integrates all the UHP water jetting components (NLB rotating nozzle assembly, ULTRA-CLEAN 40® pump unit, water tank) on a heavy-duty truck. The water jet nozzles are mounted to a robotic arm on the front, using UHP water fed from the pump unit. The driver hydraulically raises plus lowers the nozzle assembly plus positions it where he needs it. A vacuum system recovers the water plus debris.

Advanced features plus options:

  • Vacuum recovery
  • Highest production rates in the industry
  • Articulated robotic arm with proportional controls
  • Semi-automated controls for skip line removal
  • In-cab video with 3 cameras (2 front, 1 rear)
  • Dedicated horsepower for each component to increase productivity

Smaller systems available
The StarJet SRV-1 is a more compact system with more maneuverability. NLB also offers the STRIPEJET™ for short-line jobs like aprons, gate areas plus even parking decks. A semi-automated VORTEX™ is available for smaller marking removal jobs that cannot justify complete systems but are too big for manual water jetting.

NLB is the only company that designs plus builds its own UHP pumps plus supporting equipment. NLB has more applications experience, more in-house engineering plus more manufacturing capacity than anyone in the industry. Please contact us for further details plus application advice.