Understanding the Wet Concrete Grinding Process

Concrete grinding can either be done wet or dry. There are different applications for wet and dry concrete grinding for both commercial and residential applications. But what does wet concrete grinding actually involve? Read on to learn more.

Defining wet concrete grinding

The wet process of grinding concrete has been used for a longer period, and it dates back many years. It is the time-tested method and people tend to prefer it simply because it's how they are used to doing things. The wet process gets its name from using water. Water is applied to cool the diamond tool of the grinding machine, and it also lubricates the tip of the machine to reduce friction. This is an important step towards extending the life of the machine and reducing the risk of melting.

Lubricating the tip of the machine/tool also prevents dust and their particles from being propelled into the air while digging. Workers and those near the construction site are therefore protected against inhaling potentially harmful airborne particles from the grinding process.

What does the process involve?

It is important to understand how wet grinding is carried out and its potential benefits. Depending on the specific application, wet concrete grinding will involve either spraying water on the target area or dipping the tip of the concrete grinding machine into a pool of water.

The slurry paste that is left behind can then be used for other applications such as filling in portholes in roads or other cavities present on open pathways. Some people argue that wet concrete grinding is wasteful due to the production of the wet slurry. In addition, some further argue that water should be used in a more efficient manner, especially as more people strive towards sustainability and environmental conservation.

However, wet grinding is far from a wasteful process. The water that is used is suited for the specific concreting purpose (such as driveway restoration, garage remodeling or road repair), and all excess water can be channeled to form concrete slurry. This slurry can be used to form the concrete slabs that have multiple domestic and commercial applications. From constructing kerbs to lining pathways, the applications of concrete slabs are extensive in everyday use.

More efficient processes are also being established in wet concrete grinding to ensure that the process remains efficient, cost-effective and reliable. One of those applications is the channeling of water into an intake reservoir to minimize wastage and promote recycling.