ARC 1600® – Advanced Airport Runway Cleaner from SMETS Technology™ GmbH
Introduction
The ARC 1600® Airport Runway Cleaner, developed by SMETS Technology™ GmbH (Germany), is a high-performance solution for maintaining safe and efficient airport operations. Designed for medium to large airports, the ARC 1600® combines ultra-high-pressure water technology with an advanced vacuum recovery system, ensuring thorough removal of rubber deposits, paint markings, and other surface contaminants — while protecting the pavement structure.
With its balance of power, working width, and durability, the ARC 1600® is one of the most versatile and reliable runway cleaners on the market.
Key Features of the ARC 1600®
1. Surface-friendly high-pressure cleaning
- Water jet pressure up to 3,000 bar.
- Nozzle rotation speeds up to 400 km/h for maximum efficiency.
- Cleans rubber deposits without damaging lights, joints, concrete, or asphalt.
- Minimal water consumption: only 1.4 liters per m², reducing operational costs.
2. Efficient single-head system
- One cleaning head with 24 hardened steel nozzles.
- Longer nozzle lifespan: 75–100 hours compared to the 15–25 hours of conventional sapphire nozzles.
- Reduced maintenance and replacement costs.
3. Powerful suction & recovery system
- Uses an industrial impeller fan (maintenance-free) instead of vacuum pumps.
- Ensures immediate collection of water and debris, keeping the surface dry and ready for use.
4. Large stainless-steel tanks
- Equipped with the largest clean and wastewater tanks in its class.
- Allows up to 4 hours of continuous operation.
- All tanks and machine compartments are made of stainless steel, ensuring long-term durability and corrosion resistance.
5. Smart control and reporting
- Fully operated via an in-cabin touchscreen.
- Real-time monitoring and GPS data logging for precise reporting.
- Easy operation with automated safety features (automatic pressure shut-off, tank level monitoring, dry-run pump protection).
Benefits of Choosing ARC 1600®
- Higher efficiency – Fewer cleaning passes and reduced downtime for runways.
- Lower operating costs – Durable nozzles, low water consumption, and minimal maintenance.
- Maximum safety – Restores runway friction to prevent hydroplaning and improve landing safety.
- Eco-friendly – Operates with pure water (no chemicals), while recovering debris and wastewater on-board.
- Long-term durability – Stainless steel construction ensures reliable performance even in harsh airport environments.
Applications
- Runway rubber removal – Eliminates heavy rubber deposits in touchdown zones.
- Paint & line removal – Removes thermoplastic and painted markings quickly and cleanly.
- Surface retexturing – Restores pavement texture and friction levels for safe aircraft operations.
- Taxiway & apron cleaning – Keeps all airport surfaces clear of contaminants and safe for use.
Conclusion
The ARC 1600® Airport Runway Cleaner is a balanced, high-performance solution that combines powerful cleaning technology with eco-friendly operation and long-term durability. It is the ideal choice for medium to large airports seeking to enhance runway safety, reduce operational downtime, and lower maintenance costs.
As the official distributor of SMETS Technology™ GmbH in Vietnam, Pan Trading JSC is committed to delivering European-quality equipment and professional after-sales service to help airports maintain world-class safety standards.