A combined sewer cleaning truck (sewer jetting and vacuum vehicle) is multi-purpose truck-mounted equipment for clearing blockages and cleaning pipes in municipal and industrial sewer networks. This article explains how the two main systems work together, key components, and common options.
Basic operating principle
Combined units run high-pressure jetting and vacuum in sequence or together. Jetting breaks up debris; vacuum removes it so material does not re-accumulate downstream in the same pass.
1. High-pressure water jet system
Water from the clean-water tank is boosted by a high-pressure pump (typically 100–250 bar) through specialised nozzles. The jet shatters grease, sand, gravel and foreign objects and pushes debris toward the manhole for extraction.
- Breaking: High pressure fragments deposits.
- Transport: Flow moves debris toward the vacuum inlet.
- Wall cleaning: Restores hydraulic capacity of the line.
Flow rates are commonly about 150–425 L/min depending on the model. Nozzle types (forward, rear, rotating) are chosen for the blockage.
2. Vacuum suction system
Shattered waste is drawn into the debris tank by a vacuum pump (often about 4,100–9,000 m³/h). Benefits:
- Immediate removal — less re-settling in the line.
- Handles liquid, slurry and solids.
- ~270° suction boom for precise positioning at the manhole.
Power take-off (PTO)
Both pumps are usually driven from the truck engine via PTO. Common layouts: auxiliary gearbox + shaft, belt drive for low vibration, or full hydraulic drive on newer chassis.
Optional equipment
- Remote control — safer working distance.
- Touchscreen panel — pump pressure, vacuum and tank level.
- Water recycling — filtered reuse to save fresh water.
- Odor filter — neighbourhood comfort.
- CCTV — internal pipe inspection.
- Manhole lifter — heavy cover handling.
Conclusion
Combined sewer cleaners unite jetting and vacuum on one platform for efficient maintenance. Teknik Tanker builds units from 5 to 20 tons to ISO 9001 and TSE requirements. For a project-specific offer, use our quote request form.
