| 摘要 |
Apparatus is disclosed for drying extensive surfaces, comprising: means for transporting the entire apparatus across the surface (2), and an air knife (20) directed at the surface (22), the air knife comprising one or more nozzles; and means (56) for delivering air to the nozzle(s) at a high volume flow rate and low pressure. In a preferred arrangement, the or each nozzle has an outlet comprising an elongate slot. The apparatus may be used to clear surface water from roads, or sports areas before laying tarmac or markings, or for drying pitches whether grass or synthetic. Other uses may well occur to the reader. In another arrangement for drying slots or grooves in a road surface before sealing with tarmac, the nozzle is preferably not in the form of an elongate slot, e.g. is square or round in cross section. It is possible that the surface will remain damp if treated only with the air knife and, against this possibility, a much preferred embodiment of the invention includes an arrangement to heat the air supplied to the nozzle. |
