Some vehicles are used in mines. One such vehicle is generally known as a mine scoop. This versitile vehicle has a low profile for mobility within the low-overhead mine tunnels beyond the area generally known as the cross-cut.
The mine scoop has a hydraulic system and as most vehicles, has areas of exposed grease, oil and other moist substances.
Coal dust is prevalent in the atmosphere of the mine shafts. This highly abrasive, fine dust adheres to moist areas on the mine scoop such as around hydraulic lines where hydraulic fluid may have leaked. The coal dust not only adheres to these moist areas but packs and builds a substantial deposit. As a result, expensive damage may occur to the hydraulic hose on the vehicle unless these coal dust deposits are periodically removed.
The existance of the highly explosive atmosphere of the mine beyond the cross-cut requires strong safety measures. For example, cleaning of equipment in this area is usually only done with water. To clean effectively, the scoop must be brought to a less hazardous area where strong cleaning solutions may be used in connection with high pressure cleaning equipment. Portable cleaning equipment is available but, since it is electrically powered, it cannot be used in the areas having a highly explosive atmosphere.
Contamination problems attributed to coal dust are not limited to vehicles but also may do damage to tools and other equipment used in the mine. Cleaning of all such equipment is required.
In view of the above, it would be advantageous to provide a washing device using water and detergent under high pressure for cleaning vehicles and other equipment which overcomes the problems associated with the prior art.