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DOFF and Torc are both systems which can be used for cleaning surfaces such as brick and stone. Torc and DOFF systems are both used for cleaning surfaces such as brick and stone. If you want to know which is best for your applications, first you need to know how each system works and where they’re typically used.
The equipment of both cleaning systems is supplied by Stonehealth Ltd and are recommended due to its convenience and simplicity.
The DOFF cleaning system heats up water up to 150°C, creating high temperature steam. This is easily adjustable to ensure even the most difficult of marks can be removed. The DOFF system is quick and easy to use for cleaning, not to mention easily transportable from different locations.
Although it’s a form of media blasting, DOFF systems don’t actually use a high pressure, meaning they’re unlikely to damage the targeted surfaces. This also means that DOFF can be used on softer materials, such as wood and soapstone. It’s actually the high temperatures that help remove algae, paint, graffiti, limescale, oil and grease, without disturbing surfaces or structures.
Additionally, the DOFF system is eco-friendly, with a low carbon footprint, due to no water waste and reduced energy usage. The water and steam are at such high temperatures that no chemicals or cleaning products need to be used and this means that DOFF doesn’t release harmful chemicals into the environment.
The DOFF system is perfect to be used on many exterior and interior surfaces, including floors, walls, steps, pavements, concrete, stone, cladding, tile and wood! Have a read of our guide to façade cleaning using the DOFF system here to find out more.
Although DOFF cleaning is effective, it uses high temperatures which, in some cases, may not be the best for all surfaces (if used incorrectly). Torc cleaning, on the other hand, is known to be a gentler approach to cleaning, using a low water pressure and creating a gentle, swirling vortex. This effect is a result of the small amount of water, granulate and air that the Torc machine uses. Therefore, this machine is best used for applications where you’re looking to be that extra bit careful to not cause damage to surfaces and to make sure the substrate remains in its original state.
This system is an improvement of the JOS system which Stonehealth used to sell. The JOS system used 45 litres per hour, making the Torc System a more practical and environmentally friendlier cleaning system.
Torc cleaning also comes with a nozzle that will assist in cleaning many different environments and surfaces to achieve the best results.
There are many different forms of granulates that can be used with this machine, however Stonehealth have named 3 they approve of. These are Calcite, Dolomite and Unil, each of which offer their own, unique benefits. This machine is best used for removing cement and oil-based paint and limescale, as well as graffiti.
When deciding on whether to go for the DOFF system or Torc, it’s important to keep in mind what your specific applications are, including the surface which will be cleaned. While Torc machines only use 25 litres of water per hour compared to DOFF systems using 5 litres per minute, DOFF systems can be more effective on rougher materials because of the temperatures used.
To know which system is most effective and to achieve the best results for your applications, it’s always best to seek advice from professionals. CPL t/a Rainbow Restoration have 20 years of experience in effectively using these technologies in a wide range of situations, so for further information about our Torc and DOFF system cleaning services, please don’t hesitate to contact us on freephone 0800 030 4360.