Lining material removal system and method

An apparatus for removing lining material from a cylindrical inside surface of a lined structure, the apparatus comprising:

• a locating assembly adapted to being received within the structure and being moved along the length of the structure, the locating assembly including a securing assembly that secures the locating assembly within the structure in a manner that allows the locating assembly to be intentionally moved by an operator;
• a rotatable nozzle assembly defining an axis of rotation and being connected to the locating assembly, the nozzle assembly comprising one or more nozzle lines each terminating in a nozzle head that rotates about the axis of rotation, the nozzle assembly being configured in a manner that each nozzle head is suitably spaced from the lining material to be able to deliver a jet of fluid under pressure to the lining material;
• a nozzle rotation means for rotating the nozzle assembly;
• and
• a conduit means in fluid communication with the nozzle assembly suitable for delivering a flow of fluid to the nozzle assembly under sufficient pressure to cut the lining material lining the structure.