Page 1
RootWave Pro Model Nos. covered: PRO-001-3, PRO-002-3, TRA-001-3, TRA-002-3, APL-001-3, ETD-001-3, ETD-002-3, ETD-003-3, ETD-004-3, ETD-005-3, GRW-001-3, GRW-002-3, CAB-001-3 and CAB-002-3 User Guide English Original instructions Read and follow all instructions and safety precautions in this User Guide. Failure to do so will invalidate the warranty and may cause death or serious injury.
This document provides important safety information and instructions for using RootWave Pro. RootWave Pro can be used to treat invasive weeds such as Japanese Knotweed, Giant Hogweed, Himalayan Balsam and Ragwort. RootWave Pro suppresses the growth of weeds by applying heat to the cells, causing lysis.
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2013 Product improvements RootWave’s philosophy is to continually improve its products. As a result, improvements are made from time. This user guide will be updated for significant improvements or any that affect safety.
Training ....................64 Changing the fuse................64 Accessories and replacement parts ..........65 Troubleshooting ................66 RootWave Pro does not activate ..........66 Treatment effect seems inadequate ..........70 The generator stops working or won’t start ........ 71 RootWave Pro User Guide...
Safety information This section tells you how to use RootWave Pro safely. Ensure that you comply with all relevant local health and safety policy and legislation when you are using RootWave Pro. The following symbols are marked on the equipment: Indicates a dangerous voltage.
Page 8
Do not modify. Read the user guide. RootWave takes a thorough and proactive approach to safety in the design of its products, labelling and training for safe use. If you have experienced any accidents, incidents or near misses while using RootWave Pro, please contact your RootWave Pro supplier.
If you contact RootWave about your product you may be asked to provide a model number and unique serial number. The model and serial number of the complete system is affixed to the Power Module.
Page 10
General To avoid death or serious injury from electric shock: • RootWave Pro uses hazardous high voltages to kill weeds and if used incorrectly can cause death to humans or animals. Training course and exam must be completed by all operators before using RootWave Pro.
Page 11
Check all parts of the RootWave Pro system for damage each time before use. If any parts of RootWave Pro appear to be damaged, do not use, contact your RootWave Pro supplier.
Page 12
Magnetic fields can be caused by arcs formed between the treatment electrode and the target weed. Do not operate RootWave Pro if you wear an electronic medical device or if there is a possibility of people coming within 5 metres of the machine.
Page 13
• Impact to the system may cause damage. When transporting RootWave Pro in a vehicle, secure it to prevent it from sliding while the vehicle is in motion. • Hazardous voltages near water can cause death by electric shock or electric shock drowning. If there is activity in the water and within 50 metres of the target weed or Treatment Return such as swimmers, divers or boats.
Page 14
Treatment Return, must wear dielectric insulating boots. • RootWave Pro and its safety systems are designed to operate as a standalone circuit i.e. from a generator. Do not use a mains power source as in certain fault modes this may lead to hazardous voltages being propagated via the mains supply.
Page 15
• The Safety Earth must be fully inserted into the ground for RootWave Pro to function correctly. Only treat in pots and troughs if the Safety Earth can be inserted into the ground (not into the soil in the pot or trough).
Page 16
Treatment Return in a position that places it greater than 10 metres from the target weeds. - Approach the weed from a direction that puts the Treatment Return and Safety Earth in your line of sight so that you can look for indications of overheating. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 17
Do not wear headphones and listen to audio as this can cause loss of concentration. RootWave Pro does not require you to wear ear defenders, but it is OK to do so if required by other equipment that you are using with RootWave Pro.
Page 18
30 cm tall, in good condition and with a rugged sole. Tuck the hem of your trousers or outerwear into your boots. Do not use RootWave Pro in bare feet, sandals, flip flops, shoes, work boots or normal Wellington boots. Do not attempt to treat weeds close to your feet.
Page 19
- Regularly check if the ground adjacent to the Treatment Return is warm to the touch, and if so re-site the Treatment Return before continuing to use RootWave Pro. - You should be especially vigilant in dry or warm conditions or periods of high duty.
• Water and condensation can conduct electricity. Store RootWave Pro in a dry location, for example inside a vehicle or building. Do not store RootWave Pro in wet, humid, condensing or foggy conditions. Caution • Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in moderate injury, damage the product, or lead to loss of data.
Page 21
• Treating too close to cables can cause interference in cables which can corrupt signals or prevent receiving equipment from working properly. Do not treat within 1 metre of sheathed or insulated cables above, on or under the ground. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 22
To avoid moderate injury from manual handling, slips trips or falls: • While the Treatment Lance is lightweight with an ergonomic design, operating RootWave Pro for long periods may cause fatigue. Use the belt hook and the lanyard to reduce strain. If experiencing discomfort stop immediately.
Overview of RootWave Pro This section provides an overview of RootWave Pro and lists the components. About RootWave Pro RootWave Pro treats weeds by forcing electric current though the weed using a high voltage. The current flow causes a rapid rise in temperature which damages the weed's cellular structure above and below the ground.
Return blade is inserted into the ground with the mallet before the body is screwed on. GRW-001-3 Extraction handle also provided. RootWave Pro cannot activate unless this is inserted into the ground. 5 Short Connects the Power Module to the Treatment Treatment Return.
Page 25
Only trained operators should have access to the key. Store the key in a secure location. 9 Safety Earth Part of the high voltage safety system. RootWave Pro cannot activate unless the Safety GRW-002-3 Earth is inserted into the ground. RootWave Pro User Guide...
• Safety Earth GRW-002-3 Power Module TRA-001-3 or TRA-002-3 The Power Module creates high-voltage electricity, and provides some of the controls for RootWave Pro. Additional controls are provided on the Treatment Lance. Figure 2 Power Module interfaces RootWave Pro User Guide...
(red). 11 24V fuse Caps for accessing internal fuses. 12 230V fuse See section ‘Changing the fuse’ on page 64 for more information including safety information RootWave Pro User Guide...
Use the Treatment Lance to target treatment at the weed's stem. You can select a different power level depending on the types of weeds being treated. You must install the Electrode Module before the Treatment Lance can be used. Figure 3 Treatment Lance features RootWave Pro User Guide...
Red flash Flashes in red when a reset is required either before first use or after safe stop has been activated. Green Lights up when ready to activate and when activating. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Table 6 Example voltage settings and treatment duration Weed height before 1-20 cm 20-80 cm 80-250 cm trimming Stem diameter 0-1 cm 1-2 cm >2 cm Typical voltage setting Medium High Typical treatment 1 second 5 seconds 10 seconds duration RootWave Pro User Guide...
Triggers The Treatment Lance has two triggers. Use both triggers to activate the Treatment Lance, and either or both triggers to activate Safe Stop. Figure 4 Treatment Lance trigger positions RootWave Pro User Guide...
(if all other systems are on and position reset button has been pressed) Either or both triggers Safe Stop is activated and the are fully pressed Treatment Lance cannot be activated until it is reset RootWave Pro User Guide...
Electrode Module. See section ‘Shrouded Electrode Module’ on page 43 for information on use of this module. Contact your RootWave Pro supplier for alternative electrode formats including ‘hook’ ETD-002-3, ‘T bar’ ETD-003-3, ‘Arrow’ ETD-004-3, ETD-005-3 ‘Shrouded Electrode Module’ and replacement Electrode Modules if yours is showing signs of wear.
Treatment Lance. It completes the electrical circuit through the weed back to the Power Module. The Treatment Return, including its blade, must be fully installed into the ground before treating weeds. Figure 6 Treatment Return, Mallet and Extraction Handle RootWave Pro User Guide...
The Safety Earth provides a protective conductor to earth to ensure that you are protected from an electric shock should a fault occur. Like the Treatment Return, the Safety Earth must be fully inserted into the ground before treating weeds. Figure 7 Safety Earth RootWave Pro User Guide...
Getting started If RootWave Pro was shipped to you in a crate, then carefully unpack each of the items and check against the items listed in ‘Table 1’ on page 24. • We recommend that you keep the box that RootWave Pro was delivered in, for storage and transportation.
Additional equipment The equipment below is needed and not provided with RootWave Pro: Table 8 Additional equipment needed Equipment Purpose Generator Provides power to the Power Module. RootWave Pro requires a generator capable of producing 230 V single-phase between 50-60 Hz and a power output of between 7.5 kVA and 10 kVA.
For operating on loose, steep or uneven as required ground. Mobile phone with To support lone working. alarm / timer and GPS location Other PPE As required by local working practices and procedures and risk assessment. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Safely load and secure the following items onto the vehicle before leaving for the treatment site: • RootWave Pro system, including: Treatment Lance (with Electrode Module fitted), lanyard, Treatment Return, Short Treatment Cable, Long Treatment Cable, Power Module (with padlock fitted) and Safety Earth.
Check that the vehicle and generator have sufficient fuel. Collect the padlock key for the Power Module power isolator switch. If planning to treat near water ensure risk of harmful impact to aquatic life has been discussed with waterway owner. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Safety features RootWave Pro provides safety features to ensure safe operation. Live electrode warning light The Treatment Lance has an indicator light located on the shaft which lights up in red when the Treatment Lance electrode is activated. The electrode is at a hazardous voltage when this light is...
Stop button in fully. To reset the Power Module after an emergency stop, release the emergency stop by turning it clockwise. RootWave Pro can then be started up normally. The emergency stop is a critical safety feature that should be regularly checked.
See section ‘Setting up the Treatment Lance’ on page 36 for installation of the Shrouded Electrode Module. Contact your RootWave Pro supplier for a replacement Shrouded Electrode Module if yours is showing signs of wear. Figure 12 Shrouded Electrode Module...
For more information see: Safety information’ on page 77 and ‘Training’ on page 64 A number of tools are available at rootwave.com/pro to support you: - Site Specific Risk Assessment – to help you to assess the risks at the treatment site and identify potential risk controls - Functional Check Protocol –...
Page 46
Put on dielectric insulating boots and any other PPE as required by local working practices and procedures. Bystanders also need to wear dielectric insulating boots if within 2.5 metres (3 paces) of a line between the treatment and the Treatment Return. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 47
- Check risk of harmful impact to aquatic life has been considered. Use the Site Specific Risk Assessment – to help you to assess the risks at the treatment site and identify potential risk controls RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 48
• Even if you’re on open ground, it may be easier to treat the weed if it has been cut down first as this may provide better visibility and access to its stem. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 49
• Once the Treatment Return has been full assembled onto the Treatment Return Blade the cables can then be connected to the Treatment Return. If the rubber mallet becomes damaged replacements are available from your RootWave Pro supplier. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 50
Treatment Return hasn’t been fully screwed onto the Treatment Return Blade, then RootWave Pro will not activate. • The blade can become blunt or burred over time. The blade can be sharpened with a metal file.
Short 7 m CAB-001-3 CAB-002-3 Figure 14 Cable Configuration Only connect the cables to the Treatment Return once it is installed in the ground. Connect the Treatment Return to the Power Module using the Short Treatment Cable. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Treatment Lance and Treatment Return Place the Treatment Lance on a dry surface. Using the generator cable, connect the Power Module to the generator. Figure 17 Connecting the generator cable to the Power Module and generator RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 53
Turn the power isolator switch on the Power Module to the 'ON' position. Confirm that the ‘Power’, ‘System’ and ‘Ready’ lights are now lit. RootWave Pro can now be used. • If the ‘Ready’ light is not lit, check that the Treatment Return and Safety Earth are fully inserted in the ground.
Page 54
Power Module 3. Check that the ‘Ready’ light (green) has turned off If the ‘Ready’ light does not turn off, do not use RootWave Pro. Shut down the system, isolate the padlock key and contact your RootWave Pro supplier. For contact information, see section ‘Contact details’ on page 3.
Page 55
Approach the weed from a direction that puts the Treatment Return, Power Module, and vehicle in your line of sight so that you can remain alert to hazards. Ensure the cable is safely out of the way. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 56
Reset button until it turns green. It is now ready to activate. Select a voltage setting, depending on the size of the weed. For more information see section ‘Voltage selector switch‘ on page 30. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 57
10. Re check your environment Check you have good visibility of the treatment area and equipment, and re check your surroundings for any hazards including people or animals. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 58
• If the generator starts to labour pause the treatment for moment to allow the generator to recover and try treating large weeds with repeated small zaps. Release both triggers on the Treatment Lance. RootWave Pro is deactivated. Weeds can be left to decompose. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 59
The reset button will flash red when safe stop has been activated. Carry the Treatment Lance with one hand and the lanyard; keep one hand free. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 60
Blade, and the spade handle down towards the ground, to catch the lip on the Treatment Return Blade and lever it out of the ground. To re install the Treatment Return see steps 4 and 5. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 61
Treatment Lance fully in (position 2) to activate Safe Stop. The reset button will flash red. Turn the power isolator switch on the Power Module to the 'OFF' position and replace padlock. Deactivate the generator's output and stop the generator. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 62
13. • Lubricants can reduce electrical conductivity. Keep Notice threads on Treatment Return Body and Blades clean and dry and don’t use grease or other lubricants. Store parts disassembled - don’t reassemble them until installation. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 63
16. Clean and check After use wipe clean with a dry cloth all components of the RootWave Pro system before storing. Wipe down the Electrode Module with an alcohol wipe to prevent the build-up of carbon on the body and around the electrode.
If you are transporting RootWave Pro, secure all components in the vehicle, ensuring they are kept dry during transport. Store all components of RootWave Pro in a clean, dry, and secure location. For more information, see ‘Specifications’ on page 74.
Accessories and replacement parts are available from your RootWave Pro supplier. If you’ve misplaced the locking screw that retains the Electrode Module in the Treatment Lance then either contact your RootWave Pro supplier or replace with M4x20mm stainless steel cap head hex screw with head diameter 7.0mm.
Troubleshooting If this section cannot solve your problem, or if you’re unsure, please contact your RootWave Pro supplier. For contact information, see section ‘Contact details’ on page 3. RootWave Pro does not activate Cause Solution Generator has Restart generator...
Page 67
For more information see page 42. Cables aren’t Turn the power properly isolator switch on plugged in. the Power Module to ‘Off’ and turn off the generator. Check all cables are properly connected. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 68
(reset light in green, flashes red but Treatment Lance can be difficult ready to activate. to see in bright sunlight). Triggers Squeeze both haven’t been triggers on squeezed to Treatment Lance middle to middle position. position. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 69
‘Off’ and turn off the generator. Allow to cool down (this may take more than an hour). Try treating with multiple shorter zaps and treating one weed at a time. If fault persists contact your RootWave Pro supplier. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Treat weeds in the spring when the ground has a higher moisture content. • Treat in the Spring for optimum results: - Ground less likely to be dry - Weed growth is younger and will take less energy to treat RootWave Pro User Guide...
Pause treatment when generator labours to allow generator recovery. Treating big mature weeds Treat large weeds with multiple that cause the generator small and controlled treatments. to labour, and then suddenly stopping, may cause the generator to cut out. RootWave Pro User Guide...
4. Connect up the system, turn on generator output and power module power isolator switch, check ‘Ready’ light comes on. If ‘Ready’ light does not come on, then contact your RootWave Pro supplier. RootWave Pro User Guide...
For contact information, see section ‘Contact details’ on page 3. Warranty RootWave Pro is supplied with a 1 year warranty as standard. The warranty period will begin on the date that RootWave Pro is shipped. You can check on your sales documentation for details of what is covered by the warranty.
32 A Frequency 55 Hz +/- 5% Power 5,000 W Standards IEC60309 Note 1 The inlet (Live) is to be individually fused and both (Live and Neutral) are filtered. Earth is to be directly Chassis bonded. RootWave Pro User Guide...
<50 ms Switch off <50 ms Switch off <10 ms (Emergency stop) Note 2 The main conversion transformer is designed to dissipate the internal heating energy of providing 5 kVA into a direct secondary side short circuit. RootWave Pro User Guide...
Measured inside the transformer core. IP ratings System operational IP40 Single system IP20 components See "Note 4" Note 4 IP rating limited by connector ports. IP rating of connectors increased through connection of mating part (cap or cable). RootWave Pro User Guide...
22 x 17 x 19 GRW-002-3 12 x 12 x23 (plus 4m cable) CAB-001-3 20m cable CAB-002-3 7m cable Diameter 10 for M8 bolt, 4 positions Figure 18 Power Module fixing holes (all dimensions in mm) RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 78
This page intentionally left blank RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 79
This page intentionally left blank RootWave Pro User Guide...
Page 81
U-UGD-PRO-001-3-E May 2022 RootWave Pro User Guide...
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Pro PRO-001-3 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers