We get this question a lot. Although nearly all hydraulic hammer and hoe ram manufacturers recommend a reseal every 500 hours of operation, we have found that they can go much longer than that IF you and your operator are paying attention.
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Self-destruction begins the moment you put a hydraulic breaker in service. No hammer should go onto an excavator without being flow tested to make sure it is providing oil at the correct gallons per minute, operating pressure, and relief without exceeding allowable backpressure. If your hydraulic hammer does not receive oil from its skid steer, backhoe, or excavator carrier within these parameters, you will break demolition tools, retainers, and tie rods more frequently, and find yourself knowing your local hydraulic hammer service technician way better than you want to.
If this is within tolerances, it limits side loading on the piston and avoids seal failure and leaking. Get the tolerances from your hydraulic hammer manufacturer and check it at least once a week.
Hydraulic breaker manufacturers give minimum tool lengths to save your breaker. Each time your hammer breaks through the material, it dives forward. If the tool is too short, the dive is more likely to result in wear to the outer casing of the hoe ram when it hits the material. Even worse, the length of the tool helps to absorb vibration and heat generated at the business end. The shorter the demolition tool is, the more wear-inducing heat and vibration are transferred to the breaker itself.
You should always be checking the back head and accumulator nitrogen pressures per your hoe ram manufacturer's recommendations, but there are some concerns to watch for:
Hammer hoses that 'hop' around excessively are an early indicator that your nitrogen is low.
Low power is a good indicator that your backhead or accumulator in your hydraulic breaker needs a charge.
If the hydraulic hammer is operated when the accumulator is low, it lacks power and has no way to absorb spikes in the hydraulic system, which can result in damage to the excavator and hydraulic breaker. A low back head nitrogen charge in a nitrogen-fired hammer will cause the breaker to lack power. If power is low, the operator will be forced to work the hydraulic hammer harder, resulting in accelerated wear.
If your hoe ram is leaking, STOP! Not only will the oil wash away the chisel paste protecting the demolition tool and the bushings, but it is an indicator that the striking piston is no longer riding on its seals, but is scraping against the cylinder wall, causing damage to both components.
Always call for service advice as soon as your hydraulic hammer starts leaking!
Aside from making sure the oil supply hoses are tight at all times, make sure no fasteners are missing and get a look at the hydraulic hammer's top tie rod nuts. These four hold the hoe ram together and if one gets loose, it can cause the alignment of the backhead, cylinder, and tool holder/chuck housing to shift, which can cause the metal to metal contact inside the hydraulic breaker. On side plated hydraulic hammers with cross bolts, like our Gorilla GX series, NPK, Okada, and some others, torque should be checked with a slam wrench on a regular basis and marked with a paint pen after they are tightened so that it is easier to notice if they are loosening up.
Performing these checks on a daily basis does not require much effort, and allows you to catch minor problems before they require downtime at a local hydraulic hammer shop. As with everything that touches dirt or rock, a conscientious operator that is trained what to watch for is your best asset to preserve your demolition and excavation equipment.
If you have further questions, our Gorilla Team stands ready to answer them! Give us a call at 1 (888) 814 ' or fill out an online form.
Last Updated on May 28, by Ossian Muscad
Hydraulic hammers, also known as hydraulic breakers, are essential tools in the construction and demolition industries. Renowned for their power and efficiency, these robust machines attach to excavators and other heavy equipment to deliver high-impact blows, enabling the rapid breaking up of concrete, asphalt, and other hard materials. Whether you're demolishing old structures, preparing foundations, or undertaking roadworks, understanding the mechanics, applications, and maintenance of hydraulic hammers can significantly enhance project efficiency and safety. This guide aims to provide comprehensive insights into the world of hydraulic hammers, helping professionals and enthusiasts alike to make informed decisions and maximize the utility of these powerful tools.
A hydraulic hammer, also sometimes called a hydraulic breaker, is a powerful attachment used on construction equipment like excavators, backhoes, and skid-steer loaders. Essentially, they are heavy-duty jackhammers that use hydraulic pressure instead of manual force to deliver a powerful punch. This mechanism allows for efficient demolition and breaking of tough materials such as concrete, asphalt, and rocks. Hydraulic hammers operate by converting the hydraulic power from the carrier machine into mechanical energy, generating a high-impact force that is both precise and effective. This makes them indispensable in various construction and demolition tasks, enhancing productivity while minimizing the physical strain on workers.
Hydraulic hammers operate based on a straightforward yet highly effective principle of hydraulic power conversion. The process begins with the hydraulic fluid supplied by the carrier machine'such as an excavator'being directed into the hammer through a circuit of pipes and valves. This hydraulic fluid is pressurized and moved by a hydraulic pump, creating the necessary force to drive a heavy piston up and down within the hammer housing. When activated, the pressurized fluid forces the piston to strike a tool bit, which is the part that makes direct contact with the material being broken.
The impact generated by the piston is incredibly powerful, allowing the hydraulic hammer to excel at breaking up tough materials like concrete, rock, asphalt, and even hard-packed soil. This high-impact force is both concentrated and efficient, making hydraulic hammers ideal for various demolition projects. However, their utility extends beyond demolition; they are also invaluable in construction tasks such as breaking ground, trenching, and general excavation. In the mining industry, hydraulic hammers are used to break rocks and ores, facilitating easier extraction and processing.
The versatility and performance of hydraulic hammers make them indispensable tools in any heavy-duty operation where breaking or fracturing extremely hard materials is required. Their robust design ensures the high-impact force is delivered with precision, providing both speed and efficiency in demanding environments.
Unlike manual jackhammers that rely on human strength, hydraulic hammers are powered by the machine's hydraulic system, offering a substantial increase in force and efficiency. The heart of a hydraulic hammer's power source lies in the high-pressure oil supplied by the carrier machine, such as an excavator or skid-steer loader. This pressurized oil is directed through a system of hoses and valves to the hammer, where it engages the hydraulic mechanism.
Inside the hammer, the high-pressure oil exerts force on a piston, driving it rapidly back and forth. This reciprocal motion generates the hammering action necessary to break through hard materials like concrete, rock, and asphalt. The rate at which the piston moves, combined with the pressure of the hydraulic oil, allows for a powerful impact force that far exceeds what could be achieved manually. This efficient transfer of hydraulic energy into mechanical force enables quicker and more effective demolition and construction processes.
Moreover, the hydraulic system's ability to provide consistent and adjustable pressure means that the operator can control the hammer's striking force with precision. This adaptability ensures that the hydraulic hammer can be used across a variety of applications, from heavy-duty demolition to more delicate excavation tasks. The reliability and power provided by the hydraulic system make hydraulic hammers an indispensable tool in modern construction and demolition work.
Hydraulic hammers come in various sizes, each designed to tackle specific types of tasks and materials. The primary classification can be broken down into small, medium, and large classes, each with distinct characteristics and suitable applications. Understanding these differences helps you select the right tool for your specific needs, optimizing both efficiency and performance.
The small class of hydraulic hammers boasts an impact frequency ranging from 400 to BPM (blows per minute) and operates at a hydraulic pressure of to PSI. These hammers are typically used for lighter demolition tasks, such as breaking through small concrete slabs, brickwork, and other lightweight materials. They are ideal for urban construction sites where space is limited and where precision and minimal disruption are paramount.
Medium-class hydraulic hammers operate with an impact frequency between 370 and 700 BPM and a hydraulic pressure ranging from to PSI. This class is versatile and often employed in a variety of applications, from medium-sized demolition jobs to breaking down substantial concrete structures and roadworks. Their balanced size and power make them the go-to choice for tasks that demand more force than small hammers can provide yet require more maneuverability than large hammers.
Large-class hydraulic hammers feature an impact frequency of 200 to 400 BPM and operate at a hydraulic pressure of to PSI. These heavy-duty hammers are designed for the most demanding demolition tasks, such as breaking massive concrete slabs, reinforced structures, and hard rock formations. Their immense power and larger size make them suitable for large-scale construction and mining operations where high impact force is crucial for efficiency and effectiveness.
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Hydraulic hammers are versatile tools used across numerous industries due to their powerful impact force and efficiency. They play a crucial role in tasks ranging from heavy-duty demolition to delicate post-driving, providing unparalleled effectiveness and reliability. Below, we explore the primary applications of hydraulic hammers in different sectors.
In demolition, hydraulic hammers are indispensable for breaking down old structures, including buildings, bridges, and roads. Their ability to deliver precise, high-impact blows makes them perfect for crushing concrete and asphalt, speeding up the demolition process while ensuring safety and accuracy. This efficiency not only reduces project timelines but also minimizes noise and dust, contributing to a safer working environment.
In the construction industry, hydraulic hammers are employed for tasks such as breaking ground, trenching, and preparing foundations. The high-impact force allows for swift excavation of hard-packed soil and rock, making foundational work more efficient. Whether it's roadworks or erecting new buildings, hydraulic hammers enhance productivity and facilitate smoother project execution.
Hydraulic hammers are critical in mining and quarrying operations, where breaking rocks and ores is a routine requirement. They are used to fragment large rocks into manageable sizes, aiding in extraction and processing. The precision and power of hydraulic hammers make them ideal for operating in tough, challenging environments where robustness and reliability are essential.
Hydraulic hammers also find utility in the steel and recycling industry, where they are used to break down scrap metal and dismantle old machinery. Their capacity to produce significant force ensures that even the hardest metals can be processed efficiently. This capability enhances recycling processes, making the disposal and repurposing of materials quicker and more effective.
In farming, they are adapted for tasks such as breaking up hard soil and rocks in fields, facilitating easier planting and irrigation. Their versatile application extends to land clearance and farm infrastructure maintenance. This adaptability helps farmers increase productivity by ensuring field preparation is fast and thorough.
For post-driving, hydraulic hammers simplify the process of installing fence posts, signposts, and guardrails. They deliver consistent and substantial force, driving posts into the ground with precision and speed. This application is particularly valuable in both agriculture and urban infrastructure projects, providing efficiency and reliability.
In battery recycling, hydraulic hammers play a crucial role in breaking down old batteries into recyclable components. They help efficiently crush and separate battery materials, which is essential for safe and effective recycling processes. This application underscores the environmental benefits of hydraulic hammers by aiding in the sustainable disposal of hazardous items.
Hydraulic hammers offer numerous advantages in various industries, making them indispensable tools for modern construction, demolition, and other heavy-duty applications. Their unique design and functionality provide several key benefits that enhance productivity and ensure superior performance. The primary benefits of hydraulic hammers are explained in detail below.
Hydraulic hammers are renowned for their efficiency, allowing for faster task completion compared to traditional methods. They deliver high-impact blows that can quickly break through even the toughest materials, significantly reducing project timelines. This efficiency translates to lower labor costs and increased project turnover, benefiting contractors and operators alike.
One of the most noteworthy benefits of hydraulic hammers is their immense power. These tools are capable of delivering thousands of pounds of force per blow, making them ideal for breaking through reinforced concrete, large rocks, and other hard materials. The substantial power output ensures that heavy-duty tasks can be accomplished with minimal physical effort, enhancing overall productivity.
They are designed with safety in mind, incorporating various features that protect both the operator and the machinery. They have enclosed mechanical systems that minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, the precise control mechanisms allow for safer operation in crowded or sensitive environments, ensuring that demolition and construction tasks are performed without undue risk.
The precision of hydraulic hammers allows for accurate and controlled demolition and construction work. Advanced control systems enable operators to adjust the impact force and frequency to suit the specific requirements of a task. This precision prevents unnecessary damage to surrounding structures and materials, maintaining the integrity of the work site and improving overall project quality.
They are highly versatile tools suitable for a wide range of applications across different industries. From demolition and construction to mining, farming, and recycling, these hammers can be easily adapted to various tasks. Their ability to handle both heavy-duty and delicate jobs makes them a valuable asset, offering flexibility and reliability to operators in diverse fields.
The ideal hammer size depends on the material you're breaking, the carrier you're using, and your desired productivity. Larger hammers deliver more power but require a compatible excavator or backhoe. Consult your equipment manufacturer or a hydraulic hammer supplier for recommendations based on your specific needs.
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This includes greasing the tool shank and connections, checking for leaks and wear on hoses and connections, and monitoring hydraulic oil levels and cleanliness. Refer to your manufacturer's manual for specific maintenance schedules.
Yes, with some restrictions. Specific underwater hydraulic hammer models are designed to operate submerged, and they require specialized training and safety protocols for underwater operation.
Several factors can cause issues like weak impact or malfunction. Common culprits include low hydraulic pressure, contaminated oil, worn bushings, or a faulty piston. Consult your user manual for troubleshooting steps, and for serious issues, seek help from a qualified technician.
Safety is paramount. Always wear proper PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, a hard hat, a respirator (for dust control), and sturdy footwear. Maintain a safe distance from the hammering area and be aware of potential hazards like falling debris.
While versatile, hydraulic hammers may not be suitable for all situations. They can cause vibrations that might damage nearby structures, and they may not be the most efficient tool for very delicate demolition work where precision is critical.
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With DATAMYTE, you have an all-in-one solution for managing your hydraulic hammers, from maintenance and safety protocols to performance analysis. By streamlining your processes and automating tasks with our platform, you can optimize the efficiency of your hydraulic hammer operations and improve overall project outcomes. Book a demo now to learn more.
Hydraulic hammers are indispensable tools in the construction and demolition industries. Their exceptional power, safety features, precision, and versatility make them a preferred choice for a wide range of heavy-duty applications. Choosing the right hydraulic hammer and maintaining it properly can significantly enhance operational efficiency and project outcomes. As with any powerful equipment, adhering to safety protocols and regular maintenance schedules is essential to ensure long-term performance and reliability. By understanding the capabilities and proper usage of hydraulic hammers, operators can execute tasks more effectively and achieve superior results in their projects.
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