Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/726012
EquipmentWorld.com | September 2016 35 H ydraulic hammers, or break- ers, are some of the most used, least understood machines in the heavy equipment world. They can make or break a job…and the bottom line. It's not hard to understand why: a hydraulic hammer can cost up to 20- to 40-percent more than the carrier it's mounted on, and can require two to three times the maintenance and repairs over the course of its life. Additionally, contractors often have more ques- tions about hammers than they do reliable answers. Ask around Over the past 12 months, part of my job was to research options in the hydraulic breaker market for my employer. During my search I learned a lot about hammers, and hopefully this information will remove some of the mystery sur- rounding hydraulic breakers. When I fi rst started this project, I talked to several contractor friends to get their input on hammers. I found that most had purchased whatever their dealer offered, mainly due to the lack of reli- able information. They all had a brand or two they liked, a few shared a maintenance | by Elliot Stanton Products mainly due to the lack of reli- EquipmentWorld.com Allied Allied's Rammer series mid- and large-range hammers are designed for carriers from 26,500 to 176,000 pounds and feature high-strength housings for durability. Slip-fi t tool bushings allow for easy replace- ment, and a simplifi ed attachment system speeds installation. The company's VIDAT system uses vibration dampened tie rods that reduce operating costs, extend life, and minimize downtime. Top down lubrication is standard, and remote lubrication and air lines can be installed for underwater work. Atlas Copco The energy recovery system on Atlas Copco's 4.5 ton HB 4100 breaker uses the piston's recoil to power the next blow, minimizing vibrations and hydraulic demand from the carrier. Sized to fi t 40 to 70 ton carriers, the HB 4100's AutoCon- trol system automatically adjusts how hard the breaker hits based on the density of the material being broken. Editor's note: We welcome reader perspectives such as Elliot's. If you've gained knowledge that you want to share with our readers, contact Tom Jackson at tjackson@randallreilly.com. HOW I SELECT AND USE HYDRAULIC HAMMERS