An easy way to open/close a Hydraulic Breaker!
Updated: Jun 20, 2022
Insufficient tools can make the maintenance of large hydraulic breakers a cumbersome task.
What is a hydraulic breaker?
A hydraulic breaker is a mighty percussion hammer fitted to an excavator for demolishing rigid structures. It is powered by an auxiliary hydraulic system from the excavator. Proper operating techniques and routine maintenance can enhance breaker performance and extend working life.
These attachments for excavators are designed to demolish rock, concrete and intact construction materials. Using proper operating techniques, pulverizing rock and breaking apart concrete can be accomplished efficiently and effectively.
Routine Maintenance of a Hydraulic Breaker
Daily maintenance should include a visual inspection of the breaker before use.
Daily greasing is also critical to optimal breaker function. Many large breakers have automatic lubrication systems that deliver a constant grease flow and eliminate the need for manual application.
If manual greasing is required, follow manufacturer recommendations — typically, every hour or two of operation.
Use the correct grease
Scheduled Maintenance
Scheduled maintenance or service of the Hydraulic Breaker is necessary and requires the tensioning bolts' removal in the shop.
The OEM recommends the following procedure for an HB 2000 or HB 2500
The tensioning bolt heads can be seen through the openings in the breaker box.
1. Pre-tighten the tensioning bolts to 500 Nm crosswise, 2. retighten 120° (2 hexagons) crosswise, 3. retighten 150° (2.5 hexagons) crosswise
This task can be difficult and exhausting with insufficient tools as the torsional forces in the long rods require high torque to reach the recommended degrees.
A pneumatic torque multiplier (Power Tool) is an intelligent solution for the task.
The alkitronic CLS 2/3400 for up to 25,100 ft-lbs is a solution that makes the task quicker, less stressful for the operators and maintenance team. A unique reaction arm is required and a crane to position the 127 lb heavy tool on the bolts in the shop. With a standard air requirement of 25-35 cfm at 100 psi, the tool's operation is a Child's play and allows this user to replace the tensioning bolts of the hydraulic hammer within minutes and in a safe manner. The pictures below show the pneumatic torque tool powering the gear drive with its unique reaction arm.
One could consider the use of a hydraulic wrench or electric torque multiplier. Still, because of the torsional forces due to the significant distance between the head and thread of the bolt, the reacting forces are so high that only the sturdy alkitronic pneumatic torque multiplier resists these forces in the long run and does not prematurely fail.
For more information on our pneumatic solutions, follow this link.