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February 01, 2012 |

Compact excavators up to demolition work

By Mike Anderson

The expanding use of compact excavators in demolition is a main reason why Takeuchi increased the hydraulic flow on a number of machines, including the conventional TB250 and “Full Rotation” TB153FR in the 5-ton range.

“When selecting a breaker, it is important to review the requirements of the machine, such as weight and available hydraulic flow,” says David Steger, national product manager.

Conversely, says IHI national sales manager Kendall Aldridge, “if a hydraulic hammer is going to be a part of the package, then the max flow requirements for the hammer and the average thickness of the material being demolished will also be an important part of the puzzle when choosing the compact excavator.”

Compact equipment manufacturer Bobcat offers tips for customers using their E50 or E55 with a breaker:

• When operating the breaker, press the tool against the target material until the weight of the machine is transferred to the attachment. The shank should be completely compressed into the housing to prevent dry firing, which occurs when the breaker is activated with no or little pressure on the shank. Dry firing, with its distinctive sound, may reduce the service life of the breaker’s internal components.

• The shank must be greased regularly during constant use. Two times per day is recommended. Otherwise, the operator risks the eventual seizure of the breaker and tool.

• When breaking, prying should be held to a minimum. Excessive prying will cause damage to the tool. EW

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Atlas Copco

SB 152 Breaker

For contractors using compact excavators in demolition applications, Atlas Copco offers a family of SB small hydraulic breakers, CC combi cutters, SC scrap cutters and MG multi-grapples. The solid-body breakers boast built-in pressure relief valves to prevent internal damage caused by excessive flow and pressure. Combi cutters have a two-cylinder design with 360-degree rotation – a movement ability matched by the hydraulic scrap cutters and multi-grapples. Also positioned in the “silent demolition tool” lineup, Atlas Copco updated its hydraulic compactors within the last three months. An overload protection valve allows the user to install the HC150, HC350 or HC450 on multiple carriers without worrying about dangerous flow or pressure changes from one machine to the next. A regeneration feature protects the hydraulic motor on bi-directional circuits.