Atlas hydraulic breakers are an incredibly powerful tool to use in construction projects. However, like all other hydraulic breakers, their strength can cause a lot of damage if operators aren’t careful with them. As a result, there are many rules operators must follow when it comes to operating hydraulic hammers and similar equipment. Here are the many do’s and don’ts of hydraulic breakers so you can ensure your project is safe for everyone involved.

What to Do When Operating a Hydraulic Breaker

• Always match the hydraulic flow of the breaker with the pressure requirements of the carrier.
• While operating a hydraulic breaker, reposition it every 15-30 seconds until the material breaks. As this happens, maintain a downwards pressure on the breaker.
• You should only run the breaker while you are in the operator’s seat, as you have complete control over it there.
• The head should be capable of moving freely during operations.
• Flow test the excavator, mini-excavator, or skid steer beforehand because if you don’t, then their lifespan will not be as long as expected.
• Routinely lubricate the breaker to protect the tool brushings from damage.
• Remove the bit of the breaker on a weekly basis and check for wear on the tool shank. Galling, a form of wear caused by the friction of materials pressing against one another may appear there if it does not receive proper lubrication.
• Perform visual inspections of hydraulic hammers daily, as the regular stress and vibrations can lead to performance issues.
• Make certain that the person who is operating a hydraulic breaker understands how it functions and the signs they should look out for during routine visual inspections.

What Not to Do When Operating a Hydraulic Breaker

• When using your hydraulic breaker, do not operate it while it is suspended in the air. This error is known as blank firing; instead, keep it planted firmly against the material you intend to break.
• While operating hydraulic hammers, never leave it in the same spot for a long period of time. By doing so, you would create an excessive amount of heat that can lead to tool breakage.
• Do not use a hydraulic breaker underwater because if you do, it will contaminate the hydraulic system. Using hydraulic hammers underwater is possible, but only if you attached their air compressor kit exactly as instructed.
• If you ever use a hydraulic breaker in a trench, do not ever let the breaker touch the trench walls.
• Never try to break down large objects from the center, as it will significantly increase the breakout force and cause it to stress the breaker out and overheat the demolition tool. To circumvent this issue, approach large objects from the outer edges and gradually work your way inward.
• Only use a hydraulic breaker for its intended purpose. While operating a hydraulic breaker, do not use it to lift, move, or pry objects. There are other tools designed to handle those functions.

Don’t fail to report any signs of wear or breakage so that they can be properly addressed.

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Whether you have a Stanley, Tramac, or CAT 130 hydraulic hammer, it’s important to know how to maintain it properly. Hydraulic Breaker Services, LLC can help you keep your equipment in good working order. We also like to provide helpful tips that prolong the useful life of your hydraulic breaker. Follow the tips and instructions below to grease the hydraulic hammer and improve performance.

Why It’s Important to Grease a Hydraulic Hammer

You may wonder why it’s vital to grab the grease gun and lubricate the hydraulic breaker. It receives significant wear and tear where it meets the bushings. Failing to lubricate at proper intervals increases wear rates and causes more frequent tool replacement.

In order to continue dispersing heat properly and prevent debris from accumulating in the breaker, it’s imperative to perform regular hydraulic hammer maintenance.

How To Grease Your Hydraulic Rock Breaker

When you grease the hydraulic hammer, firmly press the tool inside the rock breaker to control the amount of grease entering the chamber. If you used too much grease, it could cause the moving parts inside the chamber to freeze up. It could also cause a seal failure or allow grease to get into the system when you start a hydraulic hammer.
When conducting hydraulic hammer maintenance, place the hammer in a vertical position. This provides enough downward pressure to move the tool up into the housing. Continue greasing until clean grease slides down around the tool and retainer pins.

Grease the hydraulic hammer every two hours for optimal results. You should also grease the tool whenever it appears shiny inside the front head. Make sure to use the grease recommended by the manufacturer. For example, BTI chisel paste works great as a lubricant for BTI’s hydraulic rock breakers. If you use general EP purpose grease, it can run down the tool and melt without properly lubricating the demolition equipment.

Tips for Hydraulic Hammer Maintenance

Hydraulic hammer maintenance can reduce wear and tear on the equipment. Adequate lubrication can protect the sensitive moving parts in a rock breaker. Here are a few tips to follow when you grease the hydraulic hammer.

Complete a Visual Inspection

When conducting hydraulic hammer maintenance, start with a visual inspection period, this only takes a few minutes, but many operators forget to do it. With a visual inspection, you can identify warm parts and prevent downtime. The graphite and copper material used to construct the hammer build up heat and require frequent lubrication.

Check the Bushing

Every time you perform hydraulic hammer maintenance, check the tool bushing. If you can place the tall flat inside and turn it, you may need to replace the bushing.

Examine Hydraulic Hoses

Hydraulic hoses decrease wear and tear when they are the correct length. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that the hoses provide the required extension. On the other hand, long hoses can become disengaged on rebar and other items.
Contact Hydraulic Breaker Services for maintenance, sales, and service of hydraulic hammers. We also sell Kent hydraulic hammers for sale. Reach out today for more exclusive offers!