How to size a hydraulic hammer?

1. Match the Hammer to the Carrier (Excavator/Backhoe)

  • Carrier Operating Weight: Hammers are rated to work within a specific machine weight range (e.g., 8–14 tons, 20–30 tons).

  • Rule of thumb:

    • Breaker weight = 8–12% of excavator operating weight.

    • Example: A 20-ton excavator should use a 1.6–2.4 ton hammer.

👉 Undersized hammers underperform. Oversized hammers overstress the boom, arm, and hydraulic system.

                                                                     Beilite Hydraulic Breaker

2.Check Hydraulic Flow & Pressure

Every breaker has required oil flow (l/min or gpm) and operating pressure (bar/psi).

  • Excavator’s auxiliary hydraulic circuit must meet these specs.

  • Example: A breaker requiring 120 l/min @ 160 bar must be matched to an excavator with compatible auxiliary hydraulics.

👉 If flow is too low → weak blows. Too high → overheats and damages seals.


3. Consider the Work Type (Application)

  • Hard Rock / Mining / Quarry → Larger hammer (higher impact energy).

  • Concrete Demolition / Road Work → Mid-sized hammer, focus on impact frequency.

  • Utility Trenching / Secondary Breaking → Smaller, lighter hammer for speed and maneuverability.


4. Match Tool Diameter to Material

The chisel diameter (tool bit) should suit the job:

  • Thin chisels → faster penetration (good for concrete).

  • Thick chisels → better for boulders and hard rock.


5. Impact Energy vs. Carrier Size

Impact energy (measured in Joules or ft-lb) should be proportional to carrier capacity.

  • General guideline: Breaker impact energy = 150–300 ft-lb per ton of excavator.

    • Example: A 20-ton excavator → breaker around 3,000–6,000 ft-lb.


6. Other Considerations

  • Frequency vs. Power:

    • High frequency + low power → best for concrete.

    • Low frequency + high power → best for granite/rock.

  • Operating environment: Noise restrictions may require a silenced breaker.

  • Transport & handling: Oversized hammers make the machine less stable.



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