Old slabs, paths, footings and limestone caprock are common obstacles on Perth jobs. A hydraulic breaker turns a mini excavator into a demolition tool.
Choosing a breaker
- Match the breaker to your machine, e.g. breaker for R22, breaker for R18 or the R32 breaker hammer.
- Breakers need auxiliary hydraulics. Machines with higher flow, like the R18 PRO (41.4 L/min piston pump), run them strongly.
Technique
- Work from the edge. Start near an edge or crack rather than the middle of a slab.
- Keep the tool square. Hold the breaker at 90° to the surface and apply steady down-pressure.
- Short bursts. Break in short bursts, moving if the material doesn't crack within a few seconds.
- Don't pry with the tool. Levering with the chisel damages it.
- Clear as you go. Remove broken pieces with a bucket so you can see what you're doing.
Safety
- Hearing and eye protection for everyone nearby — breakers are loud and throw chips.
- Keep people well clear of the work area.
- Check for reinforcement, services and conduits in slabs before breaking.
- Some older buildings and materials may contain asbestos — get suspect materials tested and follow WA regulations.
Before you dig: lodge a free enquiry with Before You Dig Australia (byda.com.au) and locate underground services. See Before You Dig in WA.
Limestone caprock
For caprock, try a ripper first — it's quicker when the rock is layered. Use the breaker for solid pieces the ripper can't lift.
See it in person: visit 10 Bushby St, Bellevue WA 6056 or call 1300 263 551. You can also send an enquiry.
Still have questions?
Our Bellevue team can help you choose the right machine and attachments.
