Underwater outing for HB 4100 breaker

Italian contractor Sales SpA is using a 4,150 kg (9,130 lb) Atlas Copco HB 4100 hydraulic breaker in a challenging underwater demolition that forms part of phase one of a major maritime engineering operation near Giglio Island in the Tuscany region of Italy.

Sales is breaking up granite rocks at a depth of 10 m (32.8 ft) with the breaker, which is mounted on a Liebherr R984 excavator positioned on a floating pontoon. The excavator operator has to work ‘blind’ and relies exclusively on a GPS tracking system and instructions given to him by divers overseeing the work.

In order to prevent damage to the breaker resulting from even a single blow with a flooded stroke chamber, the breaker has been teamed with an Atlas Copco XAHS186 compressor that provides a continuous supply of compressed air to the breaker. All Atlas Copco breakers have compressed air channels as standard and a safety system immediately stops the stroke of the hammer if this compressed air supply stops for any reason.

Gordon Hambach, Product Line Manager Hydraulic Breakers, points out that Atlas Copco has extensive experience of dredging, excavation and underwater demolition in harbours, rivers, and canals. “We are working on projects of this type with a number of companies around the world and can offer a customized package comprising breaker and compressor, depending on water depth and breaker size. Customers are always welcome to discuss their specific needs with our specialist sales and technical personnel located at our Customer Centers throughout the world.”