Critical Operational Procedures
Follow these step-by-step procedures for key aspects of hydraulic hammer operation to ensure maximum performance and service life.
Proper Hammer Positioning
- Position carrier on stable, level ground
- Deploy stabilizers/outriggers if equipped
- Align hammer perpendicular (90°) to the work surface
- Maintain 90° angle in both planes (front-to-back and side-to-side)
- Position hammer with the tool fully visible to the operator
- Avoid working at angles that create side loading
- Keep the tool fully pressed against material before activating
- Position to work from the outside edge of material when possible
- Reposition carrier rather than stretching boom to reach
- Avoid working with boom fully extended
- Keep carrier tracks/wheels parallel to the boom
- Maintain stable three-point contact when repositioning
Proper Breaking Technique
- Select correct tool type for the material
- Apply appropriate down pressure on the tool
- Start hammer only with tool pressed against material
- Listen for consistent operating sound
- Limit continuous operation to 15-30 seconds per spot
- Stop immediately when material breaks through
- Avoid blank firing (operation without resistance)
- Reposition when no progress after 15-30 seconds
- Maintain 8-10 inches between tool strikes in hard material
- Work from edges toward the center when possible
- Use material's natural stress lines and fractures
- Avoid using hammer as a pry bar or lifting device
Proper Greasing Procedure
- Use only manufacturer-approved hammer grease
- Clean grease fitting before attaching grease gun
- Press tool firmly against a hard surface
- Apply grease until excess appears around tool
- Grease before operation when hammer is cool
- Grease every 2 hours during continuous operation
- Watch for grease consistency around tool bushing
- Apply additional grease immediately if dust is visible
- Ensure even distribution of grease around bushing
- Use proper hammer paste grease (not chassis grease)
- Maintain lubrication during underwater operation
- Document greasing in maintenance log
Underwater Operation Procedure
- Verify hammer is approved for underwater operation
- Install underwater kit if required
- Check air compressor and connections
- Ensure air supply meets manufacturer requirements
- Connect air line to underwater adapter
- Verify air pressure meets specifications
- Test air supply system before submersion
- Maintain continuous air supply during operation
- Monitor air bubbles at water surface
- Limit submersion depth per manufacturer specs
- Clean thoroughly after underwater operation
- Apply additional grease after underwater use