Since last August an Atlas Copco HB 4100 hydraulic breaker has been deployed for underwater demolition near Giglio Island, Tuscany, Italy.
The work is the first phase of a major maritime engineering operation in which Atlas Copco is closely collaborating with Sales SpA, a well known Italian construction company specializing in infrastructure and maritime projects.
For underwater demolition of granite rocks at a depth of ten meters, Sales SpA is using an Atlas Copco HB 4100 breaker , with a machine weight of 4,150 kg, attached to a Liebherr 984 tracked excavator mounted on a floating pontoon. Working ” blind ” in the cabin of the excavator, the operator relies exclusively on a GPS tracking system and instructions from the divers.
One single blow with a flooded stroke chamber would damage the breaker. Therefore, to enable the HB 4100 to operate effectively underwater it is partnered with an Atlas Copco XAHS186 compressor. The compressor prevents water from entering the machine by blowing in compressed air. Channels for compressed air are standard on Atlas Copco hydraulic breakers, enabling them to be used underwater. A safety system immediately stops the stroke of the hammer if, for any reason, the compressor stops injecting compressed air.
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.”
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Press Release, May 22, 2013