What is a hydraulic breaker on an excavator | Huilian Guide

What is a Hydraulic Breaker on an Excavator?

Hydraulic breakers, also called rock breakers or hammers, are crucial excavator attachments in the construction and mining industries. This article explains what a hydraulic breaker is, core features, and maintenance tips—information that every excavator parts specialist requires. Keywords such as “hydraulic breaker,” “excavator hydraulic breaker,” and “breaker attachment” are used to address user queries and key pain points, such as equipment fit, productivity, and reliable part sourcing.

What is a Hydraulic Breaker on an Excavator?

A hydraulic breaker is a powerful demolition tool mounted on excavators, used for breaking rock, concrete, and other hard materials. Proper knowledge of this component helps professionals improve machine productivity, reduce downtime, and select compatible replacement parts.

Key Functions and Benefits

- Primary Application:

- Demolishes concrete, rocks, and structures

- Widely used in roadwork, mining, and quarrying

- Facilitates foundation removal, trenching, and construction site clearing

- Working Principle:

- Operates via hydraulic pressure supplied through the excavator’s hydraulic system

- Internal piston moves rapidly, transferring impact energy to the breaker tool (chisel or moil point)

- Delivers high-frequency blows for efficient breaking

- Compatibility:

- Fits a range of excavator sizes (1–70 ton class)

- Quick coupler systems allow flexible attachment and detachment

- Essential to choose a breaker with compatible hydraulic flow and pressure ratings

Common Hydraulic Breaker Components

- Main Body: Heavy-duty casing protects internal components

- Accumulator: Absorbs pressure spikes, ensures steady operation

- Chisel/Tool: Replaceable working tool, adapted for application

- Hydraulic Hoses: Deliver sustained power from the excavator

- Control Valve: Regulates oil flow and pressure

Performance Considerations

- Impact Rate: Measured in blows per minute (bpm); correlates with breaker productivity

- Operating Pressure: Typically ranges from 100–210 bar (per major OEM specs such as Caterpillar and Komatsu)

- Tool Diameter: Larger diameter delivers stronger, slower impacts (Source: (https://www.komatsu.com/en/))

Maintenance Best Practices

- Daily Inspection:

- Check for leaks, cracks, and excessive wear

- Inspect hydraulic hoses and connections

- Lubrication:

- Regular greasing extends tool and bush life

- Tool Replacement:

- Replace worn chisels promptly to prevent damage

- Scheduled Servicing:

- Adhere to manufacturer maintenance schedules for internal parts

Industry References

- (https://www.cat.com/)

- (https://www.komatsu.com/en/)

- Compatibility, impact energy, and correct maintenance are vital

- Reliable knowledge assists in selecting, maintaining, and sourcing breaker attachments

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Summary (Max 300 characters):

Discover the essentials of a hydraulic breaker on an excavator. Explore applications, core components, and expert tips for efficient use and maintenance with Huilian.