As the construction industry continues to evolve, so do the tools and equipment used on job sites. One of the essential tools for any heavy demolition project is the hydraulic hammer. These powerful tools can easily break down large concrete structures, bedrock, shot and blasted rock and other materials. Unless you are working in sand, almost all trenchwork and utility work will need a hydraulic breaker at some point in the project. With the year just starting and businesses starting to make preparations, it’s essential to stay ahead of the game and know which hydraulic hammers are worth investing in for 2023. 

This blog post will discuss the top hydraulic hammers on the market and what makes them stand out from the competition. Whether you’re a contractor looking to upgrade your equipment or a construction, demolition or excavation enthusiast interested in the latest tools, this is a post you will want to take advantage of. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best hydraulic hammers for 2023.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Hydraulic Hammer In 2023

Before you step into the market to price and choose from the different kinds of hydraulic hammers, you need to consider several factors and ask yourself some questions that will help you make the best choice. Some of these questions include:

• What kind of job or project am I engaging in? Is it minor indoor concrete demolition, large scale sitework, utility installation or quarry use?   and renovation or large-scale construction?
• What size hydraulic hammer will be needed to break through the material?
• Will I buy or rent a new or used hydraulic hammer?
• Am I buying or renting?
• Will I use this hydraulic hammer for other purposes or just one job?
• How much can I spare to either rent or buy?
• What size skid steer, backhoe, mini excavator of full sized excavator will I need to carry the hammer?

Getting definite answers to these questions will help narrow down your choices and also save you stress and money in the long run.

Types of Hydraulic Hammers (& Their Size)

Hydraulic hammers are considered the “big guns” in the construction, demolition, mining and excavation  industry. They are used to demolish buildings, break boulders with high impact generated via hydraulic power supplied by a skid steer, mini excavator, backhoe or full sized excavator.  Compared to pneumatic or hydraulic hand-held hammers, mounted hydraulic hammers generate more impact power, are safer as they are held by mobile piece of equipment, and are easier on the worker on the ground.  

There are majorly three types of hydraulic hammers used on different occasions, they include;

Small-Sized Hydraulic Hammers 

As their name suggests, they are used to demolish shaley, brittle rock as well as light concrete demolition like pools, patios, sidewalks, parking garages and slabs as well as indoor renovations. With a post driving tool, they are perfect for installing and setting fence posts,guardrail and piping.  They use less pressure (PSI) and their cycle time-measured in blows per minute, is much faster when compared to the larger ones. Concerning speed, compact demolition, knowledge of use, and efficiency, the small hydraulic hammers excel.

Middle-Sized Hydraulic Hammers 

They are the most commonly used during construction as they are the perfect blend of both worlds (big and small). They provide significant impact power and force to the material to be broken like large hydraulic hammers,  but have low environmental impact like small hydraulic hammers. With an operating pressure of 2000-2500 PSI, the middle-sized hydraulic hammer is perfect for excavating embedded rock, trench and utility work as well as breaking oversized boulders.  It is ideal for excavating foundations, heavy reinforced concrete demolition and all other construction and demolition works. 

Large Hydraulic Hammers 

They are used for extensive excavation, quarry or construction works. Large-sized hydraulic hammers are big (obviously), and require the operational services of a skilled operator. They have an operating range of 2300+ PSI, hitting the ground with enough force to shatter anything. Since large hydraulic breakers apply such high impact force on the material to be demolished via a longer stroke and heavier piston, the cycle speed, or blows per minute, is lower-unlike middle- and small-sized hydraulic hammers. As these hydraulic hammers are heavier and require more oil to operate efficiently, they require large 30-100 ton excavators to power them. 

Contact Gorilla Hammers Today

At Gorilla Hammers, we understand that it can take time to discern which hydraulic hammers you need for your project. We offer our experts to help you choose the suitable hydraulic hammer for your project. We also provide hydraulic breakers for rental or hire at an affordable cost. Our hydraulic hammers for hire are the best available in the market. Hence, you are assured of ease and durability during use. For further assistance, please call us at 1 (888) 814 – 6745 or fill out a contact form on our website.