Some demolition and decommissioning jobs call for breaking materials or structures into rubble. When that is the case, the right tool for the job is a tough, reliable robotic hammer. Robotic hammers marshal force, power and remote control technology to get the job done efficiently and safely. In addition to the diamond wire saws and patented diamond rail saws we are known for, Bluegrass Bit has a fleet of robotic hammers and a team of skilled operators ready to deploy when project plans demand such tools.
When presented with a job needing robotic hammering, Bluegrass Bit sends hydraulic/electric robotic hammers for effective, efficient, and reliable modification or demolition of concrete structures—including reinforced concrete—and refractory castables.
How Robotic Hammering Works
Robotic hammers are versatile demolition tools operated remotely by skilled operators using fingertip controls that allow precise and effective maneuvering in confined spaces. The remote operation capability removes workers from exposed areas, harmful fumes and vibration. An additional benefit is the ability to stage and operate equipment from elevated or suspended platforms.
The techniques and methods utilized for effective robotic hammering include considering which model will perform best on the job. Bluegrass Bit exclusively uses Brokk equipment for robotic hammering. With a fleet of over 30 Brokk robotic hammers, we can select the model best suited to the particular job and application.
Bluegrass Bit uses three different types of Brokk robotic hammers:
- Brokk 150 — This compact machine is useful for confined space demolition. It’s a relatively lightweight machine able to fit through most doorways.
- Brokk 250 — This is Brokk’s original model that was developed in the 1970s. It’s a powerful combination of reliable technology and force which makes it suitable for a variety of tasks. Unlike other models, this one rides on rubber wheels.
- Brokk 330 — This is the most powerful robotic demolition solution in the Brokk series, with the world’s high capacity for this type of machine. Although the machine weighs only 9,240 lbs., it can be equipped with tools weighing an additional 1,210 lbs.
Advantages of Using Robotic Hammering
Often there are multiple options for accomplishing a demolition or decommissioning job. When and why should robotic hammering be considered as part of the solution?
1. Saves Time
When combined with other solutions like diamond wire saws and diamond wire rail saws, robotic hammering saves significant time in the demolition process. Even when used alone, a robotic hammer can ensure the job is expedited more efficiently than would otherwise happen.
2. Easy Access
Robotic hammers are operated remotely using an advanced controller. These unmanned machines are able to reach remote locations and hard-to-reach areas. Amazingly, robotic hammers can climb stairs, roll over debris, and the smaller models fit through most doorways. When necessary and with appropriate equipment, they can operate while suspended.
3. Safer Approach
Robotic hammering is the ideal solution for demolition jobs in hostile and hazardous environments which pose a risk to workers on the job and people in the vicinity. These remote-operated machines keep the operators and workers safe while the job is completed as quickly as possible.
Industrial Applications of Robotic Hammering
When a project involves segmenting a structure into pieces too large for removal, we may use a robotic hammer to break the concrete or refractory into smaller pieces. Bluegrass Bit robotic hammers clean kilns by hammering out materials which have built up over time on interior surfaces.
Other industrial applications for robotic hammering:
- Repair and demolition of bridges and heavy civil structures construction
- Modifications to industrial production facilities
- Maintenance at metals processing and refractory facilities
- Interior demolition at limited access/confined space worksites
- Any application where emissions present a significant challenge
Bluegrass Bit Projects Involving Robotic Hammering
Examples of jobs Bluegrass Bit has completed using robotic hammering solutions:
Nucor Rolling Mill
Through a contract with this steel mill client in Norfolk, NE, Bluegrass Bit worked around the clock for four days using eight robotic hammers to demolish six hundred cubic yards of concrete foundations in a congested area.
Each foundation was 8′ thick, up to 16′ long, and 8′ wide. Other contractors continued to work in the same area while Bluegrass Bit completed this precise demolition work safely and successfully.
Death Valley Stadium Expansion
Bluegrass Bit was contracted to help with the updating of Louisiana State University’s Tiger Stadium (AKA Death Valley Stadium). Using a combination of Brokk robotic hammers and diamond wire saws, we cut the enormous upper deck into precise sections for removal.
Dumbarton Bridge Seismic Retrofit
The Dumbarton Bridge in the San Francisco Bay Area needed a seismic upgrade which required cutting the existing pier into six individual sections, each weighing roughly 85 tons. This was accomplished using diamond wire saws. Once the pieces were cut and removed, we used our largest Brokk robotic hammers (Brokk 330) to break up the footers.
Contact Bluegrass Bit for Your Precision Demolition Needs
When you need demolition services in tight spaces, robotic hammering can be particularly useful. This is one of the many solutions Bluegrass Bit can put to work to accomplish your project safely, affordably, and on schedule.
Founded in 1979, Bluegrass Bit has revolutionized the precision demolition and decommissioning business through its non-explosive methods and techniques for concrete and metal cutting. Our solutions operate in some of the harshest environments and serve clients worldwide. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
