Breaker
Breakers, also known as a hammers or hoe rams, are powerful percussion tools used for breaking up concrete or rock. They can be fitted to excavators and are powered by auxiliary hydraulic systems. They are similar in function and operation to hand-held pneumatic drills.
Breakers are typically used in application such as:
- The demolition of buildings.
- Breaking up pavements or roads.
- Trenching in rock.
- Breaking frozen ground
- Secondary reduction of blasted material.
There are two basic designs for mounted breakers – side-plate and boxed:
- Side-plate breakers have two slabs of steel secured to either side of the breaker mechanism. This arrangement usually leaves the breaker’s front and back open.
- Boxed breakers enclose the breaker mechanism in an outer casing, which acts as a shock-absorbing barrier. This has the advantage of providing more protection from debris. They also tend to be quieter, and there is a reduction in shock and vibration.
Breaker manufacturers tend to use an ‘Impact Energy Class’ rating to identify different breakers, which is loosely based on the breaker’s weight.
Breakers can also be categorised based on the piston-firing system that they use. The three basic types are:
The working tool should be sufficiently lubricated, and cleaned from abrasive dust that can get into the lower portion of the breaker. Some breaker models are fitted with automatic lubrication systems, or a sealing system can be installed if required.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.
UKCW London to tackle sector’s most pressing issues
AI and skills development, ecology and the environment, policy and planning and more.
Managing building safety risks
Across an existing residential portfolio; a client's perspective.
ECA support for Gate Safe’s Safe School Gates Campaign.
Core construction skills explained
Preparing for a career in construction.
Retrofitting for resilience with the Leicester Resilience Hub
Community-serving facilities, enhanced as support and essential services for climate-related disruptions.
Some of the articles relating to water, here to browse. Any missing?
Recognisable Gothic characters, designed to dramatically spout water away from buildings.
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this.
Comments
Awesome, but to improve service quality and operational efficiency you need an autolube system for a hydraulic hammer. Grease pump kit includes bolts to mount on the body, 1 hose only and grease pump with a cartridge. Easy to install, no need to make routine greasing procedure every 2 hours. Safe and secure https://buyaftermarketparts.com/articles/71_auto_grease_pumps_for_hydraulic_breakers