How Do Jackhammers Work?

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Even if modern demolitions use a lot of methods and tools today, the use of jackhammers still remains. Whether the demolition professionals are planning to break a concrete or asphalt or make holes so that they can place their explosives, the tool that can help them achieve this is a jackhammer. The mechanism of a jackhammer is straightforward, and this has remained unchanged for almost 200 years.

Varieties of a Jackhammer

Another name for jackhammer is demolition or pneumatic hammer. Jackhammers usually operate differently depending on the power source. Jackhammers today are mainly air-powered and magnetic. But when you compare it to old times, jackhammers were solely steam-powered. In this article, we will be focusing on the air-powered jackhammer as this is the most popular type.

Internal Jackhammer, External Bit

Jackhammers work by repeatedly forcing an internal hammer against a bit. In this process, an air-powered piston will push the hammer so that it will have a contact with the bit. As the result, the device will be producing a very loud noise.

The mechanism here would be that the piston will force the hammer next to the bit and the bit will pulverize the material that the operator plans to.

Compressed Air Power

Jackhammers contain internal piston that is pressed by an extremely compressed air. The moment that the hammer goes to its lowest point after it hit the device, several air escapes after the hammer strikes and the valve flips.

Good Vibrations

Majority of the bodies of jackhammers are made from forged steel allowing a stronger cylinder that has colliding and moving components. The different parts that make a jackhammer’s body are locked together – a type of construction that is resistant against intense vibrations that is produced by the hammer.

Types of Bits

Demolition professionals can easily change the bits of a jackhammer if it wears out or if they need a different style. If they are planning to pulverize a hardened material, they can opt for pointed bits. On the other hand, flat-tipped bits can be use to control the finishing of the edges. Furthermore, there are various styles of bits that one can use and this will depend on the depth needed, the material that will be crushed, and other factors.

Jackhammering Hazards

Jackhammers can be  the most dangerous equipment in a demolition site. Also, this equipment can be harmful to your hearing, and it can also launch some debris in your eyes. Furthermore, the vibrations that your body can feel from collision of the hammer can also be dangerous. As a matter of fact, this can result to a condition called Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). So, to prevent this syndrome, the person who will be operating a jackhammer should take frequent breaks in every single session.

Safety First!

The demolition team must ensure that they take extra precautions seriously. Also, jackhammer operators must wear eye protection, ear protection, hard hat, and protective boots. At Conway AR Demolition Contractor, we assure you that we take all necessary precautions to safeguard a safe work environment. If you want to demolish something, be sure that you call (501) 259-7997.

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