Understanding Hydraulic Breakers: The Importance of Nitrogen Charging
Hydraulic breakers, also known as hydraulic hammers, are essential tools in the construction and demolition industries. They allow for efficient and powerful breaking of concrete, asphalt, and other hard materials. However, to ensure optimal performance, proper maintenance, particularly nitrogen charging, is crucial.
The Role of Nitrogen in Hydraulic Breakers
One of the key components that determine the efficiency of a hydraulic breaker is the accumulator, which is filled with nitrogen gas. This gas plays a pivotal role in storing energy generated from the hydraulic system during operation. When the hydraulic breaker strikes, it compresses the nitrogen, which in turn absorbs and stores energy from the piston. On the subsequent blow, this stored energy is released, providing an additional boost to the impact force.
Why is Nitrogen Charging Essential?
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Energy Storage: The accumulator’s ability to store energy is directly linked to its nitrogen charge. If the nitrogen level is low, the accumulator cannot function effectively, leading to reduced impact force and inefficient operation.
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Preventing Damage: Insufficient nitrogen levels can result in a lack of cushioning, potentially causing damage to the hydraulic breaker components. This can lead to increased wear and tear, necessitating costly repairs.
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Operational Efficiency: A properly charged hydraulic breaker operates at peak efficiency, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity on job sites.
How to Charge Nitrogen in Hydraulic Breakers
Charging nitrogen into a hydraulic breaker requires specific procedures and equipment. Here’s a simplified guide on how to do it:
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Safety First: Always wear protective gear and ensure the work area is safe.
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Use the Right Equipment: Utilize a nitrogen charging kit specifically designed for hydraulic breakers. This kit typically includes a pressure gauge and a charging hose.
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Check Current Pressure: Before adding nitrogen, check the existing gas pressure within the accumulator using the gauge.
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Charge the Accumulator: Connect the nitrogen tank to the charging kit and open the valve slowly to allow nitrogen to fill the accumulator. Monitor the pressure gauge to ensure the correct pressure is reached—typically between 14-16 bar for Soosan breakers and 4-6 bar for Furukawa breakers.
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Seal and Test: Once charged, securely close the valve and check for any leaks or issues. Ensure that the hydraulic breaker operates smoothly before putting it back into service.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
If you notice that your hydraulic breaker is not performing as expected, it may be time to check the nitrogen levels. Some signs that indicate a nitrogen charge issue include:
- Decreased impact force
- Increased vibration during operation
- Unusual noises from the breaker
In such cases, a regas or recharge with nitrogen gas is recommended. If problems persist, further inspection of the accumulator and associated components may be necessary.
Conclusion
Hydraulic breakers are powerful tools that require careful maintenance to ensure they perform effectively. Nitrogen charging is a critical aspect of maintaining these machines, providing the energy needed for efficient operation and preventing damage. Whether you’re using hydraulic breakers for construction or demolition, understanding the importance of nitrogen and how to properly charge it can significantly enhance your equipment’s performance and longevity.
For professional services related to hydraulic breaker repairs and nitrogen charging, consider reaching out to specialists like RAW Plant, who offer comprehensive solutions for all brands of hydraulic hammers and breakers.
