Sandvik BB7900R breaker boom system breaking oversize rock at a grizzly in an underground mine, helping keep material moving through the mining process.
Sandvik BR2577i hydraulic breaker breaking rock.
offerings based on site drawings and the application, and making targeted modifications where particularly demanding conditions require more robust builds for larger hammers. Productivity, efficiency and longevity “From a productivity perspective, our attachments help prevent interruptions to the mining process by breaking oversize rock and keeping material moving. This is underpinned by almost 50 years of hydraulic breaker expertise, robust design and continued innovation.” A key differentiator is the company’s in-house heat- treatment capability, with its metallurgists developing and controlling processes designed to enhance the strength and durability of critical components. Combined with effective lifecycle management, this helps ensure reliable performance in demanding mining environments. Digital technologies are also playing an increasingly important role. “Our RD Guard system uses vibration sensors to monitor hammer performance and operating hours, providing customers with greater visibility of equipment condition and maintenance requirements. By identifying performance trends and potential issues early, customers can better plan maintenance, maximise availability and extend equipment life.” Longevity ultimately depends on the application and operating conditions. While hammers in some infrastructure applications have been in service for 20 years, the typical lifespan of a complete boom, power pack and hammer system in mining is around five to seven years. During this time, key components can be rebuilt or replaced while the main structure remains in service, helping to extend the life and value of the equipment. “Our goal is to be a long-term partner in oversize rock management, looking beyond individual attachments and boom systems to develop solutions that improve safety and efficiency across the process. Ultimately, we aim to lead globally in helping customers manage oversize more safely and efficiently,” concludes Karlsson. n
before servicing is required and reducing operational interruptions. Customisation strategy With safety embedded in the design process, Karlsson explained that the company works closely with customers to ensure equipment meets their specific requirements. While customers ultimately define the parameters, Sandvik guides them through the process, helping to identify solutions that enhance both safety and operational performance. “Every application is different, so we start by understanding the customer’s specific requirements, including the installation location and dimensions. We then use the customer’s drawings and operational data to select the most suitable boom and hammer from our standard range. Where a particularly specific application requires it, we can make targeted modifications to the standard solution. The aim is not to offer a one-size-fits-all product, but to ensure the right solution is matched to each application.” According to Karlsson, Sandvik matches its products to specific rock characteristics, material dimensions and site requirements. The process includes determining requirements based on the size of the oversize material, selecting standard
November 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za MODERN MINING 33
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker