Views: 0 Author: Kun Tang Publish Time: 2026-02-04 Origin: Jinan YZH Machinery Equipment Co., Ltd.
A hydraulic rock breaker is a high-impact tool designed to endure extreme punishment. However, even the most robust Rock Breaker Booms System is not indestructible.
In the mining and aggregate industries, equipment failure doesn't just mean repair costs—it means stopped production. A jammed crusher waiting for a broken boom to be fixed can cost thousands of dollars per hour in lost revenue.
The secret to longevity isn't just buying quality equipment; it's a disciplined maintenance routine. This guide outlines the critical steps to keep your rockbreaker firing efficiently for years to come.
Preventative maintenance starts before the machine is even turned on. A 10-minute inspection at the start of every shift can prevent catastrophic failures.
Lubrication is the lifeblood of a rockbreaker.
The Task: The tool bushing and the chisel (tool) are subject to immense friction. Without adequate grease, steel-on-steel contact will weld the components together or cause rapid wear.
The Rule: If using a manual system, grease the tool every 2 hours of operation. For stationary Rock Breaker Booms Systems, ensure the automatic lubrication system is filled and pumping correctly.
Pro Tip: Always use the high-moly chisel paste recommended by the manufacturer, not standard bearing grease.
The Check: Look for hydraulic oil leaks. Even a "weeping" hose can signal an impending burst.
The Fix: Tighten loose fittings immediately. Replace any hose that shows signs of abrasion or cracking. A blown hose sprays hot oil, creating a fire hazard and an environmental mess.
The Check: The vibration of a rockbreaker naturally loosens bolts over time.
The Focus: Check the side bolts (tie rods), the mounting adapter bolts, and—for stationary systems—the anchor bolts securing the pedestal to the concrete foundation.
When your rockbreaker isn't performing, here is how to diagnose the issue quickly.
Symptoms: The breaker is cycling, but the blows feel weak and aren't cracking the rock.
Likely Cause: Low Nitrogen Gas pressure in the backhead (accumulator).
Solution: Check the gas pressure using a charging kit. Recharge to the manufacturer's specification. Note: Gas leakage often indicates a worn seal.
Symptoms: The boom arm shakes violently during operation.
Likely Cause: Worn tool bushings.
Solution: Measure the gap between the tool (chisel) and the bushing. If it exceeds the wear limit, replace the bushing immediately. Operating with a worn bushing allows the tool to strike at an angle, which can snap the tool or crack the piston.
Symptoms: The sound changes to a metallic "clack-clack" when the tool is not pressed against the rock.
The Danger: This is the #1 killer of rockbreakers. The piston strikes the tool without resistance, sending shockwaves back into the breaker body.
Solution: Train operators to stop the pedal immediately once the rock fractures.
Beyond daily checks, these operational habits will define the lifespan of your equipment.
Hydraulic systems hate thermal shock.
The Practice: In cold climates, run the hydraulic system at idle for 10–15 minutes before operating the breaker. This allows the oil to reach operating temperature and viscosity, ensuring seals are lubricated and flexible before high-pressure work begins.
The Practice: If a rockbreaker is removed for maintenance or storage, never leave it lying flat on the ground where dirt can enter.
The Method: Store it vertically if possible. If it must be horizontal, ensure the piston is pushed fully inside to prevent rust on the polished surface.
The Practice: While daily checks can be done on-site, internal components like the piston, seals, and diaphragm require a clean-room environment.
The Schedule: Schedule a professional service for your Rock Breaker Booms System every 1,000 impact hours (or annually) to replace seals and inspect internal tolerances.
Maintenance is not a cost; it is a profit protector. A well-maintained rockbreaker delivers consistent power, consumes less fuel/energy, and ensures your crushing plant never stops due to a blockage.
Whether you are running a mobile attachment or a heavy-duty stationary unit, the discipline you apply to maintenance directly correlates to the reliability of your operation.
Invest in durability.Explore our range of heavy-duty Rock Breaker Booms Systems, engineered with maintenance-friendly features to keep your downtime low and your production high.
Q1: How often should I grease my rockbreaker?
A: For manual greasing, every 2 hours of continuous operation is the standard. However, for high-production environments, we strongly recommend an automatic lubrication system, which injects a small amount of grease every time the breaker fires.
Q2: What is "Blank Firing" and why is it bad?
A: Blank firing occurs when the breaker continues to cycle after the rock has broken, or when the tool is not firmly pressed against the rock. It causes the piston to hit the tool retainer pins rather than the rock, causing severe internal damage to the breaker body and tie rods.
Q3: Can I use standard chassis grease on my rockbreaker?
A: No. You must use "Chisel Paste" (usually containing Molybdenum Disulfide or Copper). Standard grease melts under the extreme heat and pressure of the tool bushing, leading to metal-on-metal contact and rapid failure.
Q4: How do I know when to replace the tool (chisel)?
A: Replace the tool when the length has worn down to the manufacturer's limit, or if cracks appear. Also, check the wear on the shank (the top part inside the breaker). If the shank is worn, it will damage the piston.
