FOR particularly dangerous demolition sites, a range of radio controlled Brokk robots and attachments is available from Adelaide-based Kiwi Operations Downunder. Company director, Tony Mace, says these machines are designed especially for confined space demolition.

“They enable the operator to be removed from the danger zone and eliminate the need for workers on jack hammers, or to remove the rops and fops of excavators, thus reducing lost time injuries and workers compensation claims,” he says.

“The arm system on the Brokk machines is designed to get full power from the attachment in all directions, which makes it superior to the excavator for demolishing ceilings and walls, which can calculate up to four times faster.

According to Mace, “Brokks are purpose-built demolition robots that have been in production since 1981 and are designed to take large attachments on a small machine. For example, the Brokk 180, which weighs 2,000 kg, will take a rock breaker that will fit on a 5t excavator, and a crusher that will crush 400 mm thick concrete and cut 25 mm reinforcing bars. This machine will fit through an 800 mm doorway and reach 4.8m, which makes it very versatile.

“The range also includes the Brokk 50 and 90 that will fit through a standard doorway, and the Brokk 330 which is 1,500 mm wide with a reach of 6.5m. All models will walk up stairs when fitted with rubber tracks, and all are electric powered (the Brokk 330 is also available in diesel), which eliminates fumes and engine noise. When you add the crusher, you then have true silent demolition which makes Brokk the perfect tool when working in hotels, schools, shopping centres and built-up business areas,” concludes Mace.

Source: Construction Contractor