Proper processing attachment is key in demolition time efficiency. Commercial and industrial demolition outfits may be allotted extremely short time spans for completing projects. For instance, the Colorado Department of Transportation recently used an Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) approach to replace the Pecos Street Bridge over heavily trafficked I-70. To minimize disruption to the public, it was determined that the bridge should be constructed in a single weekend.
This put the contracted demolition firm Staker Parson Cos. on a very short schedule of just eight hours for demolition of the old structure. However, upon arriving on site Staker Parson realized the ground was not prepared to support heavy demolition equipment. Four hours later, the grounds were level enough to begin demolition—and just four hours remained to remove thousands of tons of concrete and rebar. With the right attachments, Staker Parson was able to meet their deadline, and the overall bridge construction project finished four-and-a-half hours ahead of schedule.
Even when demolition schedules aren’t so tight, selecting the proper attachment is cost-effective way to conduct building demolition. Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine, demolition contractors can save time and money by choosing the correct attachment.
Portland Demolition Experts on How to Select the Proper Demolition Equipment
- Thoroughly Research Job Site Location. Understanding space limitations at the job site ahead of time can minimize problem solving on site. Nearby structures, equipment weight limits, and local regulations can all restrict the use of demolition equipment. For instance, noise restrictions may in place if a school or hospital is near the job site. In that case, hydraulic attachments would be a better equipment option, as they aren’t as noisy as pneumatic attachments. Similarly, multiprocessors with interchangeable jaw sets may be best for tight spaces, where excess demolition equipment can’t be stored on site. Through careful planning and evaluation of the scope of the project, demolition contractors can appreciate which equipment will be most effective.
- Material on Site. While multiprocessor attachments are versatile, they cannot compete with processors designed for a specific material. A pulverizer is perfect for breaking up reinforced concrete and separating materials, while a cutter attachment can cut steel. Magnetic attachments are useful for moving and sorting ferrous metals. Each project will contain a unique mixture of materials; therefore, the most effective demolition contractors will carefully vet each project and take time choosing the right equipment for the site’s structures. As an example, Staker Parson Cos. began work on the Pecos Street Bridge with Combi Cutters and breakers. Beginning in the middle of the bridge, the cutters and breakers worked their way outward. When the breakers hit rebar, the cutters were moved to slice through the bar, facilitating a fast work schedule. Understanding the old bridge’s post-tensioned concrete box girder design allowed the demolition contractors to devise an effective demolition approach.
- Maximize Existing Fleet. Different excavators have different weight ranges, which determines attachment compatibility. A 20,000-ton excavator may tip over if used with an attachment for a 45,000-ton excavator. When selecting equipment for a job, demolition managers must match equipment efficiency with safety ratings. Additionally, demolition firms may find that they can save time and money by purchasing equipment to do more processing on site. For instance, our concrete crusher is a boon to our operational efficiency; by crushing concrete into gravel on site, we can eliminate the need to hire a separate concrete crusher outfit. Individual project effectiveness is greatly influenced by long-term equipment purchasing.
By understanding demolition sites and their own equipment capabilities, industrial demolition contractors can cut costs and maximize efficiency. We’ve been demolishing structures across the West Coast since 1997. After hundreds of jobs, we have the know-how to spot and avoid potential project snags. We appreciate how equipment inventory impacts productivity. And we’re always looking for new ways to improve our process. Contact us today to learn how our demolition experts can complete your next demolition project efficiently.