Different Methods of Concrete Demolition

Concrete demolition requires the use of specialized tools. Concrete contractors often work with a range of techniques to ensure the project is completed on time, within budget and safely.

One of the most common methods involves a crane and a wrecking ball, which is dropped or swung into buildings to break them apart. This method is effective but creates a lot of dust, noise and vibration.

Crane and Wrecking Ball Demolition

A spherical steel wrecking ball is suspended from a crane or other tall construction equipment by thick cables. Movement from the equipment causes the wrecking ball to swing at a structure, destroying it in the process.

The metal sphere is formed through a pressure forging process, creating hard steel that can smash into concrete structures. The massive device is used on buildings and other large structures that are too big to be dismantled by other means.

Skilled, licensed demolition professionals operate the controls that hurtle wrecking balls into structures at high speeds. This method of destruction requires intense precision, because a misplaced move could miss the target and hit something else instead.

In recent years, the wrecking ball has become less common for demolition work. Long-reach excavators and specially designed wrecking ball attachments have taken over much of the job that was once done by crane and wrecking ball. However, this technique is still needed for some jobs, especially when the building is too tall for a long-reach excavator to reach.

Machine-Mounted Breaker Demolition

Machine-mounted breaker demolition uses hydraulic breakers that are mounted on excavator attachments to split up concrete and rock materials. These hydraulic breakers operate much like a big jackhammer, cutting materials into smaller pieces that can be more easily hauled away for recycling or reuse. They can also be used in situations where blasting would not be appropriate due to safety, environmental or logistical concerns.

Breakers have several tools that can be swapped out depending on the task at hand. The moil point, which resembles a pencil tip, is ideal for breaking hard concrete reinforced with rebar. A chisel point, which looks more like a screwdriver, can be placed into cracks and between rebar to separate material.

Another tool available on some breaker machines is a diamond wire saw, which is a very efficient way to cut through thick concrete structures such as dams and bridges. It cuts through concrete with a continuous loop of diamond wire that is driven by an electric, gasoline or diesel motor. The wire saw generates little dust, noise and vibration, making it ideal for work in inhabited areas.

Thermic Lance or Water-Jetting Demolition

Thermic lances and water-jetting demolition involve using a nozzle to cut concrete elements into smaller pieces. This method causes minimal impact on other structures and the environment, emitting less noise and dust.

This technique is ideal for tearing down massive structures and bridge decks. However, its use is often limited by the size of the crane and available working space, as well as proximity to power lines.

It is also necessary to ensure that the structure’s foundation remains intact, as removing it too soon can lead to structural damage or collapse. Lastly, a demolition permit is usually required by the local government agency. It is important to have a professional handle the permitting process and conduct an engineering survey of the structure prior to demolition to determine its condition and potential risk. Additionally, it is critical to wear proper safety equipment including protective gloves, eyewear, ear plugs and face masks. Long hair should be tied back to prevent it from being caught in machinery.

Explosives Demolition

Using explosives can reduce the time and cost it takes to bring down concrete structures, especially those that are very tall or wide. However, this method is not appropriate for every situation and must be considered carefully.

Concrete demolition with a wrecking ball combines a crane and a 13,500-pound ball, which is either dropped or swung against the structure that needs to be destroyed. This method is more effective than using a hammer or bulldozer, but it still creates a lot of dust, noise and vibration.

Workers using this method must have extensive safety training and personal protective equipment, including steel blast mats that stop flying debris. Workers must also be able to identify any chemicals or other dangerous substances hidden within the structure, and know how to handle them properly. The demolition site must be protected with barriers to prevent workers from entering dangerous areas, and should be well lit and marked. A hazard assessment must be completed before the project starts to identify existing and potential hazards.

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