Demolitions with excavator represent a fundamental pillar in modern construction, thanks to their effectiveness and versatility. These are operations that, depending on the needs, can range from the total removal of buildings to the controlled demolition of specific parts of a structure. In this context, the role of the excavator is central, as it offers a combination of power, precision and adaptability, making it an essential tool.
This article will explore in depth the techniques, tools, operational phases and costs associated with demolitions with excavator, offering a complete guide for those who wish to delve deeper into this topic.
Types of demolition
Demolitions are mainly divided into two categories: uncontrolled demolition and controlled demolition. They differ not only in the techniques used, but also in the objectives and implications in terms of safety and environmental impact.
Uncontrolled demolition
Uncontrolled demolition is a fast and direct method, mainly used when a building must be completely razed to the ground. This approach involves the use of heavy tools such as pneumatic hammers, demolition using earthmoving machinery and, if necessary, the use of explosives. Although it is a fast technique and suitable for large-scale interventions, it has some critical issues, including:
- Emission of dust and pollutants that represent a risk to the health of operators and people passing by the construction site.
- High environmental impact due to the uncontrolled dispersion of debris, which requires careful management to minimize damage.
Controlled demolition
When the goal is to demolish only some parts of a building or prepare a structure for redevelopment, a controlled demolition is performed. This approach uses more precise techniques, such as:
- The use of hydraulic jacks to fragment the reinforced concrete in a targeted manner.
- Cutting systems to isolate specific sections without compromising the integrity of the remaining structure.
- Chemical crushing that uses expanding materials to break up the concrete without vibrations.
The excavator, in both modes, is a key element thanks to its ability to mount different equipment and adapt to the most varied needs.
Demolition excavators: characteristics and models
The excavators designed for demolition stand out for their robustness and flexibility. In most cases, tracked models are used to ensure stability and mobility even on difficult terrain, such as those covered with rubble.
Demolition Excavator Key Features
- High-reach booms: With a height of up to 18 metres, they are ideal for demolishing large buildings from the top down.
- Tilting cabs: Allow the operator to maintain an optimal view during work.
- High hydraulic power: Essential for handling heavy equipment such as demolition grapples and hydraulic hammers.
Specific Demolition Excavator Models
Some of the best excavators on the market include:
- CAT 340 and 352. Equipped with a straight boom for precise work.
- CAT 340F UHD and 352 UHD. High-reach excavators designed for tall buildings.
- Volvo EC750EHR and EC480EHR. Models specifically designed for heavy and complex demolition.
These machines offer the perfect balance of power, precision and safety, making them indispensable on today's construction sites.
Demolition equipment with excavator
In addition to the quality of the excavator, a crucial role is played by the equipment that can be mounted on the arm. Each accessory expands the capabilities of the excavator, making it a multifunctional machine capable of dealing with any need.
- Demolition grapples. Ideal for gripping and crushing reinforced concrete structures, they are operated by a hydraulic system that guarantees a powerful and precise grip.
- Sorting grapples. Used to separate debris, they have a grid structure that allows optimal visibility during the operation.
- Hydraulic shears. Essential tools for cutting steel or reinforced concrete structures. These shears help reduce the volume of scrap, simplifying transport and disposal.
- Demolition hammers. Used for heavy work, they use a percussion movement to precisely break hard materials such as rocks or concrete.
- Breakers. Specialized equipment for cutting diaphragms or concrete piles, leaving the iron reinforcements intact.
- V-cutter. Suitable tool for demolishing foundations and very hard materials.
The 6 phases of a demolition with an excavator
Demolitions are complex operations that require detailed planning to ensure safety and efficiency. Each intervention develops through different phases.
1. Preliminary investigation
Before starting the work, one or more experts carry out a preliminary inspection to carefully evaluate the characteristics of the building and the surrounding context. During this phase, several fundamental aspects are analyzed: the type of construction, the materials used, the structural state of the property and the presence of any critical elements in the surrounding areas, such as economic activities, homes, roads, parking lots, electrical cables or warehouses. Furthermore, the presence of active connections, such as gas, electricity or water, is checked, which must be deactivated before starting the work.
This information is essential to determine the most appropriate demolition method, ensuring safety and efficiency.
2. Construction site setup
Once the preliminary assessment is completed, the construction site is set up. We begin by delimiting the area of intervention, installing barriers or fences to protect both workers and any passers-by. Next, an area dedicated to the temporary storage of rubble is identified and prepared, which will then be removed and disposed of according to the established procedures. If necessary, scaffolding or other support structures are erected to facilitate demolition operations. At the same time, containers are set up to serve as offices or changing rooms for staff and chemical toilets are positioned, thus ensuring full operability and the comfort of the work team.
3. Removal of hazardous materials
It is not uncommon for buildings slated for demolition to contain hazardous materials, such as asbestos, flammable substances or other contaminants that represent a serious risk to health and safety. For this reason, before starting the demolition operations, specialized companies intervene to remove these materials safely and in compliance with current regulations.
4. Demolition work
In this phase, excavators take center stage, carrying out key operations such as demolishing walls and removing debris. To ensure safety, demolition follows a methodical process: starting from the roof, gradually demolishing the upper floors, and then moving down to the foundations.
This approach allows for control over the entire process, minimizing the risk of accidental collapses.
In the case of very tall buildings, high-reach excavators are used, specifically designed to operate at great heights, ensuring precision and safety.
5. Debris management
Once demolition operations are complete, the debris management begins. The excavator is used to collect and move the debris accumulated on the construction site with a scoop bucket. The debris is then sorted and separated based on its materials, to facilitate its correct disposal or recovery.
6. Site Restoration
The final phase involves leveling the land and preparing it for any new construction.
How much does demolition with an excavator cost?
In general, the average cost of demolition in Italy is between 10 and 50 euros per cubic meter of demolished material, to which an additional 5-10 euros per cubic meter must be added for the costs of disposing of the rubble. However, these values can vary significantly depending on the specific characteristics of the project.
Factors that influence costs
A number of factors contribute to the final price of a demolition:
- Size of the structure. A large building requires more time, resources and machinery, increasing the overall cost.
- Materials used. The presence of hazardous materials, such as asbestos, requires specialist work and additional costs for remediation and safe disposal.
- Accessibility of the site. The location of the building plays a crucial role. Operating in a busy urban area or where there are overhead power lines, for example, requires additional precautions. Similarly, demolitions in remote areas, such as mountains or isolated countryside, can lead to higher costs due to the difficulty of transporting machinery and materials.
How to request a quote
To obtain an accurate quote, the demolition company needs some key information from the outset, including:
- Location of the building
- Number of floors and total floor area
- Condition of the building
- Timescale required
This information allows specialists to accurately assess the scope of the work and provide a tailored quote.
Excavator demolition is a complex but essential process for many construction projects. Thanks to the versatility of excavators and the wide range of available equipment, these operations can be carried out in a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly way.
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