EPIROC has announced a “world first” patented Intelligent Protection System (IPS), which the firm said will improve hydraulic breaker performance.
All of the company’s heavy (HB) hydraulic breakers now feature the system, described as “seamlessly” combining Epiroc’s AutoControl and StartSelect functions, to provide “simpler, more efficient, and more economical” operation.
AutoControl and StartSelect have been features on Epiroc hydraulic breakers for years. AutoControl automatically adjusts the piston stroke length. The StartSelect system offers manual switching between two modes: the AutoStart mode enables easy positioning at the beginning of the breaking cycle, and in the AutoStop mode the breaker stops automatically to avoid blank firing at the end of the breaking cycle.
Epiroc said IPS means no more manual switching. Now that the functions are combined, the breaker always starts in the AutoStart mode. When the contact pressure between chisel and material increases and AutoControl switches from a short piston stroke to a long piston stroke, IPS switches automatically to the AutoStop mode. When the chisel breaks through the material the breaker automatically shuts off and prevents blank firing. The breaking process is said to be even simpler for the operator because it automatically adapts the breaker’s operating behaviour to any working condition.
Epiroc added that IPS requires no operator intervention and the working process is not interrupted.
The avoidance of blank firing is said to eliminate mechanical strain on the carrier and extends the life of all wear components.
