How Hydraulic Hammers Work and Where They’re Used

How Hydraulic Hammers Work and Where They’re Used

When it comes to breaking through the toughest materials on a jobsite, few tools are as effective—or as essential—as the hydraulic hammer. Sometimes called a breaker, this powerful attachment is a must-have in demolition, excavation, and mining operations. But what exactly makes a hydraulic hammer work? And where can you get the most value from one? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Hydraulic Hammer?

A hydraulic hammer is a heavy-duty percussion tool powered by hydraulic fluid from an excavator or skid steer. It delivers rapid, high-impact blows to break apart rock, concrete, asphalt, and other hard materials. Unlike traditional jackhammers, hydraulic hammers attach directly to your heavy equipment, giving you more mobility, control, and striking power.

How It Works: The Basics of Hydraulic Impact

At the heart of a hydraulic hammer is a piston driven by hydraulic pressure. Here’s how it works:

  1. Hydraulic fluid enters the hammer, building pressure in a chamber.

  2. Once the pressure reaches a set point, it forces the piston downward.

  3. The piston strikes a tool (usually a chisel or moil point) that transfers the energy directly into the material below.

  4. The cycle then resets rapidly, creating a continuous hammering action.

This simple yet powerful system allows for efficient energy transfer and repeated impact—perfect for tough breaking applications.

Where Hydraulic Hammers Are Used

Hydraulic hammers are found across a wide range of industries and job sites. Here are some common applications:

  • Demolition: Breaking down old buildings, concrete slabs, foundations, and walls.

  • Excavation: Clearing hard ground, trenching in rocky areas, or loosening frost.

  • Mining & Quarrying: Splitting boulders, breaking oversized rocks, and secondary reduction.

  • Roadwork: Removing pavement, asphalt, or bridge decks during infrastructure upgrades.

  • Utility Installation: Digging through rock or concrete for pipe, cable, or sewer lines.

Wherever there’s tough material to break—hydraulic hammers deliver.

Choosing the Right Hammer for the Job

Not all hydraulic hammers are created equal. Factors like carrier weight, operating pressure, impact energy, and tool type all play a role in selecting the right model. At Rocxgroup, we offer a variety of Rocxbreaker hydraulic hammers engineered for durability, efficiency, and field-tested performance. Whether you need a compact breaker for tight spaces or a high-tonnage model for big demolition jobs, we’ve got you covered.

Why Rocxgroup?

Hydraulic hammers are more than just tools—they’re force multipliers. With the right hammer and support from Rocxgroup, your crew can take on bigger jobs, break through tougher material, and stay productive no matter the challenge.

Browse Rocxbreaker Hammers Today

Need serious breaking power on your next job? Explore our lineup of Rocxbreaker hydraulic hammers and attachments at RocxGroup, or Contact Our Team for expert recommendations based on your equipment and project needs.

For inquiries, partnerships, or to request more information, please reach out to us at

+1 877-617-7368 or visit our CONTACT PAGE