Sandvik hammer makes welcome return at Gurney Slade
HAVING briefly switched allegiance to a competitive hammer brand, the purchase of a Sandvik BR4511 hydraulic breaker has marked a welcome return for Somerset-based quarry operators Morris & Perry, who are using the new hammer at their Gurney Slade Quarry, near Radstock.
The 20ha Carboniferous limestone quarry, which is approximately 40m deep and operates on six levels, is currently being expanded to the north and east as part of a long-term redevelopment plan to enhance productivity and improve the environmental standing of the site.
Morris & Perry purchased their first Rammer unit in 1994 and since then have operated E66, E68 and M18 models. ‘We like the products and we know the cost of maintenance is a lot better than the opposition,’ said quarry manager Dave Roberts. ‘They are better built and…simply far more durable than the competition.’
Mr Roberts admitted that the company had bought a competitive breaker last year, but said it proved to be a disaster. ‘It was an experience that is best forgotten,’ he commented.
The new BR4511, which was supplied by local Sandvik breaker dealers Kellands Plant Sales, is fitted to a Hitachi 650LCH hydraulic excavator and used for secondary breaking at the face.
Mr Roberts added that while his previous experience with Sandvik Rammer products was positive, it was the relationship with the Sandvik sales and aftersales team, who support Kellands, that truly won him over.
