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Automatic adjustments
Another feature found in many breakers is automatic power adjustment, referred to by some manufacturers as material-sensing technology, automatic variable flow, etc. The concept behind the technology focuses on increasing or decreasing the cycle of the piston based on the resistance of the intended target.

For example, if you're breaking a soft material, you may not need the full impact of the tool. "The attachment automatically changes the speed and impact energy [based on] how much energy is needed to break the material," says Elliott. This improves production, since you're not wasting impact energy on material that doesn't need the full energy the breaker can produce.

Even with the availability of automatic adjustment, Meisel stresses the importance of matching the breaker to the job and the carrier. "We work with customers to get the right size of breaker because that will give them the best efficiency," he states.

"Understand what features are on the machine and if the features of a particular breaker will increase your production and decrease your maintenance costs," adds Elliott.

Size to material and conditions
When sizing a hammer, pay attention to the applications and types of materials the hammer will encounter.