“The EML 45 will help us with bids as we
move into 2020. We have a project already on
the boards for next year where we will likely
make some changes to the design and use it.
This winter, having this excavator-mounted
hammer will give us an edge in the bidding process
and will help us get those jobs.”
Berminghammer’s EML 45 impact hammer
came on board at Wilco Superior this year. One
of the most versatile hammers on the market
today, Wilco has been using the device since the
end of June, making them one of the first companies
to take possession of this innovative tool.
The EML line-up offers pile driving lead systems
for 30-ton, 45-ton and 60-ton excavators.
These systems stand out thanks to their significant
cost benefits over traditional fixed leads on
smaller remote jobs of 10 to 20 piles.
“The gains are found in the significantly
decreased costs to mobilize at the jobsite,” said
David Zanchetta, P.Eng., sales and field services
representative at Berminghammer Foundation
Equipment. He points out that with most general
contractors requiring an excavator for
on-site work, they can attach an EML to the
excavator prior to piling work. Then, when work
is finished, contractors can detach the EML and
continue using the excavator for its primary
use. “This means piling contractors can mobilize
the system with a single truckload and that
saves money.”
What makes the EML 45 a good choice for
piling contractors? “The rigs were designed
with several design criteria; to deliver enough
energy to drive piles specified for bridge piles, to be
extremely mobile, quick to rig up and eliminate the need
for crane mobilizations for small piling jobs. The uses of the
system include bridge pier and abutments, soldier pile and
lagging systems for roadway protection and piling location
areas that are sensitive to vibration,” said Zanchetta.
Zanchetta notes that the EML 45 also has a longer drop
than most systems. He says that with most systems offering a
four-foot drop, the EML 45 can be scaled to feature a sevenfoot
height. “There is no wasted space. Operators can drive
the maximum pile height using the maximum amount of
energy to get the job done.”
Another huge benefit to the EML 45 is the side levelling
feature. The system works with a swing of three degrees
making it ideal for rugged terrain and challenging sites.
“Simply, you don’t have to have the system perfectly level to
get great performance,” Zanchetta said.
Jaspers points to the challenges of the job site that were
conquered by the EML 45’s capabilities. “We were able to get
the tool installed and ready to go after a short learning/training
period, and then saw the performance greatly enhance the
speed of the work. We have also been able to easily integrate
this rig’s unique considerations into the morning safety
meetings,” he said, adding that while maintenance and safety
checklists for the EML 45 take a little bit longer each morning
COMPANY PROFILE
“The EML 45 has opened
a large window of
opportunities for us as we
move into a new year of
proposals and projects.”
– Travis Jaspers
than with their other hammers, once it is ready, the speed of
service makes up for those few minutes.
David Cramer notes that Wilco has been partnering with
Berminghammer since Wilco’s early days and has appreciated
Berminghammer’s ability to work with them to enhance
their capabilities.
“We are looking forward to the coming year and our
enhanced ability to bid on a wider range of jobs. In our line of
work, having the right tools puts us ahead of the competition
and that’s right where we want to be.”
PILING CANADA 23