10-17-2025, 05:06 PM
Quick Insight
The insulation blanket inside the Allied Rammer S29 hydraulic hammer serves primarily as a noise-dampening layer for urban applications. While it does not affect core hammer performance, removing or modifying it may expose grease ports and simplify maintenance—but could increase noise and vibration.
Allied Rammer S29 Background and Design Purpose
The Allied Rammer S29 is a mid-size hydraulic breaker designed for excavators in the 13–18 ton class. Originally developed by Rammer (a Sandvik brand) and distributed by Allied Construction Products in North America, the S29 was engineered for versatility in demolition, trenching, and rock breaking. Its compact profile and reduced noise output made it popular in municipal and “city” environments where sound regulations are stricter.
The S29 features:
Function of the Insulation Blanket
Operators have reported the blanket sliding down and covering grease ports. Some have resorted to chiseling access holes to maintain lubrication. While effective short-term, this can damage the blanket and compromise its function.
Recommended approaches:
Removing the blanket entirely will not affect the hammer’s impact force or hydraulic function. However:
In Vancouver Island, a contractor mounted an S29 on a JD590D excavator for seasonal rock breaking. After noticing the blanket obstructing grease ports, he removed it entirely. The hammer continued to perform well, but nearby residents complained about increased noise. He later installed rubber matting panels with Velcro backing, restoring some sound suppression while keeping ports accessible.
Conclusion
The insulation blanket inside the Allied Rammer S29 is not essential for hammer operation but plays a meaningful role in noise and vibration control. For operators in remote or industrial zones, modifying or removing it may simplify maintenance. In urban settings, retaining or replacing the blanket with accessible alternatives ensures compliance and operator comfort. Thoughtful adaptation can balance performance, serviceability, and environmental impact.
The insulation blanket inside the Allied Rammer S29 hydraulic hammer serves primarily as a noise-dampening layer for urban applications. While it does not affect core hammer performance, removing or modifying it may expose grease ports and simplify maintenance—but could increase noise and vibration.
Allied Rammer S29 Background and Design Purpose
The Allied Rammer S29 is a mid-size hydraulic breaker designed for excavators in the 13–18 ton class. Originally developed by Rammer (a Sandvik brand) and distributed by Allied Construction Products in North America, the S29 was engineered for versatility in demolition, trenching, and rock breaking. Its compact profile and reduced noise output made it popular in municipal and “city” environments where sound regulations are stricter.
The S29 features:
- Impact energy of approximately 3,000 joules
- Operating pressure around 160–180 bar
- Blow rate of 400–800 bpm depending on carrier flow
- Sound-suppressed housing with internal insulation
- Grease ports for tool bushing lubrication
Function of the Insulation Blanket
- Noise Reduction
The primary role is to absorb and dampen impact noise. This is critical in urban zones where decibel limits are enforced.
- Vibration Isolation
The blanket also reduces transmitted vibration to the carrier boom, improving operator comfort and reducing wear on pins and bushings.
- Thermal Buffering
In some models, insulation helps regulate internal temperature, especially during prolonged use.
- Grease Port Obstruction
Over time, the blanket may shift or sag, covering grease ports and complicating maintenance. This is a common issue in older units or those used intermittently.
Operators have reported the blanket sliding down and covering grease ports. Some have resorted to chiseling access holes to maintain lubrication. While effective short-term, this can damage the blanket and compromise its function.
Recommended approaches:
- Secure the Blanket
Use high-temperature adhesive or mechanical fasteners to hold the blanket in place. Avoid obstructing moving parts.
- Trim Strategically
Carefully cut access holes using a hot knife or gasket punch. Ensure edges are sealed to prevent fraying.
- Replace with Custom Panels
Fabricate removable sound panels using rubberized matting or foam insulation. This allows easier access and targeted noise control.
Removing the blanket entirely will not affect the hammer’s impact force or hydraulic function. However:
- Noise levels may increase by 5–10 dB, depending on substrate and carrier.
- Vibration may be more noticeable, especially on older excavators with worn bushings.
- Resale value may decrease if the unit is marketed for urban use.
In Vancouver Island, a contractor mounted an S29 on a JD590D excavator for seasonal rock breaking. After noticing the blanket obstructing grease ports, he removed it entirely. The hammer continued to perform well, but nearby residents complained about increased noise. He later installed rubber matting panels with Velcro backing, restoring some sound suppression while keeping ports accessible.
Conclusion
The insulation blanket inside the Allied Rammer S29 is not essential for hammer operation but plays a meaningful role in noise and vibration control. For operators in remote or industrial zones, modifying or removing it may simplify maintenance. In urban settings, retaining or replacing the blanket with accessible alternatives ensures compliance and operator comfort. Thoughtful adaptation can balance performance, serviceability, and environmental impact.