Air Connection for Underwater and Tunnel Applications

ACDE® Europe – Air Connection for Underwater and Tunnel Applications

Maximum operational safety for hydraulic breakers underwater

Wilen (Sarnen), May 2025 –
ACDE® Europe now offers a professional solution for demanding underwater or high-moisture applications:
the new Air Connection system for ACDE® Europe BLTB hydraulic breakers.

By maintaining controlled internal air pressure, the system prevents water from entering the impact chamber – an essential protective measure for durability and performance in underwater or tunnel environments.

System Components: The BEILITE® Underwater Operation Concept

✔ Air dryer – Removes moisture from the pressurised air and prevents corrosion inside the breaker
✔ High-pressure air tank – Ensures stable and continuous air supply
✔ Air compressor – Delivers the required airflow throughout the entire working cycle

How the Air Connection Works

✔ Dry, pressurised air is fed into the cylinder chamber through a dedicated air channel
✔ The resulting counter-pressure reliably prevents water ingress
✔ Air interruption safety: automatic shutdown of the breaker to prevent dry firing
✔ Easy retrofitting thanks to a standardised connection interface

Optional: Specially Coated Underwater Piston

For all BLTB-5-W Series models, ACDE® Europe offers an extremely robust underwater piston:

✔ Corrosion-resistant special coating – Protection against water, pressure, and particles
✔ Long service life in wet environments – Ideal for quay construction, shoreline reinforcement, and underwater demolition
✔ Only for underwater use – Installation at the factory or by authorised partners

This piston solution is unique on the market and highlights ACDE® Europe’s commitment to innovation.

Technical Advantages of the Air Connection

✔ Protection against corrosion and water damage
✔ Specially coated piston for wet environments
✔ Operational safety at diving depths of up to 30 m
✔ Compatible with all BLTB-5-W “W” models
✔ Extended maintenance intervals in underwater applications

Typical Applications

✔ Underwater demolition: bridges, foundations, quay structures
✔ Tunnel and civil engineering in damp or flooded conditions
✔ Offshore and specialist deep-foundation projects
✔ Excavation in water-filled or flooded construction pits