The pneumatic pick is a powerful air-powered demolition tool designed to break and chip hard materials such as rock, concrete, asphalt, and slag. Powered by compressed air, the pneumatic pick converts air energy into mechanical impact, making it efficient and durable in demanding environments. It is a staple in construction, mining, metallurgy, road maintenance, and shipbuilding.
Two models stand out in the market: the G10 pneumatic pick and the G7 pneumatic pick. The G10 is a heavy-duty model, offering greater impact force for tough demolition tasks, while the G7 is lighter and better suited for medium-duty, longer-duration work or projects in confined spaces. Both are designed for rugged conditions, but proper use and maintenance are essential to get the best out of them.
The pneumatic pick traces its origins back to early pneumatic hammers developed in the late 19th century, primarily for mining and tunneling. Early designs were large and cumbersome, but advances in metallurgy and air compression systems made them lighter, more efficient, and safer. The G10 and G7 are products of decades of refinement, benefiting from improved vibration control, better air efficiency, and enhanced durability of internal parts. Modern pneumatic picks are built for versatility—capable of switching between chiseling rock, cutting asphalt, or chipping slag with a quick chisel change.
A pneumatic pick operates on compressed air delivered by an air compressor. The air enters the cylinder via an air valve, forcing the piston to move back and forth at high speed. Each piston stroke strikes the chisel shank (pick rod), transmitting impact to the material and breaking it apart.
Cylinder and Piston – The heart of the pneumatic pick, responsible for generating impact force.
Handle – Ergonomically shaped for operator control, sometimes with vibration dampening.
Chisel Holder (Chuck) – Secures the chisel in place during operation.
Air Valve System – Controls air intake and exhaust.
Chisel (Pick Rod) – The working tip that contacts and fractures the material.
Lubrication System – Reduces friction and wear, extending tool life.
The simplicity of this mechanism means the pneumatic pick is less prone to mechanical failure compared to more complex tools, making it ideal for harsh, dusty, or damp environments.
Used to break reinforced concrete, old flooring, foundations, and walls during renovations or demolitions. The G10 pneumatic pick excels at heavy reinforced structures, while the G7 is agile for lighter work and vertical chiseling.
In mining, the pneumatic pick breaks rock, loosens ore, and assists in controlled blasting operations. Its air-powered nature reduces electrical hazards in explosive environments.
Foundries use pneumatic picks to remove slag and refractory linings from furnaces. The tool’s ability to operate in high-heat, dusty environments makes it ideal for this purpose.
Pneumatic picks are used to break up old asphalt, chip away damaged concrete slabs, and prepare roadbeds for resurfacing.
In shipyards, pneumatic picks clean rust and marine growth from hulls, and remove old coatings or damaged steel.
Check the Air Supply – Ensure the compressor provides stable pressure (0.5–0.63 MPa).
Inspect the Air Hose – Use a 16 mm inner diameter hose, no longer than 12 m, clean and free from obstructions, with leak-free connections.
Lubricate Before Use – Inject pneumatic tool oil into the inlet to protect moving parts.
Examine the Chisel – Look for burrs, bends, or cracks and replace if necessary.
Wear Protective Gear – Safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, and a dust mask when required.
Lubricate Before Use
Always inject lubricant before operation to ensure smooth piston motion and prevent wear.
Maintain Spare Units
Have at least three pneumatic picks available. Limit each unit’s continuous run to 2.5 hours to prevent overheating.
Correct Handling
Grip the handle firmly and press in the chiseling direction, ensuring the chisel stays against the chuck.
Use the Right Air Hose
Stick to a 16 mm inner diameter, maximum 12 m length hose to maintain airflow.
Avoid Full Insertion
Do not insert the chisel completely into the material to prevent dry firing.
Handling a Stuck Chisel
Shut off the air supply before freeing the chisel to avoid tool damage.
Choose the Right Chisel
Match chisel length to material hardness—the harder the material, the shorter the chisel.
Remove Burrs Promptly
Grind or replace damaged chisels immediately to avoid jamming.
Avoid Dry Firing
Operate only with the chisel in contact with material to prevent internal damage.
Lubricate before and after each use.
Check for air leaks or loose connections.
Clean exterior surfaces.
Inspect the chisel holder for wear.
Examine piston and cylinder condition.
Check air valves for wear or debris.
Store in a dry environment to prevent rust.
Before long-term storage, clean thoroughly, lubricate, and seal the air inlet.
In cold conditions, ensure moisture is drained from the compressor tank to prevent ice in the air line.
Loss of Power
Often due to low air pressure or leaks. Check the compressor, hose, and fittings.
Chisel Jamming
Caused by burrs, overheating, or incorrect chisel length. Lubricate and match chisel to the material.
Excessive Noise
Indicates internal wear or loose fittings. Inspect piston, chisel holder, and replace worn parts.
Abnormal Vibration
Often linked to uneven chisel wear or worn pistons. Replace worn components promptly.
Air Leaks
Replace damaged seals and check hose fittings.
Training operators in correct technique greatly extends tool life and reduces injury risk. Key practices include:
Using body weight rather than excessive arm force.
Keeping the pneumatic pick aligned with the chiseling direction.
Taking breaks to avoid fatigue in extended shifts.
Rotating operators in high-vibration tasks.
Operate within recommended air pressure.
Keep chisels sharp and in good condition.
Avoid overloading the tool with unsuitable tasks.
Store in clean, dry conditions.
Follow manufacturer’s maintenance schedules.
The recommended working pressure is usually between 0.5 and 0.63 MPa. Excessive pressure causes unnecessary wear, while insufficient pressure reduces performance.
The G10 offers higher impact force and is designed for heavy-duty demolition. The G7 is lighter, easier to handle, and better for medium-duty work or longer shifts.
Lubricate before every use, and for prolonged operation, reapply lubrication every few hours to ensure smooth performance.
While it can operate in damp or wet environments for short periods, it should not be submerged for long durations, as moisture can cause internal corrosion.
Use the correct chisel type and length for the material, avoid overheating, and ensure proper lubrication during operation.
With proper usage and maintenance, a pneumatic pick can last for many years, even under heavy industrial workloads.
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