APE Mini hammers are purpose-built air-powered impact pile drivers. The hammers are available in two sizes, the APE No.1 weighing in at 90 Kgs, and the new APE No.2, which weighs 270 Kgs. These products are used frequently by specialist waterways contractors, but are equally popular with first time users; as they are simple to use.
The main issue is handling the weight of the unit. This is easy, if you have a mini excavator handy, but for those who do not, a gantry can be constructed or an A frame hired for this purpose. These hammers are ideally suited for the installation of plastic sheet piling, particularly those sections that are 300mm wide such as the Ultra U, Europile and Ultra Z.
Often, hand-held hammers will appear more appealing, especially in areas where access is restricted. APE does hire hand-held units, but maintain that these are for applications where there are no other options. It is preferable that the APE Mini Hammer is considered for this application, due to the fact that once on the pile, the operator does not need to hold on to the unit - reducing hand/arm vibration issues. The hammers do require a constant source of lubrication, but are exceptionally easy to use - they only have three moving parts and are extremely durable.
These products require a compressor with a 125cfm flow rate, at a standard 90 psi pressure (around 6 bar). In the hire of this equipment, construction plant insurance is required. Please contact APE for alternative insurance arrangements.
APE Mini Hammers also include a clamping guide system. This system acts against impact recoil, which improves the efficiency of installation. The wide construction of the leg guide arrangement enables a fully universal compatibility with all sheet piles, trench sheets, plastic piling, timber piles and tubes. The clamping guide is an important advancement, as it enables the hammer to grip the pile in use. The absence of such a guide system, as exemplified in the design of hand-held post drivers, requires the operator to resist all recoil forces. If this is not done, such post drivers will fall off the pile.
APE Mini Hammers are purpose built for driving sheet piling, and therefore provide greater compatibility than handheld units, which really are a make do solution.