A machine hall is the central place where heavy equipment is safely stored, serviced, prepared, and made ready for deployment. In the context of demolition, deconstruction, rock cutting/processing, and natural stone processing, it serves simultaneously as a workspace, shelter, and logistics hub. Here, hydraulic tools such as concrete demolition shears or hydraulic rock and concrete splitters are inspected, components are repaired, materials are sorted, and resources are organized. A well-planned machine hall increases occupational safety, efficiency, and equipment availability—from power units to specialized shears.
Definition: What is meant by a machine hall
A machine hall is a covered, permanent structure with sufficient load-bearing capacity, utilities, and protective functions, designed to accommodate, operate in stationary mode (e.g., test bench), maintain, and store machines and tools. In demolition-related trades, this includes areas for heavy carrier machines as well as zones for hydraulics, cutting and splitting technology, lifting devices, spare parts, and hazardous material storage. Core elements include the load-bearing structure, floor slab, crane and lifting equipment, ventilation, fire protection, energy and hydraulic connection, and regulated traffic routes.
Structure and functions of a machine hall for demolition technology
Machine halls in demolition and deconstruction combine requirements from mechanics, hydraulics, occupational safety, and logistics. They must safely absorb loads, reliably provide utilities, and support job preparation—from concrete demolition – deconstruction with concrete demolition shears to controlled splitting with stone splitters.
Typical functional areas
- Maintenance and assembly zone for hydraulic tools (e.g., changing cutting jaws, seals, wedge bodies)
- Testing area for cylinders and testing of hydraulic power units with defined pressure and leakage tests
- Storage and setup areas for attachments such as combination shears, Multi Cutters, steel shears, and tank cutters
- Material zones for consumables and spare parts (bolts, hoses, couplings, lubricants)
- Logistics areas for incoming and outgoing components, recycling fractions, and tools
- Safety and cleaning areas for dust suppression, noise reduction measures, and decontamination
Construction types and load-bearing structures
The construction method influences load reserves, installation speed, and later adaptability. Steel halls with rafter and purlin systems are common, as are hybrid constructions of steel and concrete. Decisive is the predictable absorption of point and line loads, for example via crane runway or machine foundation.
Planning aspects of the load-bearing structure
- Design for crane and lifting loads (bridge cranes, pillar jib cranes, rigging)
- Low vibration levels for assembly work with intensive testing
- Reserve for future expansions (additional crane girders, media bridges, mezzanines)
- Weather and corrosion protection in dust- and moisture-laden areas
Hall floor, foundations and load transfer
Hall floors must withstand high point loads, maneuvering forces, and local impact loads. This applies especially when setting down concrete demolition shears, stone splitting cylinders, or heavy power units.
Structural requirements
- High compressive strength and abrasion resistance, with hard wear zones if necessary
- Cast-in anchors for test benches and assembly fixtures
- Flat, low-joint traffic surfaces for safe equipment guidance
- Clean drainage with containment (sumps, edge zones)
Crane systems, lifting equipment and in-plant logistics
Safe handling of heavy attachments requires suitable lifting systems. Cranes enable millimeter-precise positioning of cutting and splitting tools at test benches and work stands.
Selection criteria
- Load capacities with reserve for unusual centers of gravity
- Fine positioning for assembly work on hydraulic components
- Compatibility with lifting accessories and rigging
- Clear travel paths and designated staging areas for tool changes
Power and media supply
Hydraulics, power supply, and compressed air supply are the backbone of the machine hall. Clear media concepts are needed to safely test stone and concrete splitters and operate test benches.
Media concept
- Power supply with adequate capacity and distribution close to workstations
- Hydraulic connection with secure couplings, pressure relief, and drip containment
- Compressed air supply for cleaning, pneumatic tool operation, and controls
- Fluid management: oil, emulsions, water—separate circuits and containment systems
Occupational safety, environmental protection, and fire protection
Cutting, splitting, and separating generate noise, dust, and potential ignition sources. A coordinated protection concept is mandatory. The information provided is general and does not replace an individual assessment by authorized bodies.
Key protection goals
- Noise reduction measures through structural means and work organization
- Dust suppression and dust extraction at workplaces with fine particles
- Fire protection with suitable extinguishing agents and clear escape routes
- Safe storage of oils, cleaners, and auxiliary materials
Processes: setup, testing, documentation
Quality arises from defined processes. For concrete demolition shears, stone splitting cylinders, or Multi Cutters, recurring steps apply from visual inspection to pressure testing.
Example sequence at the test bench
- Cleaning and visual inspection (jaws, blades, wedge and piston surfaces)
- Hydraulic check: tightness, pressure behavior, temperature development
- Functional test of movements, end positions, safety valves
- Documentation: measurement results, parts replaced, release or hold note
Material flow, storage, and labeling
Clear storage logistics save time, reduce search effort, and increase safety. Labeling and clearly defined staging zones are essential.
Recommendations for the hall layout
- Arrange equipment storage zones by weight, frequency, and compatibility
- Position setup stations close to media connections
- Structure spare parts by assemblies (hydraulics, mechanics, electrics)
- Separate sorting areas for deconstruction material from assembly zones
Maintenance and life cycle
Regular care preserves readiness for deployment. Especially with concrete demolition shears and stone and concrete splitters, clean sealing surfaces, proper oil management, and timely replacement of wear parts extend service life.
Key measures
- Inspection plans with intervals for mechanical and hydraulic checks
- Calibrated measuring equipment for pressure and displacement
- Clean, dry storage of sensitive components
- Training for rigging and assembly work
Special requirements by field of application
Depending on the field of work, priorities in hall organization and equipment vary. The following points show typical real-world patterns.
Concrete demolition and specialized deconstruction
- Focus on jaw and blade changes on concrete demolition shears
- Test stations for power units with load simulation
- Dust protection concept for fine concrete dust
Strip-out and cutting
- Fine tools and precise clamping fixtures for combination shears and Multi Cutters
- Separate areas for sparks and sensitive storage
- Clean separation of metal, plastic, and composite fractions
Rock excavation and tunnel construction
- Robust floors for impact-loaded parts and split wedges
- Moisture management and corrosion protection
- Test benches for stone splitting cylinders with high pressure stability
Natural stone extraction
- Generous open areas for block manipulation
- Tool care for edge and split accuracy
- Protective storage aids to avoid surface damage
Special operations
- Flexible setup for tank cutters and specialized shears
- Expanded safety zones where residual hazardous substances may be present
- Additional clearance measurement and cleaning procedures
Ergonomics and work organization
Well-designed workplaces reduce absenteeism and increase quality. Ergonomic working heights and short walking distances are the most effective levers.
Design principles
- Height-adjustable assembly stands and rotatable mounts
- Lighting with glare-free, uniform illumination
- Color coding for routes, hazard spots, and media points
- Standardized tool kits for each equipment type
Sustainability and resources
Resource conservation starts in the machine hall: through durable tools, clean media circuits, and thoughtful waste logistics.
Practical levers
- Filter systems to extend oil service life
- Remanufacturing of suitable components with documented history
- Separate collection systems for metal, mineral material, and plastics
- Energy-efficient drives and lighting
Planning and permitting notes
Building regulations, occupational safety, and environmental protection set the framework for using a machine hall. These aspects are general and do not replace case-by-case review by authorized authorities.
What to focus on in practice
- Proof of load-bearing capacity and fire protection, escape and rescue routes
- Evidence of containment and drainage
- Noise control toward neighbors and employees
- Hazardous material storage with appropriate containers and labeling
Practice-oriented checklist for hall equipment
The following list supports the structured outfitting of a machine hall for demolition and splitting technology.
- Structure and floor: load reserves, anchor points, low vibration levels
- Lifting equipment: crane runway, rigging, certified load attachments
- Media: power supply, hydraulics, compressed air supply, water—safe and clearly arranged
- Test benches: pressure ranges, barriers, measuring equipment, documentation
- Safety: extinguishing agents, dust extraction, safety equipment provision, route guidance
- Logistics: staging areas, shelving, labeling, material separation
- Maintenance: cleaning station, parts washing, lubrication station, spare parts
- Organization: training materials, operating instructions, inspection plans
Interfaces to equipment and tools
Device-specific requirements are incorporated during hall planning. For concrete demolition shears, stable setup stations and jaw holders are useful. For stone and concrete splitters, pressure-stable test connections, secure mounts, and shielding are important. Power units benefit from quiet, low-vibration locations with good accessibility. For steel shears, combination shears, Multi Cutters, and tank cutters, dedicated mounting fixtures enable safe and ergonomic work.
Quality assurance and traceability
Traceable maintenance and clear approvals increase operational safety. Digital test records, serial number management, and visual inspection checklists help keep conditions transparent and support decision-making.