Hydraulic Bursting in Devon
Hydraulic Bursting in Devon
Controlled Concrete Removal by DDS – Professional Hydraulic Bursting Across Devon
Diamond Drilling Services (SW) Ltd is a trusted provider of hydraulic bursting in Devon, offering a powerful, low-noise and non-percussive method of breaking reinforced concrete, brickwork, and masonry. Ideal for confined spaces and sensitive environments, hydraulic bursting is a safe and highly effective alternative to percussive demolition. Our expert operatives use modern hydraulic equipment to carry out precision structural removals across Exeter, Plymouth, Torquay, Barnstaple, Tiverton, Newton Abbot and surrounding areas.
Hydraulic bursting is widely used on both commercial and domestic projects where vibration, dust, or noise levels must be kept to a minimum. Whether removing thick walls, foundations, columns or heavily reinforced structures, DDS delivers efficient and controlled results.
Hydraulic Bursting in Devon
What is Hydraulic Bursting?
Hydraulic bursting is a silent demolition technique that breaks apart concrete and other materials by applying internal pressure. Steel or hydraulic bursters are inserted into pre-drilled holes in the structure. Once activated, the bursters expand gradually, generating high levels of pressure that cause the concrete to crack and break apart in a controlled and safe manner.
This technique is ideal for:
- Breaking thick reinforced concrete
- Controlled removal of foundations and columns
- Reducing vibration in demolition works
- Confined or sensitive locations (e.g., hospitals, basements, occupied buildings)
- Pre-demolition works to separate structural components
The process is quiet, dust-controlled, and extremely efficient – making it the go-to method for internal structural alterations or demolitions in noise-sensitive environments.
Hydraulic Bursting in Devon
How Hydraulic Bursting Works
- Diamond Drilling – Holes are drilled into the structure at strategic points using diamond core drilling techniques.
- Burster Placement – Hydraulic expansion heads or wedges are inserted into these holes.
- Hydraulic Expansion – The burster applies internal pressure (often up to 2,000 tonnes), gradually forcing the material to fracture.
- Controlled Breakage – Cracks are formed in a predictable pattern, enabling safe removal of concrete sections.
The process can be repeated across large surface areas and combined with other techniques such as diamond wire sawing for more complex removals.
Hydraulic Bursting in Devon
Advantages of Hydraulic Bursting
- Low Noise – Ideal for use in hospitals, schools, offices and residential areas
- Dust-Free – No airborne dust as there is no percussive action
- Non-Vibrating – Protects structural integrity of nearby buildings
- Highly Controlled – Precise, targeted breakage reduces risk to surroundings
- Eco-Friendly – Less energy consumption and waste than traditional demolition
- Compact Equipment – Access tight or confined spaces easily
- Safe Operation – Controlled cracking ensures minimal risk to operatives and the site
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Common Applications
Hydraulic bursting is commonly used across a variety of sectors in Devon, including:
- Structural demolition in hospitals, schools, and public buildings
- Foundation and pile cap removal
- Basement wall and floor slab breakup
- Column and beam separation
- Controlled demolition in heritage and listed buildings
- Concrete staircase removal
- Internal refurbishment projects in noise-restricted environments
Hydraulic Bursting in Devon
Towns and Locations We Serve Across Devon
DDS provides hydraulic bursting services across Devon. We have in-depth local knowledge of working in both rural and urban environments, and we understand the needs of local authorities, contractors, and private clients.
Exeter
A vibrant city with a rich heritage, Exeter sees frequent redevelopment and renovation projects. We provide hydraulic bursting services for both modern construction and sensitive listed property renovations across the city.
Plymouth
With extensive marine, defence and civil infrastructure, Plymouth often requires precise demolition works in challenging environments. Hydraulic bursting is ideal for reducing large reinforced elements without impacting surrounding services.
Torquay & Paignton
In tourist-heavy towns like Torquay and Paignton, DDS carries out internal demolitions with minimal disruption. Hydraulic bursting allows structural changes in hotels, leisure facilities and apartment blocks without affecting guests or residents.
Barnstaple
In North Devon, hydraulic bursting is used in agricultural, commercial and public sector developments, where vibration and access can be restricted.
Newton Abbot
Hydraulic bursting has been used in Newton Abbot to safely demolish basement walls, plant rooms, and foundations in areas with active utilities and sensitive neighbours.
Tiverton
In Tiverton and nearby villages, DDS supports private renovations, barn conversions and council works, using hydraulic bursting to break up thick slabs and concrete safely.
We also serve Bideford, Sidmouth, Exmouth, Honiton, Ilfracombe, South Molton, Dawlish, Okehampton and more. Our mobile units are fully equipped and ready to deploy throughout Devon.
Our Hydraulic Bursting Process
- Site Assessment – DDS conducts a full survey to assess the structure and determine safe access and methodology.
- Drilling and Setup – We drill holes using diamond drilling rigs to specified depths and positions.
- Burster Installation – Hydraulic heads or wedges are inserted and calibrated.
- Controlled Expansion – Pressure is gradually applied to split the material safely.
- Debris Management – Broken material is cleared, and the site is cleaned or prepared for the next phase of work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep or thick can hydraulic bursting handle?
Hydraulic bursting is highly effective on walls, beams, and slabs up to several metres thick. The technique can be scaled for large or dense structures.
Is hydraulic bursting safe for indoor use?
Yes. It’s a preferred method for internal demolition due to its low noise, low dust, and non-percussive action, reducing risk to people and the structure.
Is it better than traditional demolition methods?
In confined or sensitive environments, hydraulic bursting is far superior. It offers precise, predictable breaking with significantly less disruption.
Can bursting damage nearby structures?
No. Because there is no vibration or impact, it poses minimal risk to adjacent walls or floors. It’s suitable for use near load-bearing or delicate structures.
Is planning permission required?
In most cases, no. However, if structural changes are being made in listed buildings or certain planning zones, approval may be needed. We can advise accordingly.
Can you combine bursting with other techniques?
Yes. We frequently use hydraulic bursting alongside diamond drilling, wall sawing, and wire sawing for a comprehensive concrete removal strategy.
Why Choose DDS for Hydraulic Bursting in Devon?
- Over 25 years’ combined experience in controlled demolition
- Fully trained and accredited operatives (NVQ, CSCS, CHAS, Constructionline)
- Local experts with in-depth knowledge of Devon’s towns and construction sites
- 24/7 callout for urgent works and scheduled demolitions
- Modern, well-maintained equipment fleet
- Transparent pricing and reliable project timelines
At DDS, we pride ourselves on offering a service that’s safe, clean, and tailored to your specific demolition or renovation needs.
Contact Us
If you’re looking for reliable and efficient hydraulic bursting in Devon, contact Diamond Drilling Services (SW) Ltd today. We provide free site assessments, no-obligation quotations, and fast response throughout the county.
Phone: 07928 054 674
Email: [email protected]
Serving Exeter, Plymouth, Torquay, Newton Abbot, Barnstaple, Tiverton, Bideford, Sidmouth, Exmouth, Honiton and all surrounding areas.
Hydraulic Bursting in Devon – Trust DDS for safe, silent, and efficient demolition solutions.
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When it comes to hiring trained professionals for your project you can rely on Diamond Drilling Services (SW) Ltd. We guarantee a reliable, high quality, tailored service to meet our clients exact requirements. Our prices are highly competitive and we also offer out of hours services across Devon, Cornwall and further afield.
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