Fleet Management: How One South African Contractor is Shaking Things Up

A Hitachi 470LCR-5G with the OilQuick system demolishing a bridge structure under shutdown conditions. (PHOTO: Jet Demolition)

In the demolition sector, efficient fleet management is key to meeting the demands of fast-paced and complex projects.

South Africa’s Jet Demolition has adopted a forward-thinking approach, combining advanced technology, in-house innovation, and meticulous maintenance to remain at the forefront of the industry.

Standardising equipment fleets

Jet Demolition’s strategy begins with its carefully curated fleet of Hitachi excavators, standardised across the company since 2022.

By focusing on 20 t, 40 t, and 50 t machines, the company ensures consistency in performance and versatility. Each class of excavator is selected based on its ability to handle diverse tasks and attachments.

“We standardised on Hitachi because their machines consistently meet the high demands of our projects,” explained Equipment Asset Manager Bradley Slooten.

“The 50-ton class, for example, is particularly versatile and forms the backbone of our operations.”

Fleet investment

And when it comes to highly specialist machines, Jet Demolition has recently added a standout addition to its fleet; a new high-reach Hitachi ZX350LCK-6 excavator.

Sourced directly from the factory in Japan, this machine is the first of its kind in Africa. Designed specifically for high-reach demolition, it offers a reach of 23 m and a tool capacity of 2,600 kg at full extension. Its factory-built configuration ensures both efficiency and safety, as it eliminates the compromises often associated with retrofitted alternatives.

“It’s a game-changer for our operations, providing both high-reach capabilities and standard excavation options,” said Bradley.

The ZX350LCK-6 also includes multiple booms, enhancing its versatility across a wide range of demolition tasks. From heavy structural dismantling to high-reach operations, the machine is designed to handle the complex requirements of modern demolition projects.

Bradley Slooten, Equipment Asset Manager at Jet Demolition. (PHOTO: Jet Demolition)

Bradley highlighted its importance to Jet Demolition’s strategy: “This addition to our fleet allows us to take on challenging projects with greater confidence, knowing we have equipment built to perform under demanding conditions.”

Equipment maintenance programme

Central to the company’s operations is a robust maintenance programme designed to maximise machine lifespans and minimise downtime.

Originally following a 6,000-hour trade-in policy, Jet Demolition has now extended its equipment’s operational hours to over 10,000.

This is achieved through preventative maintenance, including periodic disassembly and rebuilding to factory standards.

“A strict maintenance programme coupled with using good quality parts and lubricants is the secret to prolonging the life of our equipment,” said Bradley.

“We spend significant time and effort inspecting machines after every project to ensure they’re ready for the next one.”

This commitment to maintaining peak performance across the fleet is further bolstered by Jet Demolition’s integration of advanced technologies, such as the OilQuick automatic quick coupler system, which it says has redefined efficiency on-site.

Jet utilises a variety of attachments with its Hitachi fleet. (PHOTO: Jet Demolition)

The Swedish-developed system allows operators to seamlessly switch between hydraulic attachments, such as hammers, shears, and magnets, from the cab in a matter of seconds.

This significantly reduces downtime and improves safety by eliminating the need for manual interaction during attachment changes.

“The OilQuick system has revolutionised how we operate,” said Bradley.

“It not only saves time but also allows us to do more with fewer machines on-site, improving overall productivity.”

Additionally, the company has integrated advanced work tools into its fleet - including the next-generation Montabert V4700 hydraulic hammers, which replace the V4500 range.

Hydraulic magnets have been added to streamline site cleanups and scrap metal handling, providing greater efficiency in post-demolition processes.

However, Jet Demolition’s in-house engineering team has also developed its own bespoke tools, such as boom extension arms, to increase machine reach and adaptability for heavy demolition tasks.

“Our team’s ability to customise equipment in-house gives us an edge,” Bradley noted. “For instance, our extended boom arms allow us to take on projects that would be impossible with standard configurations.”

A Hitachi 470LCR-5G with the OilQuick system demolishing a bridge structure under shutdown conditions. (PHOTO: Jet Demolition)

While technology drives many of Jet Demolition’s advancements, operational efficiency and safety remain the ultimate goals.

“Anyone in the industry knows that downtime is costly,” Bradley explained.

“By investing in tools and practices that minimise delays, we’re not only saving money but also delivering better results for our clients.”

The company’s focus on reducing downtime, streamlining processes, and enhancing worker safety sets it apart as a leader in the region’s demolition sector.

By prioritising versatility, innovation, and rigorous fleet management, Jet Demolition is not only shaking up traditional approaches but also setting new standards for what can be achieved in demolition projects across Africa.