DemTech gives concrete shears from NPK a second life

The demolition and recycling industry today is inseparable from sustainable construction. What about the tools used for circular demolition? Arthur Polak of Zoeterwoude-based DemTech BV believes that sustainable handling of equipment items is mandatory. 

"Since the tools being worked with in the industry are themselves part of the sustainability chain, our focus is on proper maintenance and where possible a total overhaul of equipment pieces," Arthur explains. A logical choice, as depreciation and replacement with new equipment is a form of capital destruction. Thus, an NPK SV-65 XR concrete cutter from the rental fleet was given a second life at DemTech. Better said: a completely new life.

Factory new again

The NPK SV-65 XR was first put into service in 2014 and has done its job for 10 years. "For someone else it might be obvious to write off and scrap the concrete cutter, but with the expertise we have in-house, a total overhaul was the better option for us," explains the co-owner of DemTech. "When we talk about a total overhaul, we mean simply making this powerhouse factory new again."

The job ended up taking about 130 man hours. The list of parts replaced is impressive: all hydraulic components were resealed, the engine, feedthrough and complete cylinders with the iconic NPK power boosters as well as all pins and bushings were serviced or replaced. The frame work was addressed and for the complete makeover, painting the implement completed the picture.

Same guarantee

Arthur indicates that the total cost is less than 60% from purchasing a new, comparable concrete cutter. That adds up to quite a profit, and factory new at DemTech also means that the warranty on the remanufactured piece of equipment is the same as a newly delivered one. "In the case of this NPK model, the total cost came to 60% of the new price because this is a special concrete shear. For more regular equipment items, the price for refurbished is on average half of the new price. So always interesting, considering the warranty we give."

The 6,625 kg concrete cutter is part of DemTech's own stock and is used for fast and flexible rental. When extra power is needed on the job or as a bridge on a project. Asked about the pieces of equipment DemTech can overhaul, the answer is, "Basically any piece of equipment we supply ourselves. Again, overhaul is the most sustainable option and the great thing is that it keeps our technicians working. Of course, we work with deadlines and a deal is a deal. We ensure that overhaul work is always finished on time, so that a demolition job is not delayed."