Product feature: Xcentric XR50 Ripper

Date: 22.07.2022

For Russell Thurlow, their new Xcentric XR 50 Ripper has increased production at the Ward Quarry near Te Kauwhata

The XR50 has increased production at the Ward Quarry

Two common denominators among the many attributes shared by the Boss Attachments range of brands are improved productivity and lower operating costs, both of which are of significant importance for contractors battling the rapidly rising cost of fuel and other operational inputs.

For Russell Thurlow, manager of the Ward Quarry near Te Kauwhata, their new Xcentric XR50 Ripper has delivered on both these fronts as well as a number of others.

Ward Quarry manager Russell Thurlow

"When we first purchased the XR50, we didn’t realise how versatile it can be, and although initially intended for only limited work, it’s actually being used on an almost permanent basis," says Russell.

The Ward Quarry, which is part of the Ward Demolition Group, has been in operation for more than 20 years and during that time, has supplied quality aggregates for major projects such as Springhill Prison, Hampton Downs, and the widening of State Highway One.

Prior to the arrival of the Xcentric XR50, blasting and a single tine ripper mounted on a CAT D10 were the primary methods of extraction at the quarry. "The XR has really complemented these extraction methods as well as delivering a number of other operational benefits," says Russell.

"In the first instance, it can operate in areas that the D10 would never go, and on top of that, it allows us to clean up toes and peel at least an extra three metres off the back of every blast."

The XR50 accesses hard-to-reach sections of the quarry

As Russell further explains, retrieving an extra three metres of depth across the entire face of each blast adds up to a massive increase in annual yield. Also, the option of reducing the drill depth of blast holes can provide another major saving on overall blasting costs.

Featuring a patented system of ‘Impact Technology by accumulation of energy’, the Xcentric Ripper is in most instances up to five times more productive than hydraulic breakers and has been specifically manufactured for high production mining applications where continuous work shifts, reliability, and excavator operator comfort are paramount.

During the past few years, these versatile attachments have delivered significant added value to a number of New Zealand contractors and quarry operators. "Despite the unit being purchased second-hand from another contractor, Paul from Boss Attachments has been fantastic to deal with, and we appreciate his assistance in showing us how to get the very best out of our XR50," says Russell.