EQUIPMENT SPOTLIGHT | JULY 2026 Material Handlers

by MARY M. THORNTON
maryt@americanrecycler.com

In the construction and demolition (C&D) industry, material handlers play a crucial role as the primary link between construction and debris management. These specialized machines differ from standard excavators, requiring high-reach capabilities and specialized hydraulics to handle the heavy, awkward loads typical of C&D operations. Secondary demolition is critical in preparing concrete and steel for downstream processing. After structures are torn down, large concrete pieces must be reduced and separated to meet recycling requirements and/or to prepare material for downstream use.

Astec/Breaker Technology Inc. (BTI)

Engineered as high performance excavator attachments, Astec MCP Series hydraulic pulverizers are purpose‑built for secondary demolition and concrete recycling applications. The MCP Series allows operators to grab large concrete pieces directly from rubble piles and aggressively pulverize them, breaking concrete down while exposing and separating embedded reinforcing steel. This process produces crushed concrete suitable for reuse as base material while generating clean scrap steel for recycling.

Terry McKague, sales manager, commented that “Fast, controlled operation is central to MCP Series performance. Large‑diameter hydraulic cylinders deliver strong crushing force without the need for complex intensifier valves, providing consistent power across demanding applications. A regenerative valve further increases productivity by redirecting oil flow during non‑load movement, significantly boosting cylinder speed and improving overall cycle times. This enables operators to process material efficiently while maintaining precise control during separation work.”

McKague also claims that strategically designed jaws and replaceable wear components enhance fragmentation and extend service life in abrasive C&D environments. Integrated cutting blades allow operators to shear reinforcing steel during processing, simplifying tramp metal handling and reducing the need for additional equipment. As scrap yards typically require rebar to be completely free of concrete, the MCP Series enables contractors to reduce material to a size that ensures full separation, eliminating the need for further handling or reprocessing.

“Designed for durability, speed and separation quality, Astec’s MCP Series hydraulic pulverizers are widely used by C&D contractors focused on maximizing material recovery while keeping secondary demolition operations efficient and flexible. In demanding recycling environments, they provide operators with consistent performance when clean steel separation is essential,” McKague concluded.

SENNEBOGEN LLC

Sennebogen offers a wide range of material handlers for C&D, from the easy-to-transport, multifunctional 825 E to the heavy-duty 870 Demolition. This latter model boasts impressive reach distances of up to 65 feet. All Sennebogen C&D machines feature the exceptional visibility of the Maxcab. This cab can tilt up to 30 degrees or elevate up to 20 feet, providing operators with a clear view of high-reach work.

Constantino Lannes, president, said that effective material handling in C&D hinges on a well-balanced combination of capability, versatility, sustainability and efficiency. “One of the common challenges lies in setup and transport. Large, high-reach machines often need disassembly for transport, which can be cumbersome. Sennebogen addresses this issue with telescopic undercarriages that retract for transport and expand for stability, along with self-assembly systems that minimize the need for assist cranes. As versatility is key in the C&D sector, using a machine that can perform multiple roles significantly boosts profitability. The Sennebogen Vario Tool system and quick-change couplings enable a single machine to rapidly switch between shears, pulverizers, buckets and sorting grabs,” stated Lannes.

He added, “Maintaining these machines in the typically harsh job site environment is essential. Dust and debris can clog radiators and cause hydraulic failures. The industry often relies on ‘reactive maintenance,’ which means waiting for failures to cause costly downtime. Sennebogen offers a suite of related solutions, including technical inspection service and preventive maintenance assistance. Additionally, the SENtrack Telematics system allows operators to remotely monitor fuel use, idle time and predictive maintenance needs, to help machine owners maximize their investment by keeping their equipment operational. Sourcing skilled operators capable of handling complex, multi-functional machines is a significant barrier to productivity. To address this, the Sennebogen Academy offers a comprehensive range of courses, including operator and technical training.”

Sierra International Machinery manufactures a full line of material handlers including the T308, T409, T510, and T815, designed to support high-volume recycling and demolition operations.

Built with simplified controls, operator visibility and ease of maintenance in mind, the machine is designed to reduce downtime and improve jobsite productivity. The T510 Material Handler (59,000 lbs. with a 43 feet reach) is widely suited for demolition and recycling applications, offering a balanced combination of reach, lifting capacity and fast cycle times that allow operators to efficiently sort, load and move mixed materials such as structural steel, concrete and recyclable metals.

Sierra International Machinery

“End users in the demolition and recycling sector face ongoing challenges, including inconsistent material streams, limited jobsite space and the need to maintain production while meeting safety and environmental standards. Equipment must be easy to mobilize, assemble quickly and be capable of handling a wide range of materials without sacrificing efficiency. Material handlers like the T510 address these challenges by providing versatility and reliability in demanding environments. The current business climate reflects increasing demand for efficient material separation and higher recovery rates as recyclers look to maximize value,” Tom Hickson, director of material handler sales, explained.

Hickson noted how Industry trends also include electrification, emissions compliance and technology integration as regulations continue to evolve and impact equipment selection. “It is important to adapt to regulatory changes and improving operational efficiency through advanced equipment. As sustainability efforts continue to increase, material handlers remain a critical piece of equipment in modern demolition and recycling operations, helping facilities move more material, recover more value and operate more efficiently. Sierra’s equipment is developed from experience we’ve gained, operating a recycling and demolition facility, ensuring the machines are built for real-world conditions and continuous use. We’ve spent decades manufacturing equipment for the C&D and recycling industries across North America, supporting processors where uptime is critical.”

Published in the July 2026 Edition of American Recycler News