Breaking below the surface: powering dock expansion at water park, Mexico
Along the Caribbean coastline of Quintana Roo, Mexico, the turquoise waters around the famous eco‑archaeological park hide a demanding construction site beneath the surface. Here, deep underwater excavation was essential to expand docks and facilities for cruise ships, an operation where traditional tools simply would not last. To meet these demands, the project team relied on Chicago Pneumatic CP 1290 pneumatic handheld breakers, powered by CPS 350-175 portable air compressors, designed to perform in extreme, below sea level conditions.
Underwater rock breaking with a CP 1290 pneumatic handheld breaker during dock expansion in Mexico
Working under saltwater pressure, with strict environmental requirements and limited room for error, the project team faced a clear question: Which equipment could survive where failure was not an option?
The partnership began in 2018, when a dock expansion project was launched at the water park to support increasing cruise ship traffic. Continuous underwater rock breaking in harsh marine conditions made equipment selection critical from day one. Since then, Chicago Pneumatic has remained the trusted choice, with construction divers continuing to rely on CP 1290 pneumatic breakers for underwater operations at the site.
How Chicago Pneumatic entered the dive
Before final selection, rigorous resistance testing was conducted. Pneumatic breakers from multiple manufacturers were dismantled, assessed, and benchmarked. The Chicago Pneumatic CP 1290 pneumatic handheld breaker stood out because of its simplified construction and reduced number of components.
In corrosive underwater conditions, fewer parts meant fewer failure risks. Its durable build specialized for construction divers, and reasonable market cost made it the clear choice for the application.
The equipment was supplied through Chicago Pneumatic’s authorized dealer, Construcción & Minería, ensuring close local support throughout the project. Paired with CPS 350-175 portable air compressors and biodegradable oil, the solution met both operational and environmental requirements.
Built for below sea level
The dock expansion required continuous rock breaking and fragmentation below sea level, carried out by specialized construction divers. Saltwater corrosion, constant pressure, and limited access made maintenance difficult and downtime costly. Every component had to perform reliably, dive after dive. Adding to the challenge, local authorities mandated the exclusive use of biodegradable oil, with certified proof of origin, to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. The project demanded not just power, but responsibility.
Performance in extreme conditions
In total, thirty CP 1290 pneumatic handheld breakers and six CPS 350-175 portable air compressors were deployed on site. The equipment operated continuously in aggressive conditions, where saltwater, pressure, and specialized handling could easily expose design weaknesses. Instead, the breakers delivered a consistent impact of power and steady operation for the divers, helping reduce fatigue during prolonged underwater tasks.
Beyond performance, cost-effectiveness also played a key role. The solution provided long-term value without compromising quality or safety, an important factor in projects where equipment operates far from standard jobsite conditions.
This project was highly demanding, both technically and environmentally. We recommended Chicago Pneumatic because the CP 1290 and CPS 350-175 combination offered durability and compatibility with biodegradable oils. Their continuous performance underwater confirmed the right choice for this application.”
Supporting environmentally responsible construction
Environmental compliance was mandatory. Certified biodegradable oil was required, along with documentation to meet regulatory standards. Chicago Pneumatic’s compatibility ensured seamless compliance without operational compromise. This balance of performance and responsibility reinforced confidence in both the equipment and the partnership.
This application demonstrates how engineering and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. With the CP 1290 pneumatic handheld breakers and CPS 350-175 portable air compressors, we focused on durability, simplicity, and compliance, so our customers can get the job done, even in extreme, regulated environments.
Underwater excavation pushes equipment beyond conventional limits. For the dock expansion at eco‑archaeological park, success depended on pneumatic handheld tools that could endure pressure, corrosion, and continuous use, without compromise. By choosing Chicago Pneumatic, the project team found a solution that matched the realities below the surface: robust, reliable, and purpose-built for extreme applications. It’s proof that when the environment works against you, the right equipment makes all the difference.