Trencher machine

Types of trencher machines

The trencher machine is one of the most critical machines for digging trenches precisely and quickly and is available in different types.

• Disk trenchers

  For digging typical trenches, disk trenchers use a sizable cutting wheel with many circular disks mounted on an axle. The cutting wheels spin vertically as the trencher moves forward, excavating the ground to make a trench. Disk trenchers dig trenches of various breadths and depths. They are appropriate for medium to large-scale projects where accuracy and efficiency are crucial. Additionally, they are extremely adaptable and may dig trenches for numerous uses, including pipeline setup, landscaping, and electrical cable laying. Additionally, they are a great product alternative for businesses buyers who need versatile digging equipment for a range of industry tasks.

• Chain trenchers

  Chain trenchers work by rotating a chain with embedded teeth. As the trencher advances, the chain descends, cutting the soil and excavating the trench. Chain trenchers are suitable for digging narrow and deep trenches. They are ideal for projects that require digging precise and deep trenches in hard soil or compact material. Furthermore, chain trenchers offer the ability to dig trenches in various widths and depths, making them suitable for utility installation, drainage work, and irrigation projects.

• Screw trenchers

  Inphased with screw-shaped teeth, also known as augers, that cut into the ground, expand, and remove the soil are known as screw trenchers. The soil is removed by a rotating motion, and the trench is excavated as they turn. For digging shallow to medium-depth trenches in soft to moderately hard soil, screw trenchers are employed. They are also used in a variety of industry applications where accuracy is required and excavation is needed in confined places. Farmers, landscapers, and construction professionals frequently utilize them since they provide good solutions for a variety of trenching tasks.

• Plow trenchers

  A cutting blade known as a plow shares digs into the earth as the machine moves ahead, making a shallow trench. The soil is displaced to the sides as a result of the cutting action. Soft to moderately hard soil is appropriate for plow trenchers to use. They are suited for installing cables, pipes, and irrigation lines in areas where there is soft to moderate soil and little resistance.

• Mini trenchers

  For tasks that require mobility and versatility, mini trenchers, also known as compact trenchers, are small-sized trenching machines used to dig narrow trenches in various soils. They are ideal for utility installation, landscaping, and residential construction projects in confined spaces and tight access areas.

Each type of trencher machine has its application and is suited for specific soil conditions. Selecting the right trencher machine for the project can help ensure efficient and accurate trench excavation.

Specification & Maintenance

Specifications of trencher machines

• Types: Walk-behind trenchers are 8-92 hp for residential projects, ride-on trenchers are 18-185 hp for medium to large projects, chain trenchers are 40-300 hp for large projects, and microtrenchers are for fiber optic cable installation.
• Sizes: Mini trenchers have cutting widths of 4-6 inches and depths of up to 3 feet. Standard trenchers have cutting widths of 6-24 inches and depths of up to 8 feet. Large chain trenchers have cutting widths of 24-60 inches and depths of up to 25 feet.
• Engine: The engine types include gasoline engines for mini trenchers, diesel engines for standard and large chain trenchers, and air-cooled and liquid-cooled engines depending on the power need.
• Transmission: Trenching machines have hydraulic transmission with a torque converter or a manual gearbox. The torque converter offers smooth engagement and disengagement, while the manual gearbox gives more control.
• Crawler and wheel: Crawler are mainly used for large chain trenchers, offering better traction, especially in muddy conditions, whereas wheels are more common in standard trenchers, which move more quickly on flat surfaces.
• Cutting mechanism: Drilling diameter and cutting chain length depend on the number of cutting links. The trencher usually has a circular saw or a chain cutter.
• Hydraulic system: Trench digging machines have a high-flow hydraulic pump that provides high pressure and flow rate for efficient operation.
• Material: Carbon and alloy steels are the two materials for trencher cutting chains. Carbon steel is a cost-effective choice. Alloy steel is more expensive but provides better wear resistance and toughness, especially in chain links.

Maintenance tips for the trencher machine

• Regular inspection: Check the chain for signs of wear and tear. Look for loose or damaged links, blades, and driving belts.
• Lubrication: Lubricate all pivot points, chain drives, idlers, and bearings with high-quality grease to reduce friction and improve performance.
• Change oil and filter: Change the engine oil and filter according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule to keep the engine running smoothly and free from impurities.
• Replace air filter: A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe properly, improving fuel efficiency and performance.
• Wear parts change: Regularly replace worn-out parts like blades, links, or seals to maintain efficiency and performance.
• Fluid levels: Every day before operation, check and top up hydraulic fluid, engine oil, and coolant levels to prevent system failure and engine overheating.
• Fastener tension: Periodically check and ensure all bolts and nuts are tightly fastened to avoid loose components during operation.
• Rust removal: Remove surface rust on frames and parts with a rust removal solution or sandpaper. Then, apply anti-rust paint to extend the life of the trencher.
• Electrical connections: Clean battery terminals and inspect electrical cables for wear to ensure proper power delivery and starting function.

Uses of trencher machines

The uses of trencher machines are plentiful, and the machine is one of the most important pieces of equipment in the excavating industry.

• The main use of a trencher is for digging trenches for laying pipes. When it comes to laying irrigation or drainage piping, especially deep irrigation, this machine is preferred over diggers and excavators as it can be more precise in creating deep trenches.
• Underground utility installations normally like cables, electric lines, telecommunication lines, fiber optic lines etc., use trenching machines as they can create the precise line required without loosely digging excess earth.
• Landscapers use trencher machines to create defined edges for garden beds and create trenches for drainage systems below the ground where water should not be above the surface.
• The military uses trenching machines to create fortification systems and protective lines in defense for enemy attacks. When time is of the essence, and there is a need for digging protective lines quickly, a machine is used instead of manual labor.
• Large construction companies use chain trenchers for mining operations. This is usually in open-pit mining operations where chain trenchers can easily dig large pits and trenches quickly, efficiently, with much better accuracy compared to manual digging. The excavated material is usually discharged onto a conveyor belt that takes it in the needed direction.
• Asphalt cutters are used in street infrastructure repairs. This cutter is mounted on a machine and cuts asphalt so that only the part of the road that requires repair is dug up and not any excess part of the road.
• Dense and hard areas where there is no soil, like rock formation above or below the surface require hard rock trenching machines. These machines have specialized parts like diamond blades and radial wheels that allow them to cut through the hard stuff with precision and accuracy.
• Fiber optic trenching machines are specialized machines that lay out communication lines beneath the earth. With modern technology relying on fiber optics for communication, these machines are in demand and are used to quickly lay out fiber optic cables under the ground without disrupting the surface area.

How to choose trencher machines

Consider the following factors when choosing trencher machines for sale:

• Business needs assessment

  Prospective buyers should evaluate their distinct business needs. They should consider their projects' size, length, and depth. They should also factor in the soil type and any special requirements, such as the need for precise trenching or the ability to work in confined spaces. Once they have evaluated their needs, they should choose a trencher that is well-conditioned and has a capacity that matches their requirements.

• Soil type and condition

  Buyers should consider the kind of soil they will be digging. They should factor in whether it is dirt, sandy, rocky, or frozen ground. Bakery, for instance, will work fine for soft soil conditions but may struggle with compact or rocky terrain. They should settle for models with features suitable for their soil conditions.

• Machine size and power

  Buyers should select trenchers with the right size and HP for their projects. A powerful, massive trencher may be unnecessary and uneconomical for small-scale projects. Conversely, it may be too small to handle larger projects. As stated earlier,;(q2) buyers should also consider the distinct needs of their business when choosing the size and power of the trencher.

• Milling vs. chain trenchers

  Milling machines are suitable for digging narrow and deep trenches, while chain machines are ideal for wide and shallow trenches. Consider the project requirement before choosing one.

• Used vs New trencher machines

  Consider purchasing new trencher machines if budget isn't a constraint. Used machines are more economical. However, factor in the machine's condition, resale value, and maintenance costs.

• Rental options

  If the project is short term, consider renting the trencher machine instead of buying. Rental services offer different trencher types at an affordable rate.

Trencher machine Q & A

Q: Can buyers get custom trencher machines?

A: Some manufacturers are open to getting optional attachments and features for the trencher. Others can also change the trencher's size or grounding color to match a particular brand.

Q: Does the trencher machine dig as it cuts?

A: Unlike saws that cut the ground without moving any part of the earth, the trencher machine digs as it cuts. As the chain moves around the spool, it dislodges the earth and then drops it on the side of the trench.

Q: Can the trencher machine cut through rocks?

A: Ground conditions can affect how well the trencher cuts. Soil conditioners and chains with rock teeth can help the trencher cut through rocks. Larger, more powerful trenchers can dig through rocky ground more easily than smaller ones. Finding an area with blasting rocks is better if the rocks are large and if they are below the ground level.

Q: Can the trencher machine dig trenches of different widths and depths?

A: The trencher machine can cut trenches of different widths and depths. The width and depth will depend on the size of the trencher. Adjust settings accordingly to dig the required depth and width.

Q: What maintenance does the trencher machine require?

A: The trencher requires periodic chain and cutter cleaning. This is to remove any buildup of debris or soil. The Lubrication of the chain is also required to ensure efficient cutting and prolong lifespan. Other maintenance includes regular inspections, air filter changes, cutter replacement, and servicing engine parts like belts, hoses, and filters.