Do you have a project that requires trenching, such as installing a fence, digging drainage channels, or setting up a lawn irrigation system? Instead of manual digging, buying a mini-trencher like MechMaxx’s TCR series is a good option. However, before making a purchase, there are a few things to know about trenching.
What is Trenching
Trenching is often referred to as excavation, which is a broader term, but there is a distinction between excavation and trenching. Excavation typically refers to a larger hole or pit. It involves the process of digging, moving, and clearing soil or other materials from a site. Trenching, on the other hand, typically involves digging long and narrow channels or trenches in the ground. These trenches are commonly used for laying pipes, cables, or other underground utilities. Trenches are usually shallower than excavations.
Types of Trenchers
In trenching machines, we typically recognize two types: ride-on and walk-behind.
Ride-on Trenchers:
A ride-on trencher as the name suggests, it’s more likely you are driving a car when operating the machine. Ride-on trenchers like a skid-steer trencher are larger and require more specialized operational skills. They typically feature a large chain saw attachment at the front allowing them to tackle larger projects and excavate deeper and wider trenches.
Walk-behind Trenchers:
A walk-behind trenching machine is suitable for small-scale operations. If precision is your priority, a smaller walk-behind machine like a mini trencher would be ideal for your needs. A mini trencher can be operated by one person, efficiently completing tasks such as digging irrigation lines, landscaping, or commercial construction projects.
Types of Trenches
We dig out trenches of different shapes based on the specific purposes of the trenches and the conditions of the site, when we are excavating trenches. These following trenches are common used:
Straight Trenches: Straight trenches are excavated in a straight line along the ground and are used for placing underground utilities such as pipes and cables.
Sloped Trenches: Sloped trenches have sloping sides excavated to stabilize the soil and prevent collapse, ensuring the trench's stability.
Bell-Bottom Pier Hole: A bell-bottom pier hole is a deep excavation with a bell-shaped bottom, commonly used for structural support or foundation bearing.
Benched Trenches: Benched trenches are excavated with a series of stepped, bench-like structures on both sides to provide support and increase trench stability.
Considerations Before Trenching
Digging trenches can be a dangerous task, because you will operate a high-powered machine. Therefore, before trenching, it's crucial to:
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Protecting Yourself and Those Around You: Firstly, always wear protective goggles or safety glasses with side shieldswhile using the Trencher to protect your eyes from possible thrown debris. Secondly, avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry, which can catch on moving parts. Wear shoes with non-slip treads when using your Trencher. If you have safety shoes, we recommend wearing them. Do not use the machine while barefoot or wearing open sandals. Thirdly, keep bystanders at least 50 feet (15m) away from your work area at all times.
- Checking Public Utility Lines: Before starting a construction, it's essential to inspect the utility lines in your vicinity. Digging without first checking for existing public utility lines in the area can be very dangerous, leading to incidents such as water leaks, electrocution, explosions, or gas leaks, resulting in significant property damage.
Therefore, it's imperative to inspect nearby public utility lines before construction begins. Legal regulations mandate that excavators must contact local utility workers before undertaking any trenching projects.
Choose MechMaxx Trenchers for Your Work
If you are considering for trenching, wouldn't it be a great idea to have your own mini trencher? We recommend this 14HP 429cc KOHLER E-start TCR1500 is probably your best bet.
If you need to dig larger and deeper trenches, we recommend choosing MechMaxx's skid-steer trencher. We provide trenchers ranging from 28 inches to 48 inches in width, capable of excavating trenches up to 60 inches deep and 6 inches wide.
Visit MechMaxx's official website to explore more.
