Compressed-Air-And-Vacuum Excavation Machine

Compressed- Air-And-Vacuum Excavation Machine

Also called a BoVAC, for saving on utility damage. This compressed-air-and-vacuum excavation machine safely performs trenching operations without using destructive steel teeth. Designed for utility excavation (the first 10 feet down).

It will remove 2 cu yd of dirt per minute and also do production trenching. A modified backhoe plus a trailer-mounted vacuum, filter and compressed-air systems make up the unit. The backhoe bucket has been replaced by a heavy-guage steel head that contains an 8-in.- dia vacuum inlet encircled with six 120-psi air jets.

Spikes over the inlet prevents clogs. A 2.5-in.-dia compressed air hose and an 8-in. vacuum hose link the head to the trailer. An operator works in the cab while a laborer stands over the pit guiding the excavation or using a hand-held accessory wand for delicate work. A quick-connect system also exists that allows up to six pneumatic jack hammers or a bucket to be swapped for the head in less than five minutes.

Since utility hits are a bigger fear to businesses than traffic congestion, the BoVAC worker coordinates with the utility hit prevention task force to avoid any damage to plastic conduit.

Last Photo | Next Photo