Learning About Automated Industrial Equipment

Posted on: 22 December 2021

A microtrencher is often used to install fiber optic cable. The cable is installed adjacent to curbs or the edges of roadways. When utilizing a microtrencher, a vacuum unit will be attached to the machine. The following guidelines will aid with proper machine usage and maintenance needs.

Marked Roadways And The Rerouting Of Traffic

A microtrencher utilizes a sharp blade that cuts down into paved surfaces. The equipment could potentially damage underground utility lines. All microtrenching applications should begin after the fulfillment of permit requirements and the marking of areas where underground utility lines are located. The locations should be marked by a qualified representative of a utility company.

During active microtrenching jobs, traffic may need to be rerouted. Rerouting traffic will prevent the disruption of a microtrenching job. All local laws that pertain to the rerouting of traffic should be followed by you and your crew. This may involve posting signage in clearly marked areas. Microtrenching that will take place in a business district or a residential neighborhood may require that the occupants of commercial buildings or residences are notified of an upcoming project.

The Gear, The Blades, And The Vacuum

The disruption of pavement will result in the formation of silica dust. Although a vacuum unit will likely be used while microtrenching is underway, there is the possibility of some dust remaining on roadways. You and your crew should always wear protective gear, including goggles and face masks. The blade that your equipment utilizes will need to be replaced occasionally. A microtrencher will come with a manual that will outline how often a blade should be inspected.

When the teeth on a blade wear down, a microtrencher will not be able to adequately cut a trench. A worn blade will need to be replaced prior to resuming the operation of the machinery. Replacement blades can be purchased through the manufacturer of the microtrencher that you have purchased.

The vacuum unit is one of the most important pieces of equipment that is used during microtrenching applications. A large vacuum hose should be attached directly to a microtrencher. The vacuum unit will be attached to a tank.

As the microtrencher is moving down the road, silica dust will be collected through the vacuum hose. The tank where silica dust is stored should be emptied on a routine basis. Silica dust should be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. A water hose can be used to remove dust that remains on the road where the microtrenching process was performed. 

If you need microtrenching machine equipment, reach out to an industrial manufacturer.