Types of Trenchers and Cable Plows

We carry a wide range of trencher machine and cable plow models to help fit your project requirements no matter what they might be. These include walk-behind trenchers for smaller jobs as well as ride-on trenchers best-suited for larger-scale projects. When it comes to cable plows, we carry static as well as vibratory models. The former uses stationary blades to cut through soil while the latter utilize vibration to help it break through tough ground.

The many cable plow options we offer also include those with spools or reels that enable cable to be laid in the trench as it is dug. This has the potential to save a significant amount of time and labor when installing utilities.

How Trenchers and Cable Plows Work

Although both trenchers and cable plows perform more or less the same task, they go about it in different fashions. Trenchers use rotating chains with teeth to cut through soil and other materials. The various types of teeth include where are known as alligator teeth for breaking up soils, cup teeth for loose earth and shark teeth specifically designed to cut through tougher materials.

On the other hand, cable plows use a single cutting blade to dig slits into the earth while disturbing the surface as little as possible. Some of these machines also feature a feed attachment to help install cable or pipe as the machine moves across the work site.

Key Features to Consider

Choosing the right equipment for the job means knowing as much about your project and the site conditions as possible. You'll need to think about the required digging depth, the power output you need and whether any specialized attachments would help. For example, you might want to add backfill blades to fill the trench as the machine moves. Another crucial consideration is the tire type and size of the machine, as this will affect its maneuverability on the jobsite and performance on different types of terrain.

In general, pipeline trenchers are the best choice for jobs that require deeper trenches in more-challenging conditions. For example, if the soil is especially rocky or if there are tree roots in the way. Cable plows make more sense for projects where the trenches need to be shallower and the soil is more uniform.

Why Choose Equip Seller for Your Trencher or Cable Plow?

We're the best place to find these trencher machines throughout the Philadelphia tri-state area, with an extensive selection of new and used equipment. When you shop with us, you'll find high-quality machinery from trusted manufacturers including Vermeer and Ditch Witch. We also strive to make the experience as easy for you as possible, with a number of financing and shipping options to help you add the capabilities you need to your fleet. You can count on us to provide after-sales support in the form of maintenance and repair services, as well.

To get started on finding the right equipment for your needs, get out our inventory online or reach out to speak with a member of our team today.