Most trenching equipment do not utilize a blade. The microtrencher is a machine that differs. This type of equipment contains a blade that can cut through thick slabs of asphalt or concrete. Use the following tips to familiarize yourself with the cutting operations and blade exchange requirements associated with your machinery.
A Vertical Blade
A microtrencher is an attachment that can be connected to a tractor, an excavator, or most other ride-on equipment that is used in the construction industry. A vertical blade that is connected to the microtrencher can be manipulated by moving the levers that are used to control the excavation equipment. The blade angle can be adjusted, which will allow an end-user to make cuts in targeted areas.
Most cuts that a blade will be used for will be ones that run straight down through paved surfaces. The jagged edges of the blade can break through pavement. Communication wires are often laid under roadways. This process keeps wires out of view and protected from the elements. When a blade is not being utilized, it can be retracted upward. A blade cover is used on most microtrenching equipment. The cover will protect an end-user from cutting themselves while servicing their equipment.
Extra Blades
A microtrencher will come with a stock blade that was manufactured by the same company manufactured by the microtrencher. The blade may contain print on it that will specify the model number and the size of the blade. A blade manufacturer may feature a listing of blade types and sizes on their website, too. They may also provide order details within the manual that came with a microtrencher.
To extend the life of a blade, the microtrencher should be turned off, and any silica dust from a roadway or other debris should gently be wiped off the surface of the blade. The teeth on a blade will eventually wear down. This will result in a blade taking longer to cut through the pavement. A blade that is in poor shape may cause inconsistencies in the trenching that runs along a road.
If a visual inspection determines that a blade is worn, the blade should be removed and disposed of. Having replacement blades on hand will allow you and your crew to tackle all of the microtrenching projects you are hired for. Extra blades should be kept in a protective sleeve until you are ready to replace a damaged blade.
Keep these tips in mind when looking for a microtrencher blade manufacturing service near you.
