tackling trouble areas Can You By: Mike Hale Dig It? I Installing a fence. Planting shrubs. Putting in a new street sign. Different public works projects with one common link — each requires the proper hole to be dug in order to complete the task properly. But how tough is it to dig a suitable hole? While the process is far from rocket sci-ence, it’s not quite as simple as one would expect either. All hole digging projects may appear to be the same on the surface, but it’s often what’s below the surface that really mat-ters. Additionally, the available equipment and accessory options — while great for en-hancing productivity — can make things a bit more complicated for public works pro-fessionals. Selecting the proper earth drill and accessories for any hole digging project. Style Is An Option Engine-powered, one-man earth drills are typically available in two common styles: hydraulic and mechanical. While often similar in appearance in their most basic configurations, these two styles operate differently and are built with distinct features and options to make them better-suited for certain projects. Built rugged and powerful, hydraulic drills are designed for the most challenging digging projects, including those in more complex soil conditions and even frozen ground. These hydraulically-powered units offer very controlled, precise operation at a lower speed and higher torque, allowing them to drill accurately in even the most difficult ap-plications. Additionally, hydraulic models are ideally suited for rougher terrain and rocky condi-Job site conditions, particularly soil, play an important role in proper unit selection, and location may present additional challenges. tions, as they incorporate a reverse auger operation function. Should the auger become lodged under an object, such as a rock or tree root, it can be removed safely and easily by running the auger in reverse. Generally accepting of larger-diameter augers, these units are ideal for single-hole 40 CM/Cleaning & Maintenance Management ® • July 2013 Images courtesy of Little Beaver
CMM – Archives July 2013: 40
