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Excavator Trencher

Excavator Trencher

A hydraulic chain trencher that mounts on the excavator boom and uses a rotating cutting chain to dig narrow, consistent-depth trenches for utility, cable, and irrigation work. Four sizes fit 2.5 to 12 ton excavators with trench depths from 300 to 1500 mm.
Product Name: Hydraulic Chain Trencher / Excavator Mounted Trencher / Ditch Digging Attachment / Excavator Trench Digger
Type: Trenchers
After-sales Service: Provided
Warranty: 1 Year
Customization: Available
Shipping Cost: Negotiate with us about shipping cost and estimated delivery time.
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Overview
FAQ

Product Overview

The TGEC excavator chain trencher is a hydraulic attachment built to dig narrow, uniform-width trenches in a single pass. It replaces the bucket on the excavator boom and uses a hydraulically driven chain with carbide-tipped teeth that rotates around a boom to cut through soil, clay, and mixed ground. A depth foot rides on the ground surface to control trench depth automatically, keeping the trench consistent without constant operator adjustment. This attachment is part of the TGEC excavator trencher lineup and is designed for utility contractors, irrigation installers, cable crews, and general construction teams.

Four sizes cover excavators from 2.5 to 12 tons. The TG-T600 is built for compact mini excavators doing residential utility work, while the TG-T1500 handles mid-size machines for commercial cable and pipe jobs. Each model offers adjustable cutting widths and multiple depth presets. Compared to a standard bucket, the chain trencher leaves clean sidewalls, a flat bottom, and minimal over-excavation—which means less backfill and better bedding for pipe and cable.

Models and Specifications

Four models cover excavators from 2.5 to 12 tons. Depth presets and cutting widths vary by model.

ParameterTG-T600TG-T900TG-T1200TG-T1500
Compatible Excavator Class2.5–5 t (2.75–5.5 ton)3–7 t (3.3–7.7 ton)5–10 t (5.5–11 ton)8–12 t (8.8–13.2 ton)
Trench Depth Presets300 / 450 / 600 mm (11.8 / 17.7 / 23.6 in)600 / 750 / 900 mm (23.6 / 29.5 / 35.4 in)800 / 1000 / 1200 mm (31.5 / 39.4 / 47.2 in)1000 / 1250 / 1500 mm (39.4 / 49.2 / 59.1 in)
Cutting Width150 / 200 / 250 / 300 mm (5.9 / 7.9 / 9.8 / 11.8 in)150 / 200 / 250 / 300 mm (5.9 / 7.9 / 9.8 / 11.8 in)150 / 200 mm (5.9 / 7.9 in)150 mm (5.9 in)
Working Oil Pressure150–210 bar (2175–3045 psi)150–210 bar (2175–3045 psi)170–250 bar (2465–3625 psi)170–250 bar (2465–3625 psi)
Required Oil Flow45–95 L/min (12–25 GPM)45–95 L/min (12–25 GPM)60–120 L/min (16–32 GPM)100–150 L/min (26–40 GPM)
Unit Weight220 kg (485 lb)330 kg (728 lb)460 kg (1014 lb)490 kg (1080 lb)

Table data is for reference only. Actual specifications may vary based on the final configuration. Please contact the TianGe technical team for details.

How It Works

The trencher runs off the excavator's auxiliary hydraulic circuit, which powers a motor that drives the cutting chain. The chain loops around a boom with a sprocket at the top and an idler at the bottom, carrying teeth that cut as they move down the front of the boom. Spoils are carried up the chain and dumped to the side of the trench. A depth foot at the rear of the boom rides on the ground and limits how deep the trencher can go. Once set, the depth foot helps maintain a consistent trench depth. The operator lowers the boom into the ground and drives forward slowly, letting the chain cut a continuous trench at the preset depth.

Application Scenarios

  • Utility installation: Dig narrow trenches for electrical cable, fiber optic lines, gas pipes, and water mains in residential, commercial, and municipal projects.

  • Irrigation and drainage: Install irrigation lines, agricultural drainage tile, and landscape drainage systems with consistent trench depth.

  • Landscaping and residential work: Run sprinkler lines, low-voltage lighting cable, and underground utilities on properties with limited access.

  • Road and highway work: Cut trenches for road edge drains, culvert connections, and utility crossings along paved surfaces.

  • Farm and agricultural installation: Lay irrigation pipe, drainage tile, and underground wiring across fields and farmsteads.

Installation and Mounting

The trencher mounts to the excavator boom in place of the standard bucket, using the same boom pin and bucket linkage. The mounting bracket must match your excavator's pin spacing, pin diameter, and linkage geometry. Hydraulic lines connect the trencher motor to the excavator's auxiliary circuit—some configurations also require a case drain line. When you order, provide the excavator make, model, and pin dimensions so we can supply the right bracket. The trencher can also be set up for mechanical or hydraulic quick couplers.

Wear and Service

The cutting teeth are the main wear items—they take the brunt of the work and should be checked regularly for dullness or damage. Worn teeth cut slower and put extra strain on the drive motor and chain. Replacement teeth are available and can be swapped in the field. The chain itself needs proper tension and periodic lubrication per the service schedule. Check the drive motor, sprocket, and idler bearings for leaks or play. Inspect hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks, especially at the connection points where movement happens. Keep the chain clean and properly tensioned, and you'll get a lot more life out of every component.

Request a Quote — Excavator Chain Trencher

Tell us your excavator make and model, operating weight, auxiliary hydraulic flow and pressure, preferred model (TG-T600 through TG-T1500), required trench depth and width, mounting or coupler type, primary application, and quantity. Our team will confirm the right model and bracket, verify hydraulic compatibility, and send you a quote with lead times and delivery terms. Dealers and OEMs are welcome for volume orders, custom configurations, and private-label options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an excavator chain trencher used for?+

An excavator chain trencher is used to dig narrow, consistent-depth trenches for utility installation, including electrical cable, fiber optic lines, gas pipes, water mains and irrigation systems. It is also used for drainage tile installation, landscape drainage, road edge drains and site utility work during construction. The rotating chain with cutting teeth excavates clean, uniform-width trenches in a single pass, minimizing over-excavation and backfill volume compared to bucket digging.

What excavator size is required for an excavator chain trencher?+

TGEC chain trenchers cover excavators from 2.5 to 12 tons across four model sizes. The TG-T600 fits 2.5 to 5 ton mini excavators, the TG-T900 covers 3 to 7 ton machines, the TG-T1200 fits 5 to 10 ton excavators, and the TG-T1500 covers 8 to 12 ton carriers. Always verify that the excavator auxiliary hydraulic flow and pressure match the model requirements, and confirm the trencher weight falls within the carrier lift capacity at working reach. Final compatibility depends on excavator operating weight, hydraulic output and mounting configuration.

Can an excavator chain trencher be used on a mini excavator?+

Yes. The TG-T600 is designed specifically for mini excavators from 2.5 to 5 tons, weighing 220 kg (485 lb) with trench depths up to 600 mm (23.6 in). The TG-T900 also covers small excavators from 3 to 7 tons. Mini excavator operators should verify that the machine has sufficient auxiliary hydraulic flow (45 to 95 L/min for the TG-T600 and TG-T900) and pressure, and that the trencher weight does not exceed the carrier lift capacity at typical working reach. For more guidance, see our mini excavator trencher selection guide.

What hydraulic requirements should be checked before ordering?+

Each model has specific flow and pressure ranges. The TG-T600 and TG-T900 require 45 to 95 L/min (12 to 25 GPM) at 150 to 210 bar (2175 to 3045 psi). The TG-T1200 requires 60 to 120 L/min (16 to 32 GPM) at 170 to 250 bar (2465 to 3625 psi). The TG-T1500 requires 100 to 150 L/min (26 to 40 GPM) at 170 to 250 bar. The excavator must have an auxiliary hydraulic circuit with a proportional or on-off valve to control the chain motor speed. A case drain line may be required depending on the motor configuration. Set the auxiliary relief valve according to the trencher's specified working pressure.

How do I determine the required trench width and depth?+

Trench width is determined by the outer diameter of the pipe or cable being installed, plus required bedding and backfill clearance. Most utility and irrigation applications require 150 to 200 mm (5.9 to 7.9 in) wide trenches, while larger pipe or multiple conduit runs may need 250 to 300 mm (9.8 to 11.8 in). Trench depth is determined by the required burial depth of the utility line, which varies by jurisdiction and utility type. The TG-T600 offers depth presets up to 600 mm, the TG-T900 up to 900 mm, the TG-T1200 up to 1200 mm, and the TG-T1500 up to 1500 mm. Select a model that covers your maximum required depth.

What type of ground can an excavator chain trencher handle?+

The chain trencher is designed for soil, clay, loam, topsoil and mixed ground conditions commonly encountered in utility and irrigation installation. The carbide-tipped cutting teeth handle moderate compacted soil and small gravel. The trencher is not designed for solid rock, concrete, asphalt or heavily compacted frozen ground. If the job site contains rock or hardpan, pre-ripping or an alternative excavation method may be required. In abrasive sandy or gravelly soil, chain teeth will wear faster and should be inspected more frequently. Always assess ground conditions before starting the job and select the appropriate trencher model and tooth configuration.

Can the excavator chain trencher be customized for different excavators?+

Yes. Customization includes mounting brackets for specific excavator models, hydraulic hose lengths and fittings to match the carrier auxiliary circuit, and quick-coupler compatibility for both mechanical and hydraulic couplers. When ordering, provide the excavator make and model, operating weight, pin-to-pin spacing, pin diameter and stick width, and our engineering team will supply the correct bracket. OEM customers can also specify custom paint colors, branding and packaging. All custom configurations undergo the same quality control as standard products.

Can you supply an excavator trencher for Bobcat equipment?+

TGEC can supply chain trenchers for Bobcat excavators, provided the machine operating weight and auxiliary hydraulic specifications fall within the model requirements. Bobcat mini excavators in the 2.5 to 5 ton range typically pair with the TG-T600, while 3 to 7 ton models fit the TG-T900. Compatibility depends on the specific Bobcat model, its auxiliary hydraulic flow and pressure, and the mounting pin dimensions. Contact TianGe with your Bobcat model number, operating weight and hydraulic specifications for a compatibility review and custom mounting bracket.

What information should I provide when requesting a quote?+

To request a quote, provide the excavator make and model, operating weight, auxiliary hydraulic flow and pressure, preferred model (TG-T600 through TG-T1500), required trench depth and width, mounting or coupler type, primary application, and the quantity required. If you are unsure which model fits your excavator, include the job site typical trench dimensions and soil conditions, and our technical team can recommend the optimal configuration. Dealers and OEM customers should include company details, target market and estimated volume for a customized supply proposal.

Can TianGe provide OEM excavator trencher solutions?+

Yes. TianGe offers OEM and private-label production for excavator chain trenchers, with custom paint colors, logo placement, packaging and documentation. Flexible minimum order quantities and competitive volume pricing are available for equipment dealers, utility supply distributors and rental companies. All OEM units meet the same quality standards as TGEC-branded products, with private-label replacement parts available for after-sales support. Custom mounting brackets can be configured for the excavator brands common in your target market. Contact the sales team with your company details, target market and estimated volume for a customized OEM proposal.

How do I choose an excavator trencher for utility work?+

For utility work, start by determining the typical trench depth and width required for the cable or pipe you install. Most residential utility work needs 600 to 900 mm depth and 150 to 200 mm width, fitting the TG-T600 or TG-T900. Commercial and municipal utility projects may require 1200 to 1500 mm depth, fitting the TG-T1200 or TG-T1500. Match the model to your excavator size and hydraulic output. Consider the soil conditions on your typical job sites, as harder ground may benefit from a larger model with more hydraulic power. For more guidance, see our excavator trencher selection guide and applications guide.

How can I get a quote for an excavator chain trencher?+

Send your excavator model, hydraulic specifications, required trench dimensions, application requirements and destination to TianGe for configuration review and quotation. Include the excavator make and model, operating weight, auxiliary hydraulic flow and pressure, preferred model, trench depth and width, mounting type, and quantity. Our team will confirm the correct model and mounting bracket, verify hydraulic compatibility and provide a detailed quote with lead times and delivery terms. Contact us through the website inquiry form or email the sales team directly.
Please make sure to include your phone number with the country code (e.g., 86 for China, 1 for USA).