JCB and i3 launch micro-trenching attachment
Jun 21, 2011
JCB has worked with cable laying technology specialists, i3 to develop a micro-trenching attachment for its excavators...
The Auto Trenching Machine (ATM) has been developed by i3 alongside a suite of ‘minimal dig’ technologies, and facilitates the excavation of narrow gauge trenches for the laying of fibre optic cabling. The ATM can significantly reduce project time, cost and disruption.
The ATM is designed around JCB’s tried and tested standard Skid Steer Loader 170HF, providing the flexibility to micro-trench up to 1200m a day, delivering a reduction in deployment time of up to 75 per cent. A JCB product with worldwide JCB service and warranty, it will be supported by JCB’s global dealer network in whichever territory i3 is operating.
The ATM offers a variety of cutting widths to a depth of 250mm and is equipped with a common quick hitch mounting system and mechanised crummer system to extract spoil from the trench.
Multi-function controls enable the adjustment of side shift, tilt and depth functions and the unit has the option of two cutting wheels: a permanent cutting wheel and an interchangeable version where individual teeth can be changed as required.
Paul Hartshorn, Director and General Manager at JCB, says: “As trench excavation costs constantly increase, particularly within urban environments, the new ATM can significantly reduce deployment costs and project timescales and limit disturbance to residents and road networks”.
Dafydd Thomas, Chief Research and Strategy Officer at i3, says: “We were delighted to work alongside JCB to develop a system that will be increasingly in demand as the requirement for fibre-to-the-home deployment grows worldwide”.
“The JCB ATM will form part of a suite of technologies that i3 has developed, including the ability to feed fibre optic cable through existing infrastructures such as sewers and water pipes.”
For further information on the new Auto Trenching Machine, visit http://www.i3-group.co.uk/auto-trenching-machine/ or contact lisa.harding@i3-group.co.uk
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Technology
i3 Group is the world’s leading technology company in fibre cable deployment methodology. i3 Group’s innovative technologies and methodologies allow the cost of building fibre networks to be reduced by up to 70%. Equally important is the reduction in road digging, a high traffic disruptive approach, which our unique system drastically reduces by over 60%. Find out more