Finding the right trencher machine for a construction or pipelaying project of any kind is vital to the efficiency and success of a digging project. Chain trenchers are essential pieces of heavy machinery that lays pipes, cables, or to create drainage channels. With so many trenching types available on the market, it’s difficult to decide which one is the best. This guide is to help you decide which chain trencher will be most effective for your project.
At Sunstate Pipelines, we offer a variety of chain trenchers and heavy machinery that are beneficial for all kinds of digging projects. Read this article to learn which one is the best for you. Understanding the different types of trenchers and their capabilities is the first step in finding the right trenching services for your project.
Three of the Best Chain Trenchers on the Market
Tesmec M5 chain trencher
The Tesmec M5 trencher is a beast of a machine that can service any project site no matter how difficult the terrain. With extreme prowess at slicing difficult rock, the Tesmec M5 is unrivalled. Thanks to its robust design, this trencher is the undisputed champion in any hard rock trenching.
Trench Dimensions
Digging Width: 400mm – 1150mm
Digging Depth: 1830mm – 6100mm
Trechnical Specs
Weight: 70t
Horsepower: 440hp (high chain pull, low chain speed)
Drive System: Direct Drive
Features
The key features of the Tesmec M5 are its high tech DGPS Guidance System, it’s Re.M Remote Control, and its TrenTronic 5.0 Electronic Control. These feature allow the machine to be controlled by a person as well as fully remotely operated. It’s ability to be fully automated and its automatic path steering make it excellent at heavy duty jobs.
Vermeer T755 chain trencher
When it comes to trenching equipment, the Vermeer T755 is the paragon of dependability and adaptability. With a priority in operator safety and advanced ergonomics, these machines offer reliable performance no matter what kind of environment they’ree put in.
Trench Dimensions
Digging Width: 400mm – 950mm
Digging Depth: 500mm – 2500mm
Trechnical Specs
Weight: 32t
Horsepower: 215hp (high chain pull, low chain speed)
Drive System: Hydrostatically Driven
Features
The best feature about the Vermeer T755 are by far its direct lay capability, making it an all-in-one trencher that can dig sites while also laying cable or pipe. If you’re in need of a dependable trencher, the Vermeer has you covered.
Trencor 760HD chain trencher
The Trencor 760HD is your best bet for specialised and highly technical trenching work. If you’re needing a digger for unique pathing or very specific manuverability, the Trencor 760HD is the way to go.
Trench Dimensions
Digging Width: 350mm – 800mm
Digging Depth: 500mm – 1800mm
Trechnical Specs
Weight: 32t
Horsepower: 215 hp
Drive System: Direct Drive
Features
The Trencor 760HD features a tow-behind sand hopper, direct lay capability, and laser levelling. All of these features together mean that your digging site will be expertly managed.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Trencher Machine

When you’re looking for trenching services for hire, you should consider some of the following factors to make sure you’re making the right choice:
Project Requirements
Understand the key needs of your project. This includes trench depth and width, soil type, and any obstacles that may be present. This will help you decide the type of trencher best suited for your project.
Trenching Environment
Think about the environment your trencher will be operating in. An urban setting might require a smaller or quieter machine to meet local regulations around noise levels.
Machine Capabilities
Evaluate the capabilities of each trencher, including their power source, dig speed, and maneuverability.
Benefits of Using the Right Trencher
Having the proper trencher machine can be a huge factor in the success of your construction project. Below are some of the benefits of having the proper trencher:
Greater Efficiency
The proper trencher will boost productivity as it will reduce the effort and time required for trenching operations. This efficiency can lead to faster project completion and lower costs.
Increased Safety
By using a trencher that is appropriate for your project needs, the risk of accidents and injury is minimized. Well-equipped trenchers are less likely to break down and are easier to handle.
Enhanced Precision
A suitable trencher ensures accurate trenching, particularly for projects requiring precise measurements such as the laying of cables or pipes.
How to Rent or Purchase a Trencher
Having determined the kind of trencher to utilize in your project, you now have to decide whether or not to rent or purchase it. Here is how you make this choice:
Renting a Trencher
Renting a trencher is best if your project is short-term or if you don’t envision yourself using it that often. Renting allows you access to newer models without committing to long-term ownership, and most rental houses include maintenance and upkeep.
Purchasing a Trencher
If your construction company regularly has trenching work, it is cheaper in the long run to buy a trencher. It will provide more freedom and availability so that jobs can be done as they arise without losing any time.
Operating a Trencher Safely
Operating a trencher takes skill and attention to safety protocol. Some safety operating tips are as follows:
Training and Certification: Train and certify all operators to operate the trencher machine properly.
Pre-Operation Checks: Check the trencher thoroughly before each operation to ensure it is in good condition.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use appropriate PPE, including hard hats, gloves, and eye protection, at all times when operating the machine.
Awareness of Environment: Pay attention to the environment and potential dangers around you, like hidden utilities or uneven terrain.
Hire the Right Trencher with Sunstate Pipelines Today
Selecting the right trencher machine for your construction project is a critical decision that can affect the efficiency, safety, and success of your work. By understanding the different types of trenchers and considering your specific project needs, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your project and your bottom line.
At Sunstate Pipelines, we don’t just supply trenching equipment, but also labour, plant equipment, maintenance applications, over heavy machinery, and so much more. If you’re interested in getting the right chain trenchers for your next digging project, feel free to give us a call so we can help you.