AirSpade ASU4150G4, ASU4150KT, HT140, HT114, LT3000 User Manual

airspade.com

Innovation

in the air.

Pneumatic

Soil Excavation

Table of Contents

AirSpade 2000 Series

AirSpade 3000 Series

AirSpade 4000 Series

AirVac Series

Accessories

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Parts

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FAQs

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Always wear eye and ear protection when operating
air tools and related equipment.

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3

8

10

13

15

19

26

[2]

2000 Series

Today, thousands of AirSpades are used in arboriculture, utility,

construction, and industrial applications worldwide. AirSpade is the tool

of choice due to its fast, easy and non-destructive method of excavation.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

Arboriculture &

Horticulture

De-mining

[3]

Utility & Construction

Environmental

Remediation

Trench Rescue

AirSpade 2000

Utilizing the power of compressed air, AirSpade 2000 uncovers underground

objects, utility lines, or even sensitive tree roots without harm. Featuring the high

performance, patented supersonic nozzle, AirSpade 2000 digs faster and more

efficiently than competitive tools. Rugged, lightweight construction. Dead-man

trigger ensures safe operation. Non-conductive, fiberglass barrel provides degree

of protection from buried electrical lines.

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

HT140

AirSpade 2000 25 cfm with 4 ft barrel

Minimum

25

Features

• Ergonomic, pistol-grip style handle with soft rubber grip

• Comfortable, dead-man trigger

• Air pressure gauge

• Lightweight, fiberglass barrel with adjustable dirt shield

• Extra-hardened, stainless steel supersonic nozzle

• Inlet: 3/4” NPT (Male)

• Chicago-style connector

[4]

HT144

HT134

HT139

HT116

HT130

HT138

See website for full specifications

AirSpade 2000 60 cfm with 2 ft barrel

AirSpade 2000 60 cfm with 4 ft barrel

AirSpade 2000 105 cfm with 4 ft barrel

AirSpade 2000 150 cfm with 3 ft barrel

AirSpade 2000 150 cfm with 4 ft barrel

AirSpade 2000 225 cfm with 4 ft barrel

airspade.com

60

60

125

175

175

250

Arbor/Landscape Kit

Kit includes the most popular components and accessories utilized by arborists and

landscapers. Features the powerful AirSpade 2000 air-excavation tool equipped

with patented supersonic nozzle for superior digging performance. Ideal for

sensitive arboreal work including vertical mulching, bare rooting, radial trenching,

and soil aeration. Rugged, lightweight construction. Dead-man trigger ensures safe

operation. Non-conductive, fiberglass barrel provides degree of protection from

buried electrical lines.

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

HT142

HT107

Arbor/Landscape Kit with 105 cfm nozzle

Arbor/Landscape Kit with 150 cfm nozzle

Minimum

125

175

HT109

See website for full specifications

Arbor/Landscape Kit with 225 cfm nozzle

250

Features

• AirSpade 2000 handle with Chicago style connector

• 4 ft barrel with adjustable dirt shield

• 45° angled adaptor

• 105, 150, 225 cfm supersonic nozzle

• 1”ID x 10’ lightweight air hose with Chicago style connectors

• Heavy-duty locking storage case

[5]

Features

• Features high performance, supersonic 60 cfm nozzle

• Lightweight, fiberglass barrel with adjustable dirt shield

• Ergonomic, pistol-grip style handle with soft, rubber grip

• Comfortable, dead-man trigger ensures safe operation

• Short barrel simplifies close-in work

• Inlet: 3/4” NPT (Male)

• Chicago-style connector

Shrub Gun

The HT144 Shrub Gun is changing the way arborists, landscapers and gardeners

care for trees, shrubs and flower beds. Operating on a compressor that’s compact

enough to fit on the back of a pick-up truck, the two-foot barrel allows for

controlled excavation and soil aeration.

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

HT144

See website for full specifications

AirSpade 2000 60 cfm with 2 ft barrel

Minimum

60

[6]

airspade.com

Construction Kit

Trench Rescue Kit

Trench Rescue Kit/Construction Kit

Kit includes the most popular components and accessories utilized by utility and

construction crews. Features the powerful AirSpade 2000 air-excavation tool

equipped with patented supersonic nozzle for superior digging performance.

Ideal for sensitive excavation work including utility locating and repair, key-holing,

potholing, roadwork and trench rescue. Rugged, lightweight construction.

Dead-man trigger ensures safe operation. Non-conductive, fiberglass barrel

provides degree of protection from buried electrical lines.

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

HT114

Construction Kit with 105 cfm nozzle

Minimum

125

HT106

HT102

HT108

See website for full specifications

Construction Kit with 150 cfm nozzle

Construction Kit with 225 cfm nozzle

Trench Rescue Kit includes 60 and 150 cfm nozzle

175

250

60/175

Features

• AirSpade 2000 handle with Chicago style connectors

• 4’ barrel with dirt shield

• 3’ extension and coupler (Construction Kit only)

• 45° angled adapter

• 60, 105, 150 or 225 cfm supersonic nozzle

• 1” ID x 10’ lightweight air hose with Chicago style connectors

• Heavy duty locking storage case

[7]

3000 Series

AirSpade 3000 is the strongest, compressed air-powered, excavation

tool available on the market today. Delivering 330 cfm at 90 psi, the

AirSpade 3000 provides unprecedented performance in heavy-duty arbo-

riculture, utility, and construction applications.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

[8]

Arboriculture &

Horticulture

Tree Relocation

Utility & Construction

Heavy-duty

Excavation

Features

• In-line style handle with soft rubber grip

• Dead-man trigger

• Non-conductive 5ft fiberglass barrel

• Adjustable dirt shield

• Extra-hardened, stainless steel 330 cfm supersonic nozzle

• Inlet: 1 1/4” NPT (Male)

• 1” Air-King 4-Lug Connector

AirSpade 3000

AirSpade 3000 is the most powerful air excavation tool available on the market

today. Featuring the patented supersonic nozzle, the rugged, heavy-duty AirSpade

3000 is the tool of choice to move maximum dirt in the minimum amount of time.

Dead man trigger ensures safe operation. Non-conductive, fiberglass extension

provides degree of protection from buried electrical lines.

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

LT3000

See website for full specifications

AirSpade 3000 330 cfm with 5ft barrel

Minimum

375

[9]

4000 Series

OUTER FIBERGLASS TUBE rated to 100kV per ft. for 5 minutes per ASTM F711

Working around underground gas and electric lines demands the safest

equipment. Constructed from high-pressure, insulated inner air hose

surrounded by non-conductive, fiberglass outer barrel, a Utility AirSpade

with a 4’ barrel is rated up to 300kV.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

[10]

Electric Power Lines

Telecommunication Lines

& Fiber Optics

Gas Pipes

INNER AIR HOSE rated to 75kV per ft. for 5 minutes per SAE 100R7

Water & Sewer Lines

Utility AirSpade 4000

Setting a new standard for air excavation tools, the Utility AirSpade 4000 Series

harnesses the power of compressed air to safely uncover underground utility lines

without harm. AirSpade’s high-performance, patented supersonic nozzle generates

a laser-like jet that moves at twice the speed of sound for faster, more effective

digging. With non-sparking nickle aluminum bronze nozzle and components,

electrically insulated 4 ft barrel rated to 300kV, and a lightweight, ergonomic

handle, the Utility AirSpade 4000 maximizes jobsite safety while minimizing operator

fatigue. Aluminum handle features full size grip opening to accommodate linesman’s

gloves. Dead-man trigger ensures safe operation and trigger guard prevents

accidental activation. Retractable stabilizer bar provides superior operator control.

Integral pressure gauge ensures optimal digging performance.

Minimum

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

ASU4105G4

Utility AirSpade 4000 105 cfm with 4 ft Barrel

125

ASU4150G4

See website for full specifications

Utility AirSpade 4000 150 cfm with 4 ft Barrel

175

Features

• Integral air-pressure gauge

• Insulated, 4’ fiberglass barrel rated up to 300kV

• Non-sparking brass barrel sleeves and threaded connectors

• Non-sparking, nickle aluminum bronze supersonic nozzle; 105 & 150 cfm available

• Inlet: ¾” FNPT

• Chicago-style swivel connector

[11]

Utility AirSpade 4000 Kit

Kit includes the most popular components and accessories utilized by utility work-

ers. Features the powerful Utility AirSpade 4000 air-excavation tool equipped with

patented, nickle aluminum bronze non-sparking supersonic nozzle for superior digging

performance. Rugged, lightweight ergonomic handle with retractable stabilizer bar

features dead-man trigger for comfortable, safe operation. Insulated, 4’ fiber-

glass barrel, rated up to 300kV, provides protection from buried electrical lines.

Heavy-duty locking storage case.

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

ASU4105KT

Utility AirSpade 4000 Kit with 105 cfm nozzle

Minimum

125

ASU4150KT

See website for full specifications

Features

• Utility AirSpade handle assembly with Chicago-style, swivel connector

• 4’ insulated barrel with dirt shield

• 3’ insulated extension and non-sparking brass coupler

• 45 degree non-sparking brass angled adapter

• 105 or 150 cfm non-sparking nickle aluminum bronze nozzle

• 1” ID x 10’ lightweight air hose with Chicago-style connectors

• Heavy-duty, locking storage case

[12]

airspade.com

Utility AirSpade 4000 Kit with 150 cfm nozzle

175

AirVac Series

Powered by compressed air, AirVac utilizes the Venturi Principle to

create a powerful vacuum inside the tank which in turn induces a high

transport velocity within the vacuum hose. The high transport velocity

carries soil and/or debris from the ground up into the tank quickly and

effectively.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

• Utility potholing

• Manhole and valve clean-out

• Utility pole soil excavation

• Meter box cleaning

• Uncovering splice locations

• Surface drain inlet clean-out

• Contaminated soil removal

• Demolition debris cleanup

• Sludge and mud removal

[13]

AirVac

Powered by compressed air, AirVac effectively sucks up soils including dirt, sand,

gravel, small rocks, and muck. High thru-put venturi vacuums up to 2 cubic ft/min

of material with no motors or moving parts to wear out. With tank capacity of 11.5

cubic ft (86 gallons), AirVac is the portable alternative to large, expensive vacuum

trucks. Dual handles and heavy-duty 13” tires provide superior maneuverability.

Includes 15 ft vacuum hose and 5 ft vacuum wand.

Part No. Model/Description Compressor Size

AVU15025

AirVac 150 cfm 2.5" Vacuum Unit

Minimum

175

Features

• Durable, heavy-gauge, all steel construction

• 10” x 20” dump door

• Vacuum and air line pressure gauges

• Vacuum relief safety valve

• Removable injector/exhaust silencer

• Washable polyester filter; 99.99% efficient @ 1.0 micron

• 4”OD vacuum inlet

• 1”ID air hose inlet; Chicago style connector

[14]

AVU22530

AVU33040

See website for full specifications

AirVac 225 cfm 3.0" Vacuum Unit

AirVac 330 cfm 4.0" Vacuum Unit

airspade.com

250

375

Accessories

We offer a full-line of accessories that will extend the functionality of your

selected AirSpade products.

• Extensions • Hoses • Cases • Angled Adapters

[15]

2000 Series Extensions

Accessories

Heavy-duty extensions for AirSpade 2000 air-exca­vation tools. Provides extended reach capability for
hard-to-reach locations. Includes coupler. Compatible
with AirSpade 2000 components and accessories.

Part # Size

HT122 2ft
HT121 3ft
HT154 4ft
HT120 5ft

3000 Series Extensions

Heavy-duty, 3’ fiberglass extension for AirSpade 3000
air-excavation tool. Non-conductive design provides
degree of protection from buried electrical lines.
Compatible with AirSpade 3000 components and
accessories.

Part # Size

LT17 5ft

4000 Series
Insulated Extensions

Constructed from high-pressure rated, insulated inner
air hose surrounded by non-conductive, rigid fiberglass
outer tube. Inner air hose rated to 75kV per ft for 5
minutes per SAE 100R7. Outer fiberglass tube rated to
100kV per ft for 5 minutes per ASTM F711.

Part # Size

ASU4002EX 2ft
ASU4003EX 3ft
ASU4004EX 4ft
ASU4005EX 5ft

[16]

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[17]

Storage Case

Rugged, watertight, locking storage case. Designed
to hold the AirSpade 2000 or 4000 and compo­nents. HT132

Face Shield

Impact resistant face shield with headgear provides
full-face protection when working with air-excavation
tools. Meets ANSI Z87+ standards when worn with
safety glasses or goggles. Adjusts for comfortable fit.
on head sizes 6 ½ to 8. HT136

Auxiliary Handle

Provides convenient two-handed operation for Air­Spade 2000 and 4000 and extensions. Swivels and
clamps in any desired position. HT180

2000 Series 45 Degree
Angled Adapter

Redirects the AirSpade supersonic nozzle air-jet
by 45 degrees. Especially useful in tight locations
such as deep excavations or potholes. Swivels with
360 degrees of freedom and locks into desired
position. Compatible with all AirSpade 2000
components and accessories. HT119

4000 Series 45 Degree
Angled Adapter

Redirects the AirSpade supersonic nozzle air-jet by
45 degrees. Especially useful in tight locations such
as deep excavations or potholes. Swivels with 360
degrees of freedom and locks into desired position.
Compatible with all AirSpade 4000 components and
accessories. ASU4045AA

[17]

Lightweight Air Hose

Accessories

Superior alternative to standard-weight air hose.
Ultra lightweight design reduces worker fatigue.
Stores flat. High-visibility safety yellow. Pre-mounted

Replacement Parts

connectors. Ideal for both AirSpade 2000 and 4000.
1” ID

Part # Size

HT57 1” ID x 10’
HT111 1” ID x 25’
HT112 1” ID x 50’

[18]

[18]

Standard Air Hose

Tough, heavy-duty rubber, abrasion and ozone
resistant, general service air hose. Type “A”
construction. Red. Pre-mounted connectors. 1” ID

Part # Size

HT113 1” ID x 50’

airspade.com

Safety Cable

Provides positive attachment of air hose to AirSpade
in case of inadvertent disconnect. Spring loaded loop
makes for easy installation. 500A04

Parts

We offer a full-line of replacement parts that will keep the AirSpade products

you have selected in tip-top shape.

• Nozzles • Handles • Barrels • Repair Kits

[19]

2000 Series
Supersonic Nozzles

Patented design turns compressed air into high
speed, laser like jet moving at Mach 2. Mounts on

Replacement Parts

standard AirSpade 2000 barrel. Compressed air
requirements: 25 - 225 cfm @ 90 psi.

Part # Nozzle

HT126 25 cfm
HT125 60 cfm
HT156 105 cfm
HT123 150 cfm
HT127 225 cfm

2000 Series Barrels

Heavy-duty fiberglass barrels for AirSpade
2000 air-excavation tools. Adjustable dirt shield
protects operator from flying debris. Non-conductive
design provides degree of protection from buried
electrical lines.

Part # Size

HT148 2ft

HT131 3ft

HT118 4ft

Adjustable Dirt Shield

Adjustable dirt shield protects operator from flying
debris. Sliding collet locks dirt shield into desired
position. Fits AirSpade 2000 and 4000 barrels and
extensions. HT133

2000 Series Coupler

Provides secure connection between AirSpade 2000
barrels and extensions. HT155

[20]

[20]

airspade.com

[21]

2000 Series
Handle Assembly

Handle assembly for AirSpade 2000. Comfortable,
ergonomic design provides superior grip. Rugged,
lightweight aluminum/steel construction. Dead-man
trigger ensures safe operation. HT117

2000 Series
Handle Repair Kit

Provides all of the parts necessary to maintain and/
or repair the AirSpade 2000 handle.

HT150 For AirSpades purchased before March 2011.
HT150-1 For AirSpades purchased after March 2011.

AirSpade 2000 Valve
Seal 3 Pack

Provides replacement valve seals for AirSpade 2000
and 4000 series handles. HT66

2000 Series Air Fitting

Chicago “Air King” style coupler provides a quick and
safe method to connect air hose to air tools. Claws
insure positive connection. Safety clips (not included)
provide added measure of safety. 3/4” NPT inlet.

HT220

[21]

3000 Series
Supersonic Nozzle

Patented design turns compressed air into high
speed, laser like jet moving at Mach 2. Mounts on

Replacement Parts

standard AirSpade 3000 barrel. Compressed air
requirements: 330 cfm @ 90 psi. LT24

3000 Series Air Fitting

Chicago “Air King” style coupler provides a quick and
safe method to connect air hose to air tools. Claws
insure positive connection. Safety clips (not included)
provide added measure of safety. 1-1/4” NPT inlet.

LT23

3000 Series Barrels

Heavy-duty, 5’ fiberglass barrel for AirSpade 3000
air-excavation tool. Adjustable dirt shield protects
operator from flying debris. Non-conductive design
provides degree of protection from buried electrical
lines. LT25

3000 Series
Handle Assembly

Handle assembly for AirSpade 3000. Inline handle
provides superior grip. Rugged, aluminum/steel
construction. Dead-man trigger ensures safe
operation. LT03

[22]

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airspade.com

[23]

4000 Series
Supersonic Nozzle

Supersonic nozzles deliver superior performance.
Patented design turns compressed air into high
speed, laser-like jet moving at Mach 2. Non-sparking
nickle aluminum bronze construction. Compressed air
requirements: 105/150 cfm @ 90 psi.

ASU4105NZ, ASU4150NZ

4000 Series Barrels

Heavy-duty 4’ barrel with adjustable dirt shield.
High-pressure rated, insulated inner air hose
surrounded by non-conductive, fiberglass outer tube.
Inner air hose rated to 75kV per ft. for 5 minutes per
SAE 100R7. Outer fiberglass tube rated to 100kV per
ft. for 5 minutes per ASTM F711. Non-sparking, brass
hardware. ASU4004BD

4000 Series
Handle Assembly

Rugged, lightweight aluminum body and ergonomic grip
minimizes fatigue. Full size grip opening accommodates
linesman’s gloves. Dead-man trigger ensures safe
operation. Trigger guard prevents accidental activation.
Retractable stabilizer bar provides superior operator
control. ASU4000HA

4000 Series
Handle Repair Kit

Provides all of the parts necessary to maintain
and/or repair the Utility AirSpade 4000 handle.

ASU4000HR

4000 Series Coupler

Non-sparking brass coupler provides secure
connection between AirSpade 4000 barrels and
extensions. Compatible with all AirSpade 4000
components and accessories. ASU4000CP

4000 Series Air Fitting

Chicago “Air King” style swivel coupler provides a
quick and safe method to connect air hose to air
tools. Free-turning joint swivels 360º to prevent
hose kinking. Claws insure positive connection. Safety
clips (not included) provide added measure of safety.
3/4” NPT inlet. 34SAKM05

[23]

AirVac Vacuum Hose

Rugged, flexible vacuum hose provides the ideal
combination of light weight, flexibility, and durability.
Transparent construction allows for visual confir-

Replacement Parts

Replacement Parts

mation of material flow. Secure with standard hose
clamps (not included).

Part # Size

AVH2515 2.5” ID x 15’

AVH3015 3” ID x 15’

AVH4015 4” ID x 15’

AirVac Vacuum
Hose Couplers

Attach 2.5”ID or 3”ID vacuum hose to the AirVac
4”OD vacuum inlet via these heavy-duty, vacuum
hose couplers. Secure vacuum hose to coupler with
standard hose clamps (not included).

Part # Size

AVC2540 2.5” to 4” ID

AVC3040 3” to 4” ID

AirVac Vacuum Wands

Rigid, clear plastic, 5’ vacuum wand. Length can
be trimmed for custom applications. Attaches
to vacuum hose via standard hose clamps (not
included).

Part # Size

AVW2505 2.5” ID x 5’

AVW3005 3” ID x 5’

AVW4005 4” ID x 5’

[24]

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airspade.com

[25]

AirVac Hose Clamp

Steel hose clamp. For making secure connections
between vacuum hose and attachments.

AirVac Replacement Filter

Replacement filter for all AirVac models. Easy-to-install.
Filter mounts under top lid. AVF7000

Part # Model

AVHC25 For 2.5” Hose

AVHC30 For 3” Hose

AVHC40 For 4” Hose

[25]

FAQs

GENERAL

How can I purchase AirSpade products?

AirSpade products can be purchased direct or through our distributors. Contact
our Customer Service Department, via email at [e-mail], or via fax
at [phone]. A list of AirSpade distributors can be found on the Where
To Buy section of the AirSpade website airspade.com. You can also buy direct at
airspade.com.

How do I obtain current product pricing and
availability?

Product pricing and availability can be obtained by contacting the AirSpade
Customer Service Department or on our airspade.com website.

How can I obtain current AirSpade product
literature?

Product literature can be viewed or downloaded via the Product Literature
section of the airspade.com website.

TECHNICAL

What is the difference between Pressure, Flow,
and Thrust?

Pressure is the measure of potential energy stored within compressed air.
Pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). In general, most tow­behind compressors deliver pressures between 80 and 120 psi. The electrical
equivalent of pressure is voltage.

[26]

[27]

Flow is the volume of compressed air traveling through an air line during a given period of time. Flow is measured in cubic feet per minute (cfm). In general,
higher flow requires an increased capacity (larger horsepower) air compressor. In general, increasing the amount of flow may require a larger capacity
(larger diameter) air line. The electrical equivalent of flow is amperage.

Thrust is the effective force produced by an air nozzle and is generated from the combination of air pressure and air flow. Thrust is measured in pounds (lbs)
and the higher the thrust, the more excavation force available. The electrical equivalent of thrust is wattage.

How does AirSpade work?

The patented supersonic nozzle in the AirSpade turns compressed air into a high-speed, laser-like jet moving at twice the speed of sound; Mach 2.
All of the energy and momentum of this air moving at approximately 1,200 mph is focused on the soil, dislodging it in a fraction of a second. Soil is an
unconsolidated assemblage of solid particles that may or may not contain organic matter. The voids between the particles are occupied by air and/or water.
The aggregate nature of soil aids the ability of the compressed air to fracture it; while stronger materials and ones that are not porous like metal or plastic
pipes, cables, or even tree roots remain unaffected.

What size air compressor do I need to properly run my AirSpade?

Tow-behind air compressors typically have model numbers that nominally describe their air capacity measured in cubic feet per minute (cfm) at a pressure of
100 pounds per square inch (psi). For example, a “185 compressor” delivers 185 cfm at 100 psi. AirSpade nozzles are designed to optimally operate at 90
psi and are designated by the volume of air delivered at 90 psi. Six nozzle sizes are available to cover the size range of most tow-behind compressors.

Recommended Compressor Size

Nozzle Size

(scfm)

25 25

60 60

105 125

150 175

225 250

330 355

Minimum Compressor Size

(scfm @ 100 psig)

[27]

Will adjusting my compressor to deliver a higher pressure make the AirSpade work better?

No. AirSpade nozzles are designed to operate optimally at 90 psi. Supplying higher pressure to a supersonic nozzle that has been optimized for 90 psi actu­ally defocuses the air-jet, thus degrading performance while dramatically increasing air consumption.

What size air hose do I need for my AirSpade?

Compressed air flowing through a hose experiences a pressure loss from constrictions and friction proportional to the length of the hose. Air volume,
operating pressure, hose ID and smoothness also determine the loss. For more information on air hose pressure loss visit our website. Generally speaking,
air hose of at least 1” ID is recommended for most AirSpade applications. The AirSpade 3000 requires a minimum air hose ID of 1.25”. To ensure
satisfactory digging performance, air hose can always be sized larger than required, but not smaller.

Pressure Loss (psig)

Air Flow/Nozzle Size (scfm)

25 60 105 150 225

¾” 0.3 1.6 5.6 12.3 25.0

1” 0.1 0.4 1.3 2.8 5.5

Hose ID

1¼” 0.0 0.1 0.4 0.8 2.0

What about connectors and fittings?

Be sure that fittings and/or connectors do not restrict the air flow in any manner. Use fittings that are rated the same size, or larger, for a given air line size.
We recommend the use of Chicago style “Air King” fittings, used in conjunction with safety pins.

In what types of soils does AirSpade work?

Because of its unique, focused air-jet, the AirSpade is effective in virtually all soils and even hard clays. In general, the AirSpade will not cut through rock.
However, shale may be broken apart by the AirSpade if the jet is directed between the laminations of the rock. Similarly, the AirSpade will not dislodge hard,
frozen soil that tends to behave like pavement or concrete.

Can I use the AirSpade for digging in clay?

Tests show the AirSpade to be effective in compacted soils with unconfined compressive strengths well above the values listed for hard clay.

[28]

airspade.com

[29]

What is the best way to dig with the AirSpade?

The AirSpade effectively digs up to several inches deep in medium to stiff soil. Unless the soil is highly compacted, dwelling on the same spot is unnecessary
and tends to increase spray. Ideally, the AirSpade should be moved over the soil surface at a rate of about 1’ to 2’ per second. When several inches of soil have
been loosened, the soil should be removed to expose a fresh working face for the air jet. Watering the work area ahead of time can sometimes be
helpful. Water reduces soil strength thus making digging easier. Water also reduces airborne dust if the soil is extremely dry. Combining the use of the AirSpade
with a low-pressure water source (garden hose) can aid the excavation of highly compacted or sun-baked soils.

What size AirSpade nozzle should I use?

This depends on soil classification and the desired rate of soil excavation. Typical soil excavation rates can be expected for various AirSpade nozzle sizes.

Soil Excavation Rates

Nozzle Size

(scfm)

25 0.4 to 0.9

60 0.7 to 1.1

105 0.9 to 1.5

150 1.2 to 1.8

225 1.7 to 2.3

330 2.4 to 3.0

Soil Excavation Rates

(cubic ft/ min)

What are the advantage of digging with AirSpade as opposed to high-pressure water?

• Dangerous, high-pressure water jet can easily cut through clothes or work boots.

• High-pressure water can inadvertently cut through a plastic electric or gas line and/or harm pipe coatings.

• Liquid introduced into the excavation site increases the volume and weight of soils slated for disposal.

• Resulting muddy conditions promote poor footing around job site.

• Mud and splashing water is messy to contain, and often results in wet worker clothing.

• Mud generated from water-excavated, contaminated soil can become a much larger disposal problem.

• Mud, when dumped onto a given area and dried, does not blend-in and thus secondary operations may be required.

• Water has a tendency to accidentally undermine areas adjacent to the excavation.

• Water is heavy, bulky and poses transportation and storage issues.

[29]

Patented Supersonic Nozzle

AirSpade’s patented supersonic nozzle turns compressed air into a

high-speed, laser-like jet moving at twice the speed of sound – Mach 2. All of

the energy and momentum of air moving at approximately 1,200 mph is

focused into the soil – dislodging it in a fraction of a second.

Unfocused air flow from

improperly designed nozzle.

Air exiting from an improperly designed nozzle diffuses outward rapidly to

3 to 4 times the area versus the focused air-jet from the patented

AirSpade supersonic nozzle. With AirSpade, the result is faster, safer,

more efficient soil excavation.

Focused air flow from

AirSpade supersonic nozzle.

Standard Details 21

RADIAL TRENCHING W/ AIRSPADE

1/4" = 1'-0"

3

45° OR AS

SPECIFIED, TYP.

SEE PLAN DIAGRAMS

EXISTING SUBGRADE 'C' HORIZON

10' MAX.

PLAN - DRIPLINE

<

30'

Ø

N.T.S.

PLAN - DRIPLINE

>

30' Ø

N.T.S.

10' MAX.

10' MAX.

±60.0°

±30.0°

45.0°

AXONOMETRIC

TRENCH W/ AIRSPADE, AVOID MAJOR ROOT
LEADERS, REMOVE EXISTING SOIL AND REPLACE
WITH SPECIFIED SOIL OR BLENDED
SOIL AUGMENTATION, TYP.

EXISTING TOPSOIL 'A' HORIZON

TRENCH W/ AIRSPADE, TYP.

TRENCH W/ AIRSPADE, TYP.

TREE TRUNK

TREE DRIPLINE OR
CRITICAL ROOT ZONE

1x TO 1.5x DRIPLINE

AS SPECIFIED

TREE TRUNK

1x TO 1.5x DRIPLINE

AS SPECIFIED

NOTES:

1. SPACING, WIDTH AND DEPTH OF RADIAL TRENCHING TO BE DETERMINED BY L.A. AND/OR
CERTIFIED ARBORIST BASED ON INITIAL SITE INVESTIGATION. SPECIFIED TRENCHING AND
SOIL AUGMENTATION SHOULD BE BASED ON INDIVIDUAL SITE CONDITIONS AND TREE
HEALTH CARE NEEDS. ACTUAL LOCATION OF TRENCHING MAY BE ADJUSTED SLIGHTLY
BASED ON FIELD CONDITIONS. TRENCHES SHOULD OCCUR BETWEEN ROOTS AND AVOID
FOLLOWING PRIMARY LEADERS.

2. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR
APPROVED CONTRACTOR. ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT
EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS PRIOR TO COMMENCING WORK.

3. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND
DIG ONLY WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL DAMAGES TO
TREES AT COMMENCEMENT AND THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK. DAMAGES TO BE
COMPENSATED BASED ON PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE SPECIFICATIONS.

4. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL MUST BE
NEAR FIELD CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE TEST PRIOR TO
USE OF AN AIRSPADE. HAND WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF
WORK AND WITHIN 24 HOURS OF COMPLETION. COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS
NECESSARY DURING WORK.

5. ARBORIST TO EVALUATE THE OVERALL HEALTH OF TREES, AND TO MAKE A REPORT AND
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL TREE CARE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE
COMPLETION OF WORK.

6 CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE EXISTING
UTILITIES PRIOR TO ANY EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGE TO THESE AT NO COST TO THE
OWNER.

7. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S
GUIDE FOR PROPER SAFETY AND OPERATION.

SOIL 'B' HORIZON

10"-12" OR AS
SPECIFIED, TYP.

4" TYP.

TREE DRIPLINE OR
CRITICAL ROOT ZONE

VAR.VAR.

EXISTING TREE ROOTS, TYP.

several years to make more extensive improvements to a tree’s soil.

Radial trenching is preferably done throughout the dripline or beyond.
Once the removal of turf and plant material is complete and the trench
pattern is laid out (it may be helpful to paint guides on the ground), the
operator can begin excavation. The operator will continuously move the
AirSpade while holding the tool at a 30° to 45° angle to achieve the
specified depth and working side to side to control the trench width.
While digging a trench, plywood sheets are recommended to cover
adjacent trenches to prevent refilling. The soil can then be collected to
be replaced or amended, or it may be augmented in place. An AirSpade
can be used in the soil replacement process to help blend the new and
existing soil, and to fill pockets around tree roots.

Linear trenching is a variation of radial trenching in which an area
is trenched in parallel rows rather than in a radial pattern. This is
useful for working in planted beds or in areas with trees planted
closely together. Another technique similar to radial trenching is called
root trenching, in which select primary root leaders are deliberately
uncovered rather than avoided. Root trenching is often used to train
roots deep into the soil, under a paved surface, and into adjacent
planting soils or to install a root barrier.

Radial trenching with AirSpade is done to modify soil composition,
improve aeration, and encourage root growth to moderate depths
(typically 10”-12” or more), and is especially effective when trees have
highly stratified or shallow depth of viable soil or anaerobic conditions.
Additionally, this application can be useful in planting areas where
minimal disturbance is desired.

Radial trenching is shown to encourage deep root growth far reaching
from the trunk and between structural root leaders. An appropriate
soil augmentation strategy is vital to each individual project. Because
radial trenching is not as uniform as air tilling for soil augmentation,
it can produce undesirable concentrations of nutrients if not properly
considered. It’s therefore important to carefully select amendments
that are compatible with existing soils, and it can be beneficial to
perform air tilling in combination with radial trenching. For example, it
may be preferable to augment soil within radial trenches with a higher
percentage of porous inorganic materials (such as sand) to improve
aeration and to then amend the top soil with a higher percentage of
organic nutrients using the more uniform air tilling (or root invigoration)
procedure. Alternatively, established trees that are struggling to
survive in poor soils may benefit from a long-term strategy in which
radial trenching is performed several times and over the course of

Radial Trenching

Technical Applications Guide

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