HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TRENCHER FOR YOUR PROJECT

When it comes to trenching, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. From laying drainage on a sports field to installing fibre optic cables or improving crop yields on farmland, your project demands the right machine for the job.

At AFT Trenchers, we’ve built our reputation on providing purpose-built solutions across three key sectors: civil engineering, agriculture, and sports turf drainage (including golf course drainage) solutions. Here’s how to choose the right trencher for your next project.

CIVIL ENGINEERING: TRENCHING IN DEMANDING ENVIRONMENTS

Civil engineering trenching requires machinery that’s precise, adaptable, and tough enough to handle high-demand environments. Whether you’re installing utilities, fibre networks, or drainage systems, the right trencher can dramatically improve speed, accuracy, and cost-efficiency.

MH100: Designed for use with larger excavators, the MH100 is highly versatile and perfect for trenching in locations that are awkward or difficult to reach. It can dig over barriers, down slopes, and even in canals, making it ideal for complex civil engineering projects.

HW60: This hydraulic wheel trencher mounts to skid steer loaders and is a top choice for clean, rapid trenching in urban environments. Commonly used for fibre optic installation, the HW60 offers accuracy and minimal disruption to roads and pavements.

AFT100: A rugged, tractor-mounted chain trencher designed to cut through difficult ground, including hard surfaces like concrete. It’s ideal for major infrastructure projects where powerful, deep trenching is needed quickly and efficiently.

Wizz Wheel 75: This powerful wheel trencher is ideal for long-distance runs such as those required for fibre optic cabling or water pipes. Known for its high cutting speed and precision, it reduces downtime and increases project turnaround.

AFT45: A compact option that still packs a punch. Suitable for small-scale civil works or projects in tight, confined urban areas, the AFT45 is easy to manoeuvre and capable of producing professional-grade trenching.

We recently partnered with Tugwell Contracting on a large-scale solar farm project that showcased the power, precision, and efficiency of AFT trenching equipment in renewable energy applications. The project involved the installation of extensive cabling infrastructure across the site, an ideal fit for our trenchers, which delivered clean, narrow cuts with minimal disruption to the surrounding ground.

Thanks to the speed and reliability of our machines, Tugwell was able to keep the project on track and within budget, even under demanding site conditions. You can read the full case study and see how AFT Trenchers helped power up a greener future here.

AGRICULTURE: IMPROVING YIELDS THROUGH DRAINAGE

On farms, proper drainage is essential for maintaining soil health, increasing crop yields, and ensuring field accessibility for machinery. Saturated soil can lead to stunted growth, delayed planting, and difficult working conditions. AFT’s trenchers are purpose-built to help farmers take control of their land and boost productivity.

AFT100: A robust machine capable of creating precise, high-capacity drainage systems. It attaches to tractors with 80–140+hp and can be configured to lay pipe and gravel simultaneously. With optional add-ons like a pipe reel and gravel hopper, this trencher enables efficient drainage installation without needing to bring in outside contractors.

AFT45 with Auger: Designed for smaller tractors, this model is perfect for farms with lighter machinery or for targeting specific areas of poor drainage. The auger attachment helps lift and clear soil efficiently, and its compact design ensures it can access tighter spaces.

Both machines can be paired with laser grading systems, ensuring a consistent gradient and optimal drainage results.

SPORTS TURF & GOLF COURSE: PRECISION FOR PLAYABILITY

When it comes to sports turf, trenching must be carried out with extreme precision to maintain the quality and safety of the playing surface. From world-class football stadiums to community golf courses, the demands are high, and AFT delivers.

AFT45 (Chain or Wheel): Compact and versatile, the AFT45 is widely used for drainage and irrigation installations on sports fields and golf courses. It offers minimal disruption to surfaces and can be adjusted for a variety of trenching depths and widths.

AFT100: For large-scale sports turf projects, the AFT100 brings power and reliability. It’s capable of deep, fast trenching, even in less-than-ideal ground conditions.

Wizz Wheel 55 & 75: Built to cope with everything from hard, dry turf to wet, boggy ground, these wheel trenchers are ideal for intensive drainage systems where speed and consistency are key.

Sandbander & Dual Use Hopper: These specialist tools are designed for precise backfilling and sand slit installation. They allow for clean, quick trench reinstatement, even in wet weather.

AFT Traction: A self-propelled, pedestrian trencher perfect for smaller-scale landscaping and amenity work. Ideal for contractors managing irrigation, cable laying, or drainage in confined or sensitive areas.

NEED HELP CHOOSING?

Still unsure which trencher is right for your project? Let’s chat. With decades of industry experience and a broad product range, AFT Trenchers can guide you to the ideal machine, whether you’re preparing farmland, upgrading civic infrastructure, or maintaining elite sports surfaces.

Get in touch today and let’s dig in the right direction – together.