There are two types of powertrains currently in use with chain trenchers. In recent years, the hydrostatic drive has been perhaps the most common method of delivering power to moving parts. But the hydrostatic drive does have some shortcomings, including power lost due to heat, inherent inefficiencies with hydraulic pumps and motors, system complexity, high maintenance costs, and a short band of digging speeds. The mechanical drive, on the other hand, offers a range of positive benefits and only one fairly noticeable drawback: a somewhat limited flexibility of component position.
Our technologically advanced approch has proven superior to the less powerful hydrostatic or competitive mechanical systems for hard rock applications. The Trencor Mechanical Powertrain® features a multi-speed powershift transmission with torque converter, heavy-duty defferential, and fully enclosed chain final drive, all of which combine for a multiplication of torque output. With this arrangement, higher torque is available at lower chain speeds. Low chain speed operation allows better penetration, reducing tooth cost and machine wear.
Here are the seven big advantages that come with Trencor’s exclusive mechanical drive:
Increased Torque
More than 90% of the engine horsepower can be delivered to the cutting tool.
Increased Productivity
The cutting tool tends to break out more and larger pieces of material thanks to the slow-moving digging tooth and the force delivered by the high torque.
Broader Range of Chain Speeds
There is a transmission in the Trencor mechanical drive that lets the operator choose a digging speed that matches the digging conditions.
Reduced Fuel Costs
The additional horsepower delivered by the system gets more work done in the same amount of time.
Ease of Repair
The system is much less complex. In most cases, a simple visual inspection can lead to the diagnosis of a problem.
Lower Repair Costs
The components of the system are mostly off-the-shelf parts that can be replaced at a relatively low cost. There are also fewer moving parts to wear out or break.
Long Machine Life
A mechanical drive system can better absorb the pounding shocks of trenching operations. The average life of a Trencor mechanical powertrain trencher is quite long—which permits amortization of the machine over a longer period of time.
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