Trencor introduces first large-scale upgrade to 1400-series trenchers
American Augers/Trencor, a Charles Machine Works company, has released the first large-scale upgrade to its proven 1400-series trencher line since its introduction. The new T14-54/617 trencher features a Tier 4 Final emissions compliant engine, state-of-the-art electronics and customer-requested features.
"The T14 pays tribute to the venerable 1400-series with its name," said Lee Drugan, Marketing Manager for American Augers and Trencor. "The 54/617 part of the nomenclature refers to its 54-inch-wide maximum-cut capability and its powerful 460 kW (617 hp) Tier 4 Final engine."
Trencor 1400-series trenchers, including the most recent, T1460 model, have been the choice of pipeline, utility and surface mining operations for over 20 years. Many of the first trencher models are still hard at work in the field, said Jared Bird, Trencor Engineering Project Manager.
The T14-54/617 now offers the market a Tier 4-compliant trencher with additional modifications inspired directly from operator input gathered in the field, Bird said.
The T14 rig's new electronics package includes a digital operator display in the cab, upgraded software and a state-of-the-art telematics package. The telematics package enables the rig to gather, log and transmit real-time operating data used for predictive maintenance, reporting requirements or overall optimization of trenching operations.
Emission compliance is based on a Tier 4 Final Mercedes MTU6R1500 industrial/mining diesel engine. The Mercedes engine offered many advantages, Bird said. "It runs so cleanly that no regen cycle is required. That greatly increases reliability. Its wide rpm range of power output maintains full productivity in even the toughest conditions." It also lowers cost of maintenance and total cost of ownership.
The Mercedes engine runs at lower, quieter speeds, yet generates torque rated up to 2,900 Nm (2,139 ft.-lb.) at 1,300 rpm. Benefits of the engine's lower rpm include significantly reduced fuel consumption and noise levels. A new hydraulically driven, variable-speed cooling fan also contributes to improved fuel economy and reduced engine load.
A redesigned T14 undercarriage features an innovative attachment method to a heavier, stronger mainframe. Improved hose routing and use of hard lines add to ease of service, require less frequent maintenance, and contribute to lower cost of ownership.
Safety enhancements include a new digging drive brake and optional cameras in the cab that increase operator visibility of the worksite. T14-54/617 trencher options include a new quiet pack for running in sound-sensitive environments, such as urban worksites, and a counterweight package that increases the machine's width and depth capabilities.
