Vacall's new compact vacuum excavator does not require operators to have a CDL

Gradall Industries is introducing the compact new Vacall AllExcavate 35, designed for high-performance vacuum excavation work by municipalities and contractors.

In developing the AE 35, Vacall partnered with Daimler Truck, one of the world's largest commercial vehicle manufacturers, resulting in a vacuum excavator that delivers a high-level of reliability and performance as well as convenient service and use requirements that do not require operators to have extensive training or Commercial Drivers Licenses.

Specially priced to fit tight municipal and rental business budgets, AE 35 vacuum excavators are highly versatile, typically handling the following jobs:

• Locating fiber-optic lines
• Exposing and repairing water lines
• Identifying sewer and gas lines
• Locating electrical lines
• Valve box cleanouts
• Responding to water line breaks
• Preparing for utility pole setting
• Trenching, potholing, and daylighting

Features of the AE 35 vacuum excavator 

Beneath the textured exterior finish on the AE 35 lies one of the most important advantages of the new Vacall model — a fully galvanized 3.5 cubic-yard debris body. Rather than follow the economical industry trend of traditional coatings or less resilient materials, Vacall is the only vacuum excavator brand that benefits from a hot-dip galvanizing process. With this process, the zinc metallurgically bonds to the steel body, creating a layered defense that resists corrosion, abrasion, abuse and harsh year-after-year job site environments.

High-quality aluminum components are also engineered for high strength, less weight, and the ability to withstand harsh conditions, meaning Vacall components won't fade, crack, leak, or warp — even under continuous exposure to sun, weather and demanding job site use.​

Vacall 500-gallon water tanks are purpose-designed specifically for the AE 35. Far superior to aftermarket add-ons or generic components, Vacall tanks are engineered from the ground up to integrate seamlessly with the unit's performance, durability, and safety requirements.​

The water tank is strategically mounted behind the cab, maximizing capacity while maintaining an ideal centre of gravity and balanced weight distribution. This design also enhances driver safety and ensures compliance with local weight and transport regulations, delivering an overall superior tank system with high durability, optimal performance and peace of mind on every job.

The AE 35 vacuum system is powered by the proven Howden Roots 6-foot × 16-foot blower, producing 2,200 CFM at 15 inches of vacuum and an impressive 2,446 CFM of free air. Driven by a Chelsea PTO with a fully hydrostatic system, the configuration ensures smooth, reliable, and efficient power delivery.​

To protect the blower and maintain peak performance, the system includes a 304 stainless steel filter housing and screen assembly, paired with a single drop-out box for effective debris separation. A 4-inch vacuum-relief valve, operated directly from the control panel, allows the operator to manage vacuum levels with precision and confidence.​

The 0-10 GPM at 3,000 PSI water flow is delivered by a hydraulically driven Pratissoli triplex water pump, delivering reliable, on-demand pressure for a wide range of excavation applications. This intelligent hydraulic setup produces full pressure when needed and automatically reduces output when the job requires less water, improving efficiency and minimizing wear.​

As a triplex pump, it produces a smooth, steady stream of water — ensuring consistent cutting performance and maximizing productivity on every job. These pumps are trusted worldwide across demanding industrial applications for their durability, serviceability and proven reliability ­— superior to other pump designs that can be difficult to service, costly to replace and less dependable in the field.

Weighing 26,000 pounds, the AE 35 does not require drivers and operators to have a Commercial Driver's License or undergo complicated, specialized training. AE 35 controls are designed to be simple, intuitive and logically arranged to keep operation straightforward and efficient, while allowing operators to pull into a jobsite, park, engage and excavate.

The compact footprint can also be easily manoeuvred through tight spaces, including alleys, easements and narrow urban streets where larger machines can't go.

Height and width are also designed for high accessibility, allowing AE 35 models to navigate congested and confined environments with ease.