When it comes to construction, you have to be very thorough, whether it’s the equipment, materials, process, or overall phase. The foundation is one of the crucial aspects of construction since here lies the stability and overall structure. One of the best ways to prevent soil movement and work on underground utilities is through the use of trench shoring. After all, trench collapses must be prevented at all costs, which is why contractors often employ the use of trench boxes for shoring to protect the safety of their workers and prevent cave-ins.
What are trench boxes, and how do they work?
Trench boxes for shoring are structures usually made of aluminum or steel that are used to protect construction workers and other professionals from cave-ins while performing their tasks in the trench. Otherwise called trench shields, they are mostly used during the pouring of foundations, installation of pipes, and underground cablework.
A trench box is usually made up of four parts, namely:
- Panels. These elements make up the wall of the trenches with its vertical sections.
- Struts. The struts provide lateral support to the trench by connecting the horizontal members to the panels.
- Hydraulic cylinders. These elements are used to adjust the wall pressure on the trench box so that the surrounding soil won’t cave in.
- Walers. The walers are vertical components of the panels and struts that provide reinforcement.
What are the types of trench boxes?
There are different types of trench boxes available on the market depending on what you will use them for. Here are some of the most commonly used in the field:
Hydraulic trench boxes. Considered one of the most versatile because of how adjustable it is. Hydraulic trench boxes can be extended and retracted easily and are used in different soil conditions. The only downside to this trench box is that it has a complex installation method and needs regular maintenance.
Manual trench boxes. This type of trench box is simple, and based on the name itself, it doesn’t need any pneumatic or hydraulic power. Compared to the others, it’s not as flexible, and it can be a bit of a hassle to install in deeper trenches.
Pneumatic trench boxes. When it comes to narrow and confined spaces, the pneumatic trench box is the best choice since it can be easily installed in such a compromising situation. Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for all soil types, and it’s much less versatile than hydraulic trench boxes.
Slide rail trench boxes. If you want a trench box that’s easy to assemble, then the slide rail trench box is the best choice for convenience. It can also be disassembled quickly and can be transported from one location to the next without much hassle. However, some of the cons of this type are that it’s not suitable for all soil conditions and can be difficult to install in narrow trenches.
Trench boxes are one of the most important pieces of equipment when it comes to construction projects that involve trenching. By understanding the different types, you can make an informed decision on which type you should choose depending on what your project needs so you can ensure a safe and secure construction.