AIR-EX

The AIR-EX is the industry leading tool for ground decompaction and clearance of spoil from underground assets. With air speeds of up to 1500 mph/ 2414 kph with pressures up to and exceeding 100psi it enables safe, effective, stress free excavation around buried fibre optics, gas, water or electric.

Our Vulcanex Nozzles, with non-sparking tips, concentrate the air flow in to a high velocity stream jet that penetrates the soil and dislodges the soil in milliseconds without damage to buried objects.

Will the AIR-EX damage a utility?

De-compacting the Ground

Working in the Footpath

Technical Specifications

	Type A	Type B	Type C
Length of Body	610 mm	1000 mm	1000mm
Weight (Handle & Body)	1.75 kg	2 kg	2 kg
Compressor (cfm) *	40 - 180 CFM	40 - 180 CFM	40 - 180 CFM
Pressure (psi / bar)	72 – 174 Psi or 5 – 12 bar
dB level (Close proximity to compressor)	93 dB	93 dB	93 dB
HAVS	0 (Zero)	0 (Zero)	0 (Zero)
Effective ‘cut’	100mm	100mm	100mm
BS 3054:1959 (Fireman’s Axe)	Complies	Complies	Complies
BS EN 61235:1995 (Live working – Insulating hollow tubes for electrical working)	Tested	Tested	Tested
Tested to:	75 kV	75 kV	75 kV
Claw type Quick Connector**	¾” Claw	¾” Claw	¾” Claw

* Please refer to Nozzle table to specify correct nozzle for your compressor type

** Other regional variants are available on request

AIR Compressor (cfm)	Nozzle Bore (mm)
Up to 80	7
80 – 110	8
Over 110	10

These are guides and may vary depending on the application

Type B & C handle

Type A handle

OUR MACHINES ARE USED WITHIN

Idea For the AIR-EX

The AIR-EX was developed in 2006 as we were unable to find a robust and suitable tool on the market that met our daily operational needs. We encountered air tooling that was either not insulated or that broke following a few weeks of operation. This wasn’t good enough!

Lightweight but robust

Every tool can be strong but that normally comes at a price on weight or durability. We believe the balance of the Air-Ex’s lightweight PEHD & aluminium construction is just right.

Ergonomic Design

If the user is comfortable, we normally find the uptake in its use increases.

PEHD insulated shaft

Unlike other air excavators, the Air-Ex is made from high density polyethylene (PEHD),
which is known for its strength to density ratio, resulting in an extremely durable tool
that weighs under 3kg.

Further benefits of using PEHD are its intrinsic non-conductive properties, which we
have independently tested to 75kV and its high tensile strength, which is superior to
woven materials such as fibre glass (GRP).

Featherlight Control trigger

The actuator valve requires minimal force to engage, reducing hand and forearm fatigue and the risk of any repetitive strain related disorders.

How the AIR-EX works

The powerful compressed air is channelled into the ground finding existing voids, fissures which creates fractures and in milliseconds loosening the ground. The compressed air safely works around objects such as pipes and cables as they are non-porous.

Enter yourThe AIR-EX, the utility professionals safe excavating tool of choice.

Dead-Man's Handle

Incorporates a dead mans trigger which instantaneously shuts off the air supply if released. In addition, the Tigger Guard prevents accidental air release should the unit be dropped.

Insulation Testing

The Air-Ex has been laboratory tested to 75 kV to ensure the user has a degree of protection from electrocution.

Insulated Handle

Most users know air excavation tooling can sometimes get hot either because of excessive working or no aftercooler fitter to the compressor – the Air-Ex’s easily attachable heat insulated Thermo handle wrap & PE shaft provides excellent thermal protection enabling the operatives to work in comfort for longer and more effectively.

Compressed Air - Tested

During manufacture each and every Air-Ex is pressure tested.

Ergonomic Design

We offer the a choice in handle design, shaft length and auxiliary handle positioning. No two operatives are the same and everyone has a preference. If the user is comfortable, we normally find the uptake in its use increases. Overall this minimises musculoskeletal stress and maximises operative comfort.

Flammable Environments

We utilise non-sparking tips on the ends of our Vulcanex Nozzles which are an obvious benefit to those working in environments that maybe gas enriched.

Zero HAVS

The Air-Ex has been independently tested by HAVI and results show a Zero HAV risk to the operator.

Featherlight Control trigger

The actuator valve requires minimal force to engage, reducing hand and forearm fatigue and the risk of any repetitive strain related disorders.

Adjustable Auxiliary Handle

The height and pitch can be decided by the operator, so as to reduce physical effort improve ergonomics and also increase the control whilst working around live services.

Rubber Debris Cone

Our robust Debris cones are designed to keep their shape whilst in use to maximise the deflection of airborne materials away from the user.

Air-Ex training

We offer Manufactures training on both the safe and efficient use of the AIR-EX lance. Please contact us for further details.

Vulcanex Nozzles

Our Vulcanex Nozzles, with non-sparking heads, concentrate the air flow into a high velocity stream that has a functional 'cutting depth' of 100mm.

Cutting Clay

Whilst the AIR-EX performs excellently in most built up grounds (especially around utilities) we do encounter many different clays that can react differently depending on the season. Please contact us for further information.

AIR-EX vs other makes

After close scrutiny of our closest competition its fair to say there is very little, if any noticable difference. It really comes down to user preference, robustness, and quality all of which we know the AIR-EX possesses.

AIR-EX type A

PN: VXP-047-01

Buy Now

AIR-EX Style B

PN: VXP-047-02

Buy Now

AIR-EX Style C

PN: VXP-048-01

Buy Now

Debris Cone

PN: VXP-031

Buy Now

200mm Brass Tipped Nozzle

PN: VXP-049-01

Buy Now

400mm Brass Tipped Nozzle

PN: VXP-049-03

Buy Now

45 degree Brass Tipped Nozzle

PN: VXP-049-02

Buy Now

400mm Extension

PN: VXP-050-01

Buy Now

Debris Skirt

PN: VXP-512-01

Buy Now

Thermo Handle Wrap

PN: VXP-514

Buy Now

Auxiliary Handle

PN: VXP-515

Buy Now

Whip Check

PN: VXP-032

Buy Now

Tool Kit Bag

PN: VXP-043

Buy Now

Debris Net

PN: VXP-044

Buy Now

Manual

PN: VXP-045

Buy Now

Decals -Full Replacement Set

PN: VXP-052

Buy Now

Share your Air-Ex Experience with us at...

Next Steps

Build your AIR-EX Product Sheet