AIR-EX 2 - (2023

The VAC-EX Ltd's AIR-EX is a compressed air-powered air excavation tool used for ground decompaction & clearance of spoil from underground assets in a wide variety of soils.

The lightweight and durable AIR-EX lance is one of the industry leading safe excavation tools with effective ground cutting depths of 100mm, this tool enables safe, effective, stress free excavation around buried fibre optics, gas, water, electric, tree root systems and underground obstructions.

The AIR-EX is available in lengths from 1.380m - 2.380m which can be used with multiple nozzle types and a variety of extension lengths. This makes the AIR-EX a very versitle tool which ultimately optimises operator performance.

(integrated non-sparking tips which concentrate the air flow into a high velocity stream jet that penetrates & dislodges the soil in milliseconds, without damage to buried objects).

Will the AIR-EX damage a utility?

De-compacting the Ground

Working around tree roots

Technical Specifications

	Type 1	Type 2
Part No. *	VX-AE-01	VX-AE-02
Weight *	2.9 kg (6.3 lbs)	4.15 kg (9.1 lbs)
Length *	1.180 m (46.5 in)	2.190 m (86.2 in)
Shaft Diameter	51mm Ø (1.96 in)
H.A.V.S.	0 m/s² - No vibration
Claw Coupling **	19mm (3/4 in) Claw
Compressor Requirements	72 - 116 psi (5 - 8 bar) 2.2m³/min - 4.5m³/min (80 - 160 cfm)
dB level	100 dBA (Close proximity to compressor)
Nozzle Type	Non-Sparking
Effective ‘cut’	100mm (4in) (ground dependent)
Test Voltage (shaft)	75 kV per 304mm (1 ft)
IEEE 516-2021	Compliant (Maintenance and electrical testing of live line tools)
EN 61235	Compliant (Insulating hollow tubes for electrical purposes)

* Excludes nozzle

The New AIR-EX (2.0)

The new AIR-EX (2.0) was developed in 2021 by our in-house design R&D team. The goal was to improve on our original AIR-EX (1.0) by making the tool lighter, more ergonomic, & stronger for the end users.

How the AIR-EX Works

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

Cold Handle Mechanism

Most users know air excavation tooling can get hot either because of excessive working or airflow within the handle. The AIR-EX 2.0 handle maintains an ambient temperature during use enabling the operatives to work in comfort for longer and more effectively.

Featherlight Control Trigger

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

Ergonomic Design

If the user is comfortable with a tool, we normally find the uptake in its use increases. Combining both lightweight construction, the improved Auxiliary Handle and the choice of extensions, user fatigue should now be further reduced.

Lightweight and 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 lance's lightweight construction is just right.

Featherlight Control Trigger

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

PEHD Insulated Shaft

Unlike many 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 2.75 kg.

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

AIR-EX History

The AIR-EX 1.0 was developed and manufactured between 2006 - 2022 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!

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

Insulation Testing

The AIR-EX has been independently tested to 75,000 Volts per foot (of HDPE shaft)

Test Certificate

Tested to standards

EN 61235
IEEE 516-2021

AIR-EX Training

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

Compressed Air - Tested

During manufacture each and every AIR-EX is pressure tested during the manufacturing process

Zero H.A.V.S.

The AIR-EX has been independently tested by HAVI. An accelerometer was affixed to the rear of the handle and all three axes were tested.

X axis = 0.0m/s²
Y axis = 0.0m/s²
Z axis = 0.0m/s²

Results showed a Zero HAV risk to the operator.

Non-Sparking Nozzle

We utilise non-sparking nozzles which are an obvious benefit to those working around leaking gas mains or environments that maybe gas enriched.

Ergonomic Design

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

Rubber Debris Cone

Our robust Debris Cones are designed to keep their shape whilst in use, maximising the deflection of airborne materials away from the user. The ribbed nozzle now allows for better & safer positioning or removal of the debris cone.

Dead-Man's Handle

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

Adjustable Auxiliary Handle

The height and orientation of the handle can be easily and quickly be positioned, which reduces physical effort, improves ergonomics & also increases control whilst working around live services.

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. Contact us for further information.

Effective Cutting Depth

Depending on the compressor size, nozzle size, and soil type, the air stream exiting the nozzle will generally cut upto 100mm / 4" before the compressed air decompresses to atmospheric pressure.

Nozzles

Our lightweight non-sparking nozzles, concentrate the air flow into a high velocity stream that has a functional 'cutting depth' of 100mm. The ribbed surface allows for the convienient positioning of the debris cone.

AIR-EX vs Other Makes

After close scrutiny of other Air excavation lances in the market, we feel it's now fair to say the AIR-EX 2.0 has a noticeable weight saving in comparison. Utimately it always comes down to user preference - all we ask from you is to compare first to realise the difference.

Parts Shop

Visit our Parts Shop for a full list of AIR-EX parts and accessories.

https://parts.vac-ex.com/contact/products/

Handle Personalisation

In order quantities over 10+ we are able to offer the personalisation of the handle. This could be a company Logo or text. This option reduces the risk of thieft and promotes brand awareness. This option has an additional two week delivery lead time.

AIR-EX 2.0

PN: VX-AE-02

Request a Price

Debris Cone

PN: VXP-031

Request a Price

Auxiliary Handle

P#: VX-ANH-01

Request a Price

180mm Flat End Nozzle

P#: VX-TFN-180-7

Request a Price

300mm F-Nozzle 7

P#: VX-SFN-300

Request a Price

45° F-Nozzle 7

P#: VX-AFN-45-7

Request a Price