World Pipelines - March 2020

Heavy equipment review

TESMEC GROUP,

ITALY

esmec Group was

established in 1951

and specialises in the

design, manufacture,

and sale of systems, technologies,

and integrated solutions for the

construction and maintenance of

infrastructures related to the transport

and distribution of energy, data, and

materials.

The group is active in a range of sectors,

including oil, gas, and water pipelines,

telecommunication networks, transmission and

distribution power lines, and drainage operations.

The latest developments in trencher machinery

have led to the launch of the new EVO series on

Tesmec’s 975, 1150, 1475, and 1675 models. As a result

of improved flywheels gearboxes, new hydraulic

components, and the release of the TrenchTronic 5.0

for full digital control of the automatic digging function,

EVO series machines combine lower chain speed and higher

chain-pull in order to have higher break-out force of the

teeth.

In case of abrasive rock, teeth consumption is the main

operating cost; the only way to increase the teeth life and

achieve a significant cost saving is to reduce the digging

chain speed. EVO machines are designed to trench hard

and abrasive rock, resulting in high productivity and cost

efficiency, combined with a significant fuel consumption

reduction.

Compared to the previous generation of machines,

the improvement in digging performance is applicable

in the toughest conditions: hard solid rock and deep

trenching. Tesmec EVO chainsaw machines are

already involved in most of Tesmec’s oil and gas

pipeline projects across the world, resulting in

improvement in performances. These models

are designed to ensure minimal over-

excavation with regular trench walls and

floor. The excavated material is deposited

in a continuous windrow alongside the

trench.

For example, on a Tesmec jobsite

in Kuwait – where both the old

1475 and new 1475 EVO chainsaw

machines are at work – the

latest EVO generation has

contributed to significant

results. Combining chain

speed decrease and the

resulting higher pull,

the productivity has

increased to 30%, and

the pick’s consumption has decreased to 40% compared to

old generation models.

1475 EVO CS represents Tesmec’s peak of excellence for

pipeline projects in the toughest excavating conditions; it

can dig up to 488 cm (16 ft) depth and up to 140 cm (55 in.)

width, making use of the engine with 630 hp. This 100 t

trencher is suitable for mid to large diameter pipelines.

Furthermore, all Tesmec trenchers can be equipped with

the TrenchIntel 3D GPS system, to record data and position

while trenching – realising an as-built map in real-time – and

with the new remote monitoring control (Re.M), to monitor

the machine’s parameters in order to avoid breakages and

stops. The newly released TrenchTronic 5.0 electronic control

system is designed to make trenchers easier to use, and less

dependent on operator skills.

The 1475EVO chainsaw depositing excavated material alongside

the trench.

The 1475EVO chainsaw machine at work in Kuwait.