FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS [FAQS]

The hardness of rock can vary greatly, and different types of rock will require different types of drilling equipment and techniques to drill through. Some of the hardest rocks that can be drilled include:

Granite: Granite is a type of igneous rock that is known for its high density and hardness. It is composed mainly of feldspar and quartz, which are both very hard minerals. Drilling through granite typically requires specialist drill bits and a great deal of time and effort.

Basalt: Basalt is a type of volcanic rock that is also known for its high density and hardness. It is composed mainly of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene and can be difficult to drill through.

Quartzite: Quartzite is a type of metamorphic rock that is composed mainly of quartz. It is extremely hard and durable, making it difficult to drill through.

Each of these types of rock and with all types of ground conditions they are found in varying forms of hardness the lower the hardness the better chance of drilling it you will have.

As a very general guide and with the right host machine you could expect to see:

• Using a RC auger in the range of ~10 to 80MPa
• Using a DR auger in the range of ~50 to 150MPa
• Using a TR auger in the range of ~50 to 200MPa
• Using a rotating pick Core Barrel in the range of ~50 to 250MPa
• For any rock over ~90Mpa you would typically need a 20t host machine to succeed

It's important to note that drilling through these rocks and other hard materials may require specialized equipment, and also require the use of fluids or coolants to reduce heat and wear on the drill bits.

Additionally, the drilling process may take a longer time and require more effort than drilling through softer materials.

These types of drilling tools are typically used when the rock being drilled is of high strength or hardness and are additional tools to assist in trying to penetrate the rock.

A tapered rock auger is a type of auger that is specifically designed for drilling through hard rock and other difficult ground conditions. They typically have a tapered design, meaning that the diameter of the auger gradually increases from the centre out until it reached full diameter assisting in creating wear spots in the rock material in an attempt to break or fractur the rock away. Tapered rock augers should be used in situations where the soil or ground is hard, rocky, or otherwise difficult to dig through. They are ideal for drilling through tough materials such as granite, limestone, and basalt, and are also well suited for drilling through mixed soil conditions that include rock or boulders. They are often used in combination with a Dedicated rock auger, whereby the operated alternates between the two tools to achieve penetration. Example: start with Dedicated rock (DR) if you experience refusal, swap out the DR for a Tapered Rock (TR) this should help penetrate the rock, should the TR then get refusal swap back to the DR and continue the process.

It's important to note that tapered rock augers are typically more expensive than standard augers and may also require more powerful equipment to operate. They also may not be appropriate for certain types of projects where the ground is mainly soil  or you require a flat base at the bottom of the hole. (you would use the DR to achieve the flatter base)

A core barrel is typically used on very hard rock where a DR or TR auger is getting refusal in theory it achieves penetrating by having less rock to drill away or break up, it cuts a ring around the rock leaving a core in the centre this requires less power and less down force to achieve the downside of this is the ability to break off the core and remove it from the hole. This application is very hard on the auger drive and can generate huge side loads if not done correctly, and wont work in all ground conditions.

Yes, if the auger is the A4TL, A6 or A8 series, you can. The Earth cutter (teeth and Pilot) can be removed and replaced with Tungsten Carbide Cutters (teeth and Pilot).

The tungsten carbide cutters come in two types: a TC version which is a flat tungsten carbide tile or the more aggressive MFT which is a Multifaceted tungsten carbide tile.

The MFT and TC Rock wearparts (teeth & Pilot) are designed to help an auger cut through harder, more difficult soils and materials, such as shale, “soft rock” and hardpan sub soils.

They are made utilising tungsten carbide tiles fitted to the tooth body. When fitting these wear parts to the cutting head it improves the augers’ ability to dig through tough materials.

Fitting rock teeth on an earth auger can increase its versatility and allow it to be used in different types of ground conditions, however, it's important to keep in mind that earth augers are typically not as heavy-duty as dedicated rock augers and may not be able to handle the same level of wear and tear that traditional rock augers can.

It's also important to note that when using rock teeth on an earth auger, make sure that the teeth are properly installed and securely fastened, and to regularly check and maintain the teeth to ensure they are in good condition. When drilling in harder ground or rock/rocky ground typically the wear will be extreme when compared to soil drilling.

Consult with the sales or spare parts team for available options and guidance to help you make the best decision.

The auger size needed is dependant on the post size being installed, and the soil conditions you will be working in.

For a standard wooden fence, you may only require a 150mm (6”) or 200mm (8”) diameter auger. These sizes are large enough to accommodate most standard fence posts and provide a stable base for the fence.

If you are installing a chain-link or steel fence, you may want to consider a larger diameter auger, such as a 250mm (10”) or 300mm (12”) diameter. These larger sizes will provide a more stable base for the heavier fence posts and will also make it easier to accommodate larger posts if necessary. Typically, a rural fence using post and rail will use a 300mm (12”) for the post and a 450 (18”) up to 600mm(24”) for the corner or Strainer post.

It's also important to consider the length of the auger, which can range from 900mm (36”) to 1.5m (60”) or more. The length of the auger will depend on the depth of the hole you need to dig and will also be influenced by the soil conditions and the type of fence you are installing.

It's important to consult the fence manufacturers for specifications before deciding. *Always refer to local engineering and building codes for regulations and guidance.

Additionally, consider the power of your equipment and the capacity of your equipment to handle the auger size you choose.

Digga specialises in manufacturing augers and other attachments for construction and agriculture equipment.

The Digga Auger range has been developed over many years of working directly with our customers along with advanced engineering processes to perfect and optimise our cutting systems to provide the best performance possible, our augers are industry leading for several reasons, such as:

Quality: Digga augers are made with high-quality materials and built to last. We also have strict ISO90001 quality control procedures in place to ensure that each auger meets our standards.

Innovation: Digga have patented features or designs that set their augers apart from those of their competitors. we also invest heavily in research and development to ensure that our products are constantly improving.

Design: Digga’s highly skilled and professional engineering team utilising advanced 3D modelling to ensure the tooth angle and positioning is in the ideal position and angle to give the best cut and penetration ability, and ensure optimum flight pitch to both hold the spoil on the flight for better extraction while getting that spoil to the top of the hole quickly to help avoid auger stall.

Support: At Digga we pride ourselves on our strong customer service and technical support team that can assist customers with any questions or issues they may have with their augers. We offer assistance with choosing the right drilling tool option for your needs.

Versatility: Digga has a wide range of standard augers available together with Bespoke (custom) option to suit different types of projects, jobs, and machinery, coupled with an extensive range of accessories available to expand the capabilities of the auger and auger drive.

Brand reputation: Digga has a strong reputation in the industry for producing high-quality, reliable augers that are known for getting the job done.

It's important to note that different augers are better suited for different tasks and that the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Consult with the sales team for available options and guidance to help you make the best decision.

Yes, we do, we offer many bespoke drilling solutions.

Consult with the sales team for available options and guidance to help you make the best decision.

The teeth could last 1 or 2 holes or last 100’s of holes, its all dependant on what material is being drilled. Tungsten Carbide teeth/pilots will always out last standard earth teeth/pilots.

The lifespan of an auger tooth depends on a variety of factors, including the type of material it is made from, the type of soil or rock it is used to drill through, and the frequency and intensity of use.

Carbide teeth are known to last longer than steel teeth, due to their high hardness and resistance to wear. A carbide tooth can last for several hundred hours of drilling, depending on the specific type of carbide and the conditions it is being used in.

Steel teeth are generally less durable than carbide teeth and typically wear out faster.

It's important to note that drilling through hard rock, clay or concrete will wear out the teeth faster than drilling through softer soils. Additionally, drilling frequently or for longer periods of time will also decrease the lifespan of the teeth.

Proper maintenance such as regular inspections and replacing worn teeth can also help prolong the lifespan of the auger.

Yes, we do, we offer many bespoke drilling solutions.

Consult with the sales team for available options and guidance to help you make the best decision.

There is a several factors that are at play when suiting up “The Biggest earth drill” consideration needs to be given to:

• Lift capacity of the host machine: should the weight of the drill exceed the SWL (safe Working Load) of the host machine then the drive should not be fitted.
• Ground clearance: Careful consideration needs to be given to insure there is ample ground clearance under the pickup of the host machine when both the drive and drilling tool or Screw Pile are fitted.
• Application Overview: When selecting the largest drive, it's essential to consider both the desired outcome and the specific job requirements. These factors will significantly influence the choice of the appropriate drill.

If you install the wrong planetary earth drill on your machine, several issues could arise, potentially affecting performance, safety, and the longevity of both the drive and the machine:

1. Incorrect Torque and Speed: The earth drill may not be suited to the hydraulic flow and pressure of your machine. This can result in too much or too little torque, either leading to inefficient digging or overstressing the drive components leading to frailer.
2. Reduced Efficiency: The wrong drill might not be optimized for your specific drilling conditions, causing slower digging and increased wear on the auger teeth and pilot, leading to more frequent maintenance.
3. Hydraulic System Strain: Using an incompatible drive could place excessive strain on your machine's hydraulic system, potentially causing overheating or damage to pumps, hoses, and other components.
4. Poor Performance: If theearth drill is mismatched, it may not provide the required torque or rotational speed for your ground conditions, leading to subpar hole performance, especially in difficult ground.
5. Increased Wear and Tear: An incorrect drive can accelerate wear on both the drill and the auger, leading to more frequent breakdowns or even failure, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair.
6. Safety Hazards: A mismatched drive may cause unexpected behaviour, such as uncontrolled movements or failure under load, which could create a safety risk to operators, bystanders and equipment.

For optimal performance and safety, it's crucial to match the earth drill to your machine's specifications and the ground conditions you are working in.

A 2-speed drill offers enhanced versatility and efficiency for drilling applications by providing two selectable speed ranges:

1. High Torque (Low Speed): This setting is ideal for drilling through hard, compacted ground, clay, or rock. It delivers maximum torque, allowing the auger to cut through tougher materials with greater force, though at a slower speed.
2. High Speed (Low Torque): This setting is suited for softer soils, such as sand or loam, where high torque isn't necessary. It allows for faster drilling, increasing productivity by completing holes more quickly in easier ground conditions.

Benefits of a 2-Speed Drive:

• Versatility: Allows you to switch between speed and torque depending on the ground conditions, making it suitable for a wide variety of drilling environments.
• Efficiency: Saves time and wear on equipment by using the appropriate speed and torque for each specific task.
• Enhanced Versatility and Performance: Engineered to handle both hard and soft soils, this design allows for the integration of a larger reduction gearbox, delivering increased torque without compromising speed. Enjoy the performance benefits of two earth drills in one, eliminating the need for equipment changes and significantly boosting overall job efficiency.

In short, a 2-speed drill offers greater diversity, control, and adaptability, ensuring optimal performance and productivity across different drilling conditions.

It is possible to get an earth drill that can be used with two different size machines, but it will depend on the specific earth drill and the machines you have. If your two machines are close in size, for example a 5t and 10t or 15t and 20t but the drill must be suited to the larger machine, it is not feasible should you have a 3t and 20t machine as the physical size of the drive for the 20t machine is far too large for the 3t machine and the performance output would be inadequate to perform normal drilling.

Some earth drills are designed to be used with a range of different machines and may come with adaptors or other attachments that allow them to be used with different sizes of equipment. However, it's important to check the specifications of the earth drill and the machines you must ensure that they are compatible.

Additionally, it's important to consider the power and torque of the machines, and the size and weight of the earth drill. A larger or heavier earth drill may require a more powerful machine to operate, and a smaller machine may not be able to handle the weight and torque of the earth drill.

It's important to consult with the manufacturer or a professional before deciding, and to check the compatibility and capacity of your machines with the earth drill you want to use.

The other option that is idea for this scenario of running one drive two machines is a two-speed drive (see 2- Speed high flow & 2-Speed STD flow).

In general, we would have to say NO - For the following reasons:

1. Without knowing the grade of rock, e.g. for sandstone there are 5 grades, 1 – being soft and weathered, classed as drillable, and 5 – being extremely hard and classed as un-drillable.
2. The physical downforce of your machine will not carry enough weight to functionally drill this diametre. hole in rock.

There are several differences between a PD5 & PD6, PD7

The main is the amount of torque outputted by each individual unit PD5 Max. Nominal Torque @ 240bar Pressure is 5000 Nm., PD6 – 5,500 Nm & PD7 – 6,000 nm.

With each increment in increase of torque you have an equal decrease in output shaft speed when inputting the same amount of flow (Lpm or Gpm).

Additional differences between the PD5 and the PD6 & PD7 is the gearset of a PD5 has a Series 2 Gearset where the PD6 & PD7 have a series 4. This difference is in the thickness of the gearsets in each. These differences are there to cope with the increasing weight of the parent machine and for the increase in torque capabilities.

Also, there is a marked difference in the bearings size of the PD6 & 7 over the PD5. The increase in size of the bearings in the PD6 & 7 is to cope with the increase in weight from the parent/host machine.

Depending on the torque output of the drive unit we would recommend a square or hexagonal shaft for all drives over 4,500 Nm. For drives under this torque rating a 65mm Rnd as standard relies on the auger pin to bare the rotational load of the drive unit. This pin is rated to 10Knm but with our safety factor we like to step up to Sq or hex for torques higher. By using sq. or hex we are supporting the rotational load of the drive on the four side of the square or the 6 sides of the hex.

The gearbox of earth drills sit in their own bath of oil. The gearbox is not lubricated by the machines hydraulic oil, as a result the oil needs regular changes similar to your car.

Service intervals are outlined in the operator’s manual provided with all Digga attachments. The recommended intervals depend on the intensity of use, ranging from occasional to extreme. For best practices, consult the manual to determine the appropriate maintenance schedule based on your specific usage.

Regular servicing is essential to maintain performance and extend the life of your equipment as well as your warranty.

Depending upon the earth drill model being used and its application with determine the type of oil to be used, but in all drive, we recommend using and “EP” (Extreme Pressure) oil this will ensure longevity of your gearbox. Typically, your drills will come from factory filled with:

• ISO EP320 Mineral Oil ... for PDD to PD50 including 2 Speed drives
• ISO EP320 Synthetic oil ... for SD, MD, UD, XD drives

Note : if unsure please contact the Digga Service department for guidance

You can't use the Digga HALO system on non-Digga earth drills because the HALO system is specifically designed and engineered to suit Digga earth drills.

Here are some key reasons:

• Compatibility: The HALO alignment system is built to integrate seamlessly with Digga drills, ensuring correct fitment and performance. Competitor earth drills may have different dimensions, or operational requirements that aren't compatible with the HALO system.
• Calibration: HALO uses 6 sensors to provide real-time feedback on the auger’s angle for precise drilling. These sensors are calibrated to work specifically with Digga’s drills and control systems.
• Warranty and Support: Digga products, including the HALO system, are covered under specific warranties when used with compatible Digga components. Installing HALO on a non-Digga drive will void warranties,

This would all depend on what your application requires, i.e. depth of trench, width of trench, expected ground conditions, and what are the hydraulic capabilities of your host machine.

Once our experienced staff have these details, we will be able to offer the various options to you.

The first noticeable difference is in the chain size. The Big Foot Trencher (BFT) uses a 1.654” Pitch Chain, whereas the Big Foot XD (BFT2) uses a 2” Pitch Chain. The 2” chain and teeth being larger and are more extreme heavy duty.

The BFT has a maximum chain/trench width of 200mm. The BFT2 has a maximum chain/trench width of 300mm. Given that the BFT2 has larger chain and width capabilities, the power/torque of the BFT2 is increased by 20% over the BFT.

Please refer to our product brochures to determine which model is best suited to your application and host machine.

Our BFT & BFT2 Trenchers have been designed to give you controlled depth options:

• Mini BFT - 450/600/750/900mm.
• BFT (900) - 600/750/900mm.
• BFT XD (900) – 450/600/750/900mm.
• BFT XD (1200) – 600/800/1000/1200mm.
• BFT XD (1500) – 750/1000/1250/1500mm.

The Hydrive and Hydrive XD depth ranges from 0 – 1200mm, all governed/guided by the operator’s experience.

Yes, quite simply by loosening off the chain then locating and removing the joiner pin/link. Roll off the chain complete and replace with your smaller or larger width chain as required. Bring the ends of the chain together and replace the joiner pin/link. Retention the chain to the recommended tension as per operator manual guidelines.

Yes, you could manually remove every earth tooth, nut, bolt and spacer of your earth chain and replace these with a complete set of Diggatac teeth, nuts, bolts and spacers to reconfigure to a Diggatac Chain. BUT, given the time and effort required to do this it is far more economically viable to have a second complete chain which can be removed and replaced in a fraction of the time.

Yes, all Digga Trenchers are manufactured in our company owned facilities, guaranteeing spare parts are readily accessible.

Bear in mind the trencher is not a chain saw, but it will cut through the odd tree root. It will also cut through water, power, phone and data cables, so always consult your local services locator before commencing any trenching work.

When mounted to a SSL or CTL the operator must always operate the trencher in a reverse direction. That is with the top of the chain moving away from the operator and the bottom of the chain coming back towards the operator as it cuts through the soil always while moving the host machine in a slow, controlled reverse direction.

Crumber Bars or Scraper Bars are designed to scrape the bottom of the trench behind the chain as the trencher moves/cuts through the soil leaving a smooth flat spoil free trench.       

In some cases, such as the laying of irrigation pipes, the installer may require a soft bed of loose soil for the pipe to lay on. This can be achieved by simply folding back the Crumber/Scraper Bar for this application.

NOTE: The danger bar that the Scraper/Crumber Bar is fixed to must NEVER be removed.

If you wish to mount a trencher on your tractor, telehandler or loader, etc., they MUST always have HYDROSTATIC transmission. There are no tractors, telehandlers or loaders with conventional mechanical gearboxes that can travel slow enough for the effective operation of a trencher attachment. In hard ground conditions you may find the need to be travelling at a rate as slow as 0.075 Klm/h.

What is a hydrostatic drive?
A hydrostatic drive is a type of transmission system that typically uses fluid power, specifically hydraulic fluid, to transfer energy from a pump to a motor, enabling movement in machinery. It is commonly used in equipment like excavators, tractors, skid steers, and Mini loaders, due to its smooth and precise control over speed and torque. a hydrostatic drive is a fluid-based transmission system that excels in providing precise control, durability, and high torque.

Mostly all Digga trenchers have a Digga Planetary Gearbox fitted and do require the periodic oil change as most mechanical devises do. Consult your operator manual for direction.

Besides gearbox maintenance it is best practise to periodically check the tension of your chain and of the chain tooth wear. The teeth of the trencher are a wearpart and as such may require replacement. Your operator manual has a guide on the loss of efficiency of the chain’s performance relevant to the tooth wear.

No, the trencher chain will require the operator to physically tension the chain as required. All tooling for this is supplied on the trencher and only takes a few minutes to complete. Your operator manual has a guide on best practise for correct chain tension.

A screw-pile comprises a circular hollow section of steel shaft with one or more helical plates welded near to the end of it. The size of the shaft (diameter, wall thickness and length), combined with the size and placement of the helical plate are Engineer designed to take full advantage of the available soil capacity. Screw-piles are screwed into the ground like a self-tapping screw using rotary hydraulics, namely DIGGA SCREW/ANCHOR DRIVES, attached to earthmoving equipment to a specified torque capacity and a depth as directed by a certified foundation engineer.

Digga torque head unit's output torque is used to screw the pile into the ground. As the anchor reaches the desired compression torque or depth the operator stops. At this point the pile (or anchor) is under load.

When the operator stops, the load is trying to spin the pile backwards. While the anchor is only tensioned to say a ¼ or ½ a turn when it releases it does so in under 1/10 of a second. This motion can have dire effects on both the gearbox and the motor as it sends reverse energy back up into the drive unit. This motion effectively turns the reduction gearbox into a multiplier, essentially turning the hydraulic motor into a pump.

Swoosh Control (ECV) was designed to relieve the kick/flick back motion of the pile on the drive head. Basically, it prevents a pile of kickback/flick back by controlling the release of oil to the low-pressure side of the motor. The added benefit of the design is that it does not reduce the power available to the drive when the drive is installing the anchor. Its name came about as when the valve is working you can hear the controlled release of oil. A very gentle Swooossshhhhh... sound is heard.

Swoosh (ECV) is required for all drives used installing screw piles from PD4HF – PD50 to maintain a full gearbox and motor warranty (3yr Gearbox & 2yr Motor).

Should you be installing screw piles with a torque requirement up to 16,000Nm (12,000Ft/Lbs.) and do not have an ECV fitted you will have limited warranty (2yr Gearbox & 1yr Motor).

Using drive units without ECV for installing screw piles with an installation torque requirement of greater than 16,000Nm (12,000Ft/Lbs.) will have NO WARRANTY for Gearbox or Motor.

This will be determined by the maximum torque requirement of the specific screw piles that will be installed at the site in question. This in turn will be specified by the foundation engineer who has designed and designated the exact dimension, installation and torque requirement for this job site.

This will be determined by the maximum torque requirement of the specific screw piles that will be installed at the site in question. This in turn will be specified by the foundation engineer who has designed and designated the exact dimension, installation and torque requirement for this job site.

Dependent on the available flow and pressure available from the parent machine there will be a variation in the RPM speed of a smaller drive to a larger drive.

e.g. With the same parent machine with flow 200Lpm fitted with a SD45 would have 17 RPM at max torque, as opposed to same machine with same flow fitted with a SD95 would have 8 RPM at max torque. So, a definite flow decrease the larger the drive.

It is worth noting, speed (RPM) is dependent on Flow (LPM or GPM). Power (Nm or Ft/Lbs.) depends on pressure (BAR or PSI).

Yes, all drives are capable of use in screw piling and as an auger drive. Larger drives with higher torques will be limited by the RPM that will satisfy your drilling requirements.

Yes, but the size of the screw pile would be limited by the amount of torque required so that the machine is not compromised and is not at risk of boom failure or machine tipping. Best to confirm with the parent machine supplier of the safety factors for the machine in question.

You can contact your local Digga dealer, they are well equipped to handle your enquiry. Alternatively you can log onto our spare parts website and search exploded view diagrams to locate your part - spares.diggaeurope.com.