Sometimes You Need to Dig Deep

Excavac • October 25, 2019

Cost effective, minimal damage hydro excavation

Excavac trucks

While big business, mining companies and local councils are well versed in purposes of vacuum trucks, builders, developers and even members of the general public may not know of their potential value. 


While ‘vac’ trucks have traditionally been employed to take on tasks such as emptying septic tanks and cleaning sewer pipes for proper preventive maintenance, one of the latest applications of vacuum trucks is hydro excavation. 


Putting things simply, this involves high-pressure water jets doing the work of heavy machinery by excavating to subterranean levels before an industrial vacuum hose pulls the debris into the tanks.


The technology can (and has been used) in emergency situations, especially when spillage issues are involved.

Industrial vacuum trucks and trailer-mounted units are categorised into a range of debris tank-equipped machines. 


Combination sewer cleaning, hydro excavation, and industrial vacuum units are all considered to be industrial vacuum trucks and are characterised by high-pressure water and powerful vacuum systems that are designed to take on the toughest jobs.


A growing trend throughout Australia is the use of industrial vacuum trucks on the construction site, where excavation trucks are ideal for precise excavation and underground utility daylighting. 


Performing hydro excavation with these units – is more precise and cost-effective and does not cause damage to underground utilities, a common occurrence with traditional excavation equipment.


Other uses of this type of industrial vacuum truck in construction includes soil trenching, removal of debris, cold weather digging and piling hole excavation.


Sucker truck operating at Sydney Opera House
April 4, 2025
Beyond non-destructive digging, vacuum trucks are also widely used for sewer and storm drain cleaning, septic tank emptying, and catch basin maintenance. Their versatility makes them indispensable for various site management tasks.
By Guy Rowlison November 28, 2024
Environmental degradation is a growing concern, and improper waste disposal doesn't just harm ecosystems — it also poses significant risks to workers and the public. When waste is not managed correctly, the concentration and total mass of discharged substances can create serious health and safety hazards. Beyond the environmental and personal impacts, operators risk substantial fines for non-compliance with waste disposal regulations. High-performance, non-destructive equipment like hydro vacuum trucks makes pit cleaning quick, efficient, and thorough. Hydro vacuum cleaning of electrical and communication pits is widely regarded as the most practical method for ensuring these areas are properly maintained. This innovative technique is incredibly versatile and offers solutions for a wide range of applications, including: Removing waste Cleaning sewer systems, stormwater drains, and pipes Electrical and communication pit cleaning Liquid waste removal Tank and vessel cleaning Emergency spill response Scheduled maintenance shutdowns Hydro vacuum cleaning also plays a critical role in the petroleum industry, where it is used to clean storage tanks, manage spills, and remove drilling mud, cuttings, cement, and brine water from production tanks. In fact, these services have become virtually mandatory in modern industrial and commercial operations due to their efficiency and safety. Whether dealing with public facilities, shopping centres, large industrial sites, rental properties, or renovation projects, programmed maintenance involving hydro vacuum cleaning can prevent minor waste issues from becoming major, complex problems. By addressing waste removal and cleaning needs proactively, businesses can ensure compliance, improve safety, and minimise environmental impact. Beyond its practical benefits, hydro vacuum cleaning is also cost-effective. It reduces downtime, limits labour-intensive processes, and ensures thorough results. These features make it an attractive choice for industries aiming to improve their environmental footprint without compromising operational efficiency. Sustainability starts with rethinking how we treat waste. Employing advanced cleaning techniques like hydro vacuum cleaning helps preserve our environment by delivering efficient, safe, and technologically responsible solutions for water, waste, and energy management. For more information about how vacuum and pit clearing trucks can support your operations, contact us today by phone or email. Let’s work together for a cleaner, safer future.
Vacuum truck for non-destructive digging tasks
August 26, 2024
Excavac has been a leader in non-destructive excavation and vacuum truck services, offering a modern fleet that ensures safe, efficient, and cost-effective management of both wet and dry waste. Call today for more information.
More Posts