
FAQs
Have a question about our products? Check below to see if we’ve answered it as a FAQ…
How do the trench shields get to site?
Trenchmate has a fleet of hiab and flat deck trucks to deliver product anywhere in New Zealand. All our truck drivers are fully licenced to use hiab cranes and are competent in loading and unloading product. We deliver trench shields made up and ready to go, so there’s minimal downtime on site.
Can you stack shields on top of each other to achieve a greater depth?
Yes, all Trenchmate trench shields / man hole boxes can be stacked on top of each other to reach 7.2m deep. The connection points are rated, which allows multiple shields/boxes to be lifted in or out of the ground at one time.
Can I adjust the struts myself once the shield is on site?
Yes. Each shield/box is delivered with a safe working procedure – this has a step-by-step process for you to follow if you wish to adjust the struts to a different width.
Are your trench shields able to be dragged through the trench?
Yes. Every one of Trenchmate’s trench shields have a cutting edge at the bottom and a cutting edge on the front face to make it easy to pull the trench shield through the trench.
Can your trench shields be pushed into the ground using an excavator bucket?
Yes, however Trenchmate recommends using our beater beam which is steel box section that attaches to the top of the trench shield and protects the aluminium from getting damaged.
What happens if a trench shield is damaged on site?
We take excellent care of our gear to ensure it is in good condition and to health & safety standards so customers can be certain it’s safe and up to the job. Each product is checked prior to leaving the yard to comply with certification. When a Trenchmate product is delivered to site, the truck driver takes photos when unloading and the customer signs to say that the product is in good condition. If a trench shield is damaged when picking up, the truck driver will take photos of damage and notify customer of damage. Trenchmate’s engineering department will assess damage and quote for repairs to be carried out to comply with certification.
Can we modify trench shields on-site to suit what we need to do?
No this is outside what the product is certified to do and can cause major damage to personnel and product.
Do Trenchmate supply lifting equipment?
Yes, Trenchmate have a range of lifting chains available for hire. Each shield comes with 4 rated shackles attached to the product.