Method and apparatus for excavating a trench

摘要

An excavator and a method of use of the excavator is provided for use in excavating a trench having a pipeline extending along one side thereof in a longitudinal direction of the trench. The excavator is positioned adjacent the pipeline opposite the trench and includes a hydraulic arm arranged to extend over the pipeline and into the trench. A hydraulic clam bucket is mounted on a free end of the hydraulic arm for excavating earth from the trench. The arm includes articulation joints about both horizontal and vertical axes such that the base of the excavator adjacent the pipeline may remain fixed in relation to the pipeline as the bucket is guided within the trench.