Category: Media reports

KEMROC EK 150 Chain Cutters in Trenching Project in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Caterpillar 330 | Cutting limestone in Riyadh.

In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s growing capital, a major sewage pipeline project required highly accurate trenching through dense limestone with strict geometric specifications, trench widths of 70–80 cm and depths reaching up to 6 meters.

Conventional trenching tools and hydraulic attachments available in the local market proved incapability of meeting both the dimensional and productivity targets within acceptable cost parameters. The contractor faced multiple challenges: Excessive tool wear and downtime, Oversized trench profiles requiring costly backfill, High fuel consumption and low productivity per cubic meter, Complicated logistics due to removal and transport of large, excavated rocks.

To overcome these limitations, the KEMROC team organized two intensive demonstration days in Saudi Arabia. The outstanding results convinced the contractor to purchase 3 KEMROC EK chain cutter attachments, marking a major milestone for efficient trenching operations in the region. Also, KEMROC’s excavator trenching attachment with integrated chain drive system ensured uniform cutting and minimal vibration, essential for maintaining stability in sensitive subsurface environments. KEMROC’s EK series chain cutter was the optimal solution, combining cutting-edge German engineering with field-proven productivity and durability.

Performance & Productivity

KEMROC EK 150 chain cutters mounted on a Caterpillar 330 excavator, delivered unmatched trenching precision and consistency. The KEMROC EK 150 trench cutter’s centrally positioned chain drive between the two drums ensured a flat trench bottom, eliminating the need for secondary trimming and enabling perfect installation of sewage pipelines. During operation, the KEMROC chain cutter achieved:

• Consistent trench width (70–80 cm) with depths up to 6 m.
• Enabled rock cutting trenching with up to 40% faster cycle times compared to conventional drum cutters or hoe rams.
• Significant fuel savings through steady cutting torque and reduced excavator repositioning.
• Reduction in overall trenching costs per cubic meter.
• Reusability of 80–90% of the excavated limestone as backfill material, minimizing disposal and transport costs.

The EK 150 excavator chain cutter achieved remarkable trenching efficiency. With an average cutting rate exceeding expectation, operators reported smooth performance even in high-strength rock formations. Using round attack picks, the chain cutter required minimal maintenance, with minimal pick wear (average of just 3 replacements per 100 m³), confirming KEMROC’s reputation for durability and low-maintenance design.

Technical Highlights of KEMROC Chain Cutters:

The KEMROC trench cutter belongs to KEMROC’s globally recognized EK chain cutter series, the world’s first ever – chain trench cutters designed for precise, low-vibration excavation of narrow trenches.

Key Technical Advantages:

• Chain-driven system connecting both cutter drums for uniform trenching and a perfectly flat trench base.
• Hydraulic side-shift option for optimized positioning along walls or obstacles.
• Exceptional cutting depth and stability: ideal for pipelines, cables, and foundation trenches.
• Reduced vibration ensuring safety near sensitive structures.
• Low pick consumption due to optimized tool arrangement and torque control.
• Clean trench geometry that eliminates overbreak and minimizes backfilling volume.
• Compatibility with standard excavators (2 – 70 t class) without complex modifications.

Together with the hydraulic power of the Caterpillar excavator CAT 330, the KEMROC chain cutter EK 150 achieved stable cutting torque and maximum penetration rate through high-strength limestone, ensuring high daily outputs under the toughest geological conditions.

Customer Feedback

The Saudi contractor highlighted two decisive factors: productivity and precision.

“None of the other attachments and trenching machines could achieve our required 70–80 cm trench width and 6 m depth at this productivity level. The KEMROC chain cutter EK 150 worked continuously, producing clean cuts, reusable material, and lower overall project costs.”

Following the demo, the contractor confirmed the purchase of 3 KEMROC EK 150 chain cutters, citing: Precision trench geometry, lower fuel and tool wear, significant savings on material handling and backfill logistics, reliable on-site support, and guidance from KEMROC’s technical team.

Conclusion

The Riyadh sewage project set a new performance benchmark for rock trenching in the Middle East. By integrating German-engineered precision and robust field performance, the KEMROC EK 150 chain cutters proved to be the only attachment capable of meeting the project’s strict trenching requirements, delivering efficiency, accuracy, and cost savings in one solution.

As KEMROC continues expanding across the region, KEMROC chain cutters remain the trusted choice for contractors demanding precision trenching, lower operating costs, and sustainable excavation performance.

KEMROC EK 160_800 Chain Cutter in Urban Trenching Project.
Mounted on Kobelco SK380 | Cutting Limestone in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

In Dubai’s demanding construction landscape, precision and efficiency are non-negotiable. For a recent pipeline trenching project, contractors turned to the KEMROC EK 160_800 chain cutter, mounted on a Kobelco SK380 excavator, to deliver exact and efficient trenching through limestone rock with a compressive strength of 50–60 MPa. The result: a perfectly profiled trench: 3 m deep, 1.5 m wide, and 35 m long, completed with unmatched accuracy and speed.

The EK 160_800 chain cutter is one of KEMROC’s most advanced excavator trenching attachments, designed specifically for rock trenching, pipeline installation, and foundation excavation. Its dual cutting drums connected by a central chain ensure a clean, uniform trench bottom, eliminating the “ridge” typically left by twin-drum cutters. This makes it ideal for utility and pipeline projects where exact trench geometry is critical for pipe bedding and backfilling efficiency.

High Performance in Tough Conditions

Mounted on the Kobelco SK380, the chain cutter EK 160_800 showcased exceptional cutting force and stability, powered by precision German engineering. The limestone’s strength (50–60 MPa) posed a significant challenge, but the 17 mm pick-equipped chain cutter maintained consistent penetration and cutting efficiency throughout the project. KEMROC attachment’s optimized torque and hydraulic power transfer delivered continuous production, minimizing idle time and reducing the need for multiple passes.

The contractor reported a notable improvement in trenching productivity, citing smoother operation, less wear and tear, and lower maintenance costs compared to traditional trenchers or hydraulic breakers. With KEMROC’s solution, the team avoided over-excavation, achieving the required trench dimensions precisely, a crucial advantage for urban and high-value infrastructure sites like Dubai.

Why KEMROC Was the Smart Choice for Urban Trenching Project?

The decision to select KEMROC over other brands came down to 5 main factors: higher productivity, lower maintenance, low vibration, low sound, and precision cutting. KEMROC EK 160_800 chain cutter not only reduced downtime but also ensured predictable results, enabling efficient pipe installation, and reducing backfilling material costs. Contractors highlighted the advantage of controlled trench profiles, which simplified subsequent phases of the project.

In urban areas, especially near residential villas, low vibration and minimal noise were crucial. KEMROC’s cutting technology allowed the contractor to work efficiently without disturbing nearby residents, a major advantage in densely populated neighborhoods. The reduced sound levels and low vibration performance ensured compliance with environmental standards and created a safer, quieter working environment for both operators and the community.

Furthermore, the robust design and long-lasting picks contributed to lower tool consumption, offering excellent cost-per-meter performance. With KEMROC’s proven advantages, choosing KEMROC chain cutter for this pipeline and Urban trenching project was a smart and strategic decision by the contractor.

Conclusion: Smarter Urban Trenching for Modern Infrastructure

This project stands as a testament to the efficiency and precision that define KEMROC’s range of chain cutter trenching attachments. The EK 160_800 chain cutter, paired with a Kobelco SK380 excavator, proved to be the ultimate combination for smart rock cutting trenching in medium-hard limestone, delivering speed, accuracy, and operational reliability.

With KEMROC chain cutters, contractors gain more than an attachment, they gain a trenching technology German-engineered for performance and savings. As Dubai continues to expand its underground infrastructure, solutions like the KEMROC chain cutters will remain essential excavator attachment for achieving consistent, high-quality results in excavator trenching and pipeline construction. On top, KEMROC chain cutter’s low sound and low vibration made it the optimum choice for sensitive underground conditions, minimizing disturbance to nearby utilities, structures, and nearby community – a frequent requirement in urban Dubai projects.

KEMROC EK Chain Cutter in Large-Scale Trenching Project in the U.S
Komatsu 450 | Cutting Sandstone in Beaver, West Virginia.

In Beaver, West Virginia, a trenching project showcased the power and efficiency of the KEMROC EK 160 Chain Cutter, mounted on a Komatsu 450 excavator. Tasked with cutting through sandstone with a compressive strength of approximately 10,153 psi, this specialized excavator chain cutter trenching attachment is delivering outstanding performance, setting new benchmarks for rock trenching in the U.S.

Project Overview

The contractor rented the EK 160 for several months to support utility trenching works across varying depths and widths, averaging 40 inches wide. Traditional trenching equipment such as hoe rams or blasting would have slowed progress, created oversized rubble, and raised environmental concerns. Instead, KEMROC EK Chain Cutter, the excavator trenching attachment offered a precise, continuous, and cost-effective solution for the job site with low vibration and low sound ensuring high safety and supporting quiet environment for the neighborhood.  

Performance and Productivity

The KEMROC EK 160 trench cutter proved to be the right choice for sandstone conditions. Daily productivity was impressive, with operators cutting through rock efficiently while maintaining consistent trench profiles. Productivity metrics reached new heights, positioning KEMROC chain cutter attachment as a superior alternative to conventional trenching equipment.

On average, the KEMROC EK 160 consumed up to 20 round attack picks per day per 100 cubic meters, a figure considered economical given the abrasive sandstone. The ability to produce reusable backfill material rather than oversized rubble also reduced hauling requirements and cut project costs significantly.

Advantages of KEMROC EK 160 in Excavator Trenching

• Precision in Rock Trenching: The excavator chain cutter trenching attachment created uniform trench walls, minimizing overbreak and ensuring cleaner cuts.
• Higher Productivity: The EK 160 outperformed other trenching methods by maintaining consistent output and completing work faster.
• Cost Savings: Reduced pick consumption, reusable excavated material, and minimized need for backfill lowered operating costs.
• Sustainability: By eliminating blasting and reducing noise and vibrations, the KEMROC EK Chain Cutter aligned with environmentally friendly trenching methods.

Why the Contractor Chose KEMROC?

The contractor chose the KEMROC EK chain cutter over competing brands because of its proven record of higher productivity in hard rock conditions. The machine’s robust design, German engineering excellence, and ability to integrate seamlessly with the Komatsu 450 excavator made it the smart and clear choice for this trenching project.

The KEMROC EK 160 stand outs by delivering unmatched energy efficiency, using up to 40% less energy than conventional drum cutters while reducing wear on the excavator’s swing gear. They excel in precision trenching, producing narrow, straight profiles in a single pass with minimal vibration, avoiding over-excavation, material waste, and costly transport. Also, the fine-grained material generated is reusable for immediate backfilling, eliminating the need for imported fill and driving substantial cost savings.

In urban and sensitive environments, operators benefit from the low noise and low vibration performance, ensuring both safety and community satisfaction. Engineered for versatility, KEMROC EK chain cutters operate underwater up to 100 ft without modifications and adapt seamlessly to diverse trenching widths. Most importantly, they deliver 2 to 4 times the linear productivity of hoe rams, enabling contractors to achieve more per day with reduced downtime. For projects demanding efficiency, sustainability, and profitability, from pipeline trenching to utility crossings, the KEMROC EK chain cutter is more than an excavator attachment; it’s the smart trenching solution redefining productivity in rock excavation.

A Testimonial by Pipe Foreman in the Job Site

According to the Pipe Foreman – Frank Neubert, the introduction of the KEMROC chain cutter changed everything. “You no longer need to trench 30 feet wide to bench down,” he said. “We’re removing rock efficiently, cutting twice as much material compared to a hydraulic hammer.” KEMROC attachment’s ability to deliver clean, vertical trench walls eliminated the need for trench boxes and reduced rework, resulting in a faster, more precise workflow.

Beyond productivity, the KEMROC chain cutter proved its value in cost savings and environmental efficiency. On a recent section, a team that once spent 11 days hammering through 35 feet of casing completed a similar stretch in just 1 day using KEMROC. The milled material was reused directly for backfilling, cutting transport costs, and minimizing disruption to nearby communities. “We keep the road open, reduce noise, and lower dust levels,” Neubert noted. “The difference is night and day, the community around the job site are happier, and our work is cleaner, quieter and safer.”

Neubert also praised KEMROC’s customer support and machine reliability. “When we needed a new chain, KEMROC team was on site by 7:00 a.m. to replace it. They even provided a KRC Bullhead Cutter while we waited,” he said. “It’s easy to operate, anyone could learn it quickly. We’ve still got a lot of rock to cut, and I can definitely see more KEMROC cutters in our future.” From precision trenching to reduced downtime, Neubert elaborated how KEMROC is positioned as the go-to smart solution for contractors demanding speed, efficiency, and performance in tough ground conditions and in urban areas.

Conclusion

The KEMROC EK 160 Chain Cutter demonstrated exceptional efficiency in excavator trenching and rock cutting trenching applications. Its role in Beaver, WV, highlighted how chain cutter trenching attachments can transform trench excavation projects by combining speed, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. As infrastructure demands in the United States grow, contractors are increasingly turning to advanced solutions like KEMROC’s excavator chain cutter trench technology to achieve more with less time, less waste, and less cost.

For contractors looking to gain a competitive edge in pipeline trenching, micro trenching, utility crossings, excavation, and rock cutting, KEMROC is the ultimate smart solution. Meet KEMROC expert team at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 – Indoor/West Hall, stand number W41250 to choose the smart KEMROC solution for your construction project.

KEMROC KRX Power Tools with Attachment for Concrete Milling.
KRX 110 Mounted on Caterpillar 336 | Milling Concrete in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

In the heart of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, a contractor faced a demanding foundation project requiring efficient and precise pile cutting. The chosen solution was the KEMROC KRX 110 power tool with a pile cutting attachment, mounted on a Caterpillar CAT 336 excavator. This high-performance setup proved to be the key to managing large diameter reinforced concrete piles in one of the region’s growing infrastructure hubs.

The conditions consisted of reinforced concrete piles with compressive strength of 60 MPa, making traditional methods slow, costly, and labor-intensive. With pile diameters of 500 to 700 mm and pile head depths of 1,500 mm, the project required reliable and smart technology to guarantee both speed and accuracy. The contractors tested the KEMROC KRX pile cutting attachment and immediately experienced its outstanding productivity. From the very first demonstration, KEMROC seamlessly took over the site, cutting pile after pile with impressive efficiency, achieving a consistent production rate of 3 to 4 piles per hour. This remarkable performance highlighted the KEMROC KRX system as a truly smart and reliable solution for pile cutting applications.

Performance & Productivity

The KEMROC KRX 110 with concrete pile cutter demonstrated its capability by delivering production of 3 to 4 piles per hour, a remarkable improvement compared to conventional pile cropping methods. This efficiency directly translated into significant time and cost savings for the contractor.

The pile head cutting machine was equipped with 17 mm round attack picks, optimized for reinforced concrete. Pick consumption proved highly efficient: only 60 picks were required for 400 piles, showcasing the durability and low wear of the system. This reduced downtime and spare parts costs, ensuring consistent productivity throughout the project.

Why KEMROC KRX Power Tools with Attachment for Milling?

The contractor selected the KEMROC KRX pile cropping attachment for excavators due to its superior productivity, precision, and reliability. Unlike traditional hydraulic breakers or manual pile removal techniques, the KEMROC KRX 110 Power Tool provided a controlled pile head removal machine that minimized vibration, prevented cracking below the cut, and ensured structural integrity of the remaining pile.

In comparison with other pile head cutting machines, KEMROC stood out with:

• Higher productivity (up to 3–4 piles/hour).
• Consistent precision with exact pile head removal.
• Reduced wear and operating costs due to durable picks.
• Safer operations with lower vibration levels and better operator control

Advantages for Foundation Projects

By using the KEMROC KRX 110 pile head cutter, the contractor was able to:

• Perform pile cropping with exact control, avoiding unnecessary damage.
• Reuse the trimmed piles effectively in the concrete foundation pile cutting process.
• Improve overall workflow on-site with a specialized pile cutting attachment designed for excavators.
• Enhance project efficiency with a pile head removal machine that exceeded expectations in both speed and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion

The success of this project in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – demonstrates why contractors across the globe are adopting KEMROC KRX pile cutting attachments as the smarter alternative to traditional methods. The KEMROC KRX 110 Power Tool concrete pile cutter not only boosted productivity but also delivered precision and reliability, making it the go-to pile cropping attachment in modern foundation construction.

KEMROC once again proved that when it comes to pile cutting, pile head removal, and foundation preparation, it delivers unmatched performance, helping contractors save time, reduce costs, and achieve results with confidence.

KEMROC EK 110 Chain Cutter in Utility Project in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Caterpillar 320D | Cutting Siltstone in Dumat Al-Jandal.

In Dumat al-Jandal, a major trenching project for a utility installation required precision, efficiency, and a solution that could tackle the region’s challenging siltstone rock. To meet these demands, a KEMROC EK 110 chain cutter attachment was rented and mounted on a Caterpillar 320D excavator, transforming the machine into a high-performance excavator trenching attachment.

This project required excavating a total trench length of 95 km, a true test of productivity and precision. Using the KEMROC chain cutter, the contractor achieved an impressive output of 25,000 mm of trench length per hour, with a consistent width of 1,200 mm and a depth of 5 m. Even through siltstone with a compressive strength of approximately 20 MPa (2,901 psi), the EK chain cutter delivered outstanding performance, combining speed, accuracy, and reliability.

With KEMROC chain cutters, the contractor delivered clean, narrow trench profiles suitable for pipeline installation without over-excavation and without additional costs for backfilling.

Application & Performance

The EK 110 chain cutter proved to be the ideal chain cutter attachment for this project, delivering unmatched productivity and precision. The excavator chain cutter trench technology cut a consistent 1.2-meter trench with minimal overbreak, ensuring smooth, vertical trench walls that were ready for pipeline installation.

With an extremely low picks consumption rate, just one round attack pick per 100 m³, the KEMROC EK 110 offered outstanding cost efficiency. Its continuous cutting action enabled the contractor to complete the entire trenching scope within two months, staying on schedule and avoiding delays that would have occurred with traditional rock trenching equipment such as hydraulic hammers.

Advantages of Using KEMROC Chain Cutters:

• Higher Productivity: The EK chain cutter delivered 2–4× more productivity compared to rock breakers and other traditional solutions, removing material efficiently and enabling more linear meters of trenching per day.
• Precise Trenching: The narrow, controlled cut ensured a perfect trench profile, reducing backfill requirements and saving material costs.
• Reusable Output: The milled material produced by the KEMROC chain cutters was fine enough to be reused immediately as backfill, eliminating the need to import new material.
• Reduced Vibration & Noise: The KEMROC chain cutters minimized vibration, protecting nearby infrastructure, and ensuring a safer worksite environment.
• Energy Efficiency: By eliminating the swing motion required by drum cutters, the KEMROC EK 110 preserved the excavator’s swing gear and reduced energy consumption by up to 40%.

Project Impact

The use of the KEMROC EK 110 chain cutter – excavator trenching attachment not only optimized the rock cutting trenching process but also helped the contractor control project costs, maintain safety, and deliver on time. The ability to achieve a uniform trench at exactly 1.2 m width and 5 m depth without rework was critical in ensuring quality standards.

This project showcases why KEMROC chain cutter trenching attachments are becoming the preferred solution for contractors in Saudi Arabia. The KEMROC EK 110 turned a challenging trenching job into a smooth, productive operation, reinforcing KEMROC’s reputation as a global leader in trenching equipment for excavators and rock trenching machines.

KEMROC KDS Diamond Saw Powers Precision Cutting in Italy
Hyundai HX85A | Cutting Concrete in Historic City Center

In the historic city of Bologna, Italy, a major infrastructure project required cutting through 60 MPa reinforced concrete in the heart of the city. Traditional demolition tools like hydraulic hammers were not an option due to strict vibration and noise restrictions. The contractor turned to KEMROC’s KDS 30 Diamond Saw Cutter Wheel, mounted on a 9-ton Hyundai HX85A excavator, to deliver the precision, safety, and efficiency demanded by this sensitive urban job site.

Project Scope and Challenges

The project involved cutting concrete with compressive strength of 60 MPa across several kilometers of urban trenching. With requirements for vertical cuts reaching 350 mm in depth, precision and efficiency were critical. Unlike hammers or breakers that create excessive vibration, dust, and oversized rubble, the KEMROC Excavator Diamond Saw Attachment provided clean, controlled cutting with low vibration and sound that complied with city regulations while maintaining high productivity.

Advanced Cutting Technology

The diamond cutter wheel for excavators used on this project was equipped with specialized blades designed for concrete. With minimal blade wear over months of operation, the system proved durable and cost-effective. The use of water cooling on-site further reduced dust, improved operator safety, and ensured consistent cutting performance.

Productivity and Cost Savings

The KDS 30 Excavator Rock Saw not only complied with urban regulations but also enabled the contractor to reuse the fine material produced. This eliminated the cost of importing extra backfill and reduced transport

requirements. With up to 40% lower energy consumption compared to traditional rock cutting tools, the KEMROC KDS Diamond Saw set a benchmark for sustainable construction technology.

Voices from the Jobsite

Mr. Giovanni Iannarone (Hyundai dealer, G&G Macchine): “When we introduced the Hyundai HX85A combined with the KEMROC KDS 30, contractor immediately recognized the advantage. It’s a compact and powerful solution, perfectly suited for urban construction sites where precision and compliance with regulations are critical.”

Mr. Luppi (Owner, Escavazioni Luppi & C.): “For us, the real breakthrough was cutting concrete in the city center without disturbing the neighborhood. The KEMROC KDS 30 allowed us to finish faster, with precision, and to reuse the material on site. It’s a smart investment that pays back in productivity and client satisfaction.”

Why Choose KEMROC KDS Diamond Saw Technology?

The success of the Bologna project highlights several advantages of the Excavator Diamond Saw Attachment over conventional rock cutting tools:

• Precision: Narrow, accurate vertical cuts without over-cutting
  Safety: Low vibration cutting protected nearby structures in a sensitive urban environment.
• Durability: Minimal blade consumption over kilometers of cutting.
• Sustainability: Reduced dust, noise, and energy usage.
• Cost Efficiency: 40% lower energy consumption and faster project timelines

The KDS 30 Diamond Rock Saw demonstrates why contractors across Europe are choosing KEMROC for projects where precision, safety, and efficiency cannot be compromised. With its ability to handle reinforced concrete, natural stone, and asphalt, the Diamond and Carbide Rock Wheel Saw has proven itself as a versatile, high-performance tool for rock cutting projects considering low vibration and sound in urban areas.

When it comes to trenching projects and excavation, contractors across the United States always aim higher, to deliver faster results, reduced costs, and improved efficiency. Traditional rock-breaking methods often fall short, slowing down projects, creating uneven trench profiles, and driving up energy and backfill costs. That’s where KEMROC cutting attachments set a new benchmark.

At KEMROC, we proudly say “WE WILL ROCK YOU” because our technology consistently outperforms conventional equipment. For your next trenching project, here’s why KEMROC is the smart choice:

Why Choose KEMROC for Trenching Projects?

2x to 4x More Productive than Rock Breakers: Contractors save valuable project time by completing weeks of work in just days. Instead of chipping away with hydraulic breakers, KEMROC’s drum cutters and chain cutters mill through rock with unmatched precision and speed.

Precise Trenching Dimensions, Starting from Just 3 Inches: Whether you’re working on narrow utility trenches or large-scale pipeline construction, KEMROC ensures accuracy down to the inch. This precision translates to cleaner sidewalls, reduced over-excavation, and cost savings on backfill.

Reuse the Excavated Material for Backfilling: Why pay for additional backfill when you already have it on-site? The fine material produced by KEMROC attachments can be reused immediately for trench backfilling, eliminating extra hauling and disposal costs.

Up to 40% Less Energy Consumption: Engineered for efficiency, KEMROC attachments reduce fuel consumption and lower wear on your excavator, making every trenching project more sustainable and profitable.

Underwater Capability up to 100 Feet – No Modifications Required: From subsea trenching projects for cables and pipelines to dam maintenance and harbor dredging, the same attachment works seamlessly above and below water.

Safe and Fast Utility Crossings & Bell Hole Excavation: KEMROC attachments deliver controlled trenching even in sensitive areas, ensuring faster utility crossings with reduced vibration, less disruption, and higher safety standards.

Proven by U.S. Contractors

“KEMROC attachments have performed exceptionally well for us, allowing us to save approximately $100,000 on this project.” This testimonial from Will Hurst – Business Owner, reflects the real-world ROI that KEMROC brings to U.S. projects. As a business owner, cost control and efficiency aren’t just goals, they are essential to profitability. KEMROC has proven its value by minimizing waste, reducing material handling expenses, and enhancing overall operations. Using KEMROC means fewer delays, lower resource usage, and faster turnaround. Whether you’re managing tight budgets or large-scale infrastructure work, KEMROC’s smart excavation tools are built to deliver both immediate savings and long-term reliability.

Mike McClain highlights both efficiency and precision: “By using the KEMROC attachment, we grind and reuse around 96–97% of excavated material back into the trench. The clean, straight trench walls often eliminate the need for shoring.” In heavy trenching projects and excavation work, especially with hard rock, the ability to reuse material is a game-changer. It cuts backfill costs and eases logistics. Plus, cleaner profiles often mean enhanced safety and faster project progression. A Superintendent – McClain’s words underscore how KEMROC blends productivity with environmental and operational excellence, an ideal solution for trenching, pipeline construction, and utility excavation in the U.S.

Stephan Roberson’s testimonial centers on productivity and reusability: “With hydraulic breakers you get uneven chunks. Grinding with KEMROC, we actually reuse the rock elsewhere on the job site. We’ve trenched 10 feet or more with straight, clean walls, and it’s far more cost-effective.” Roberson’s experience captures the daily site-level difference: fewer breakdowns, less cleanup, and immediate reusability of trench output. Whether you’re using rotary drum cutters, bullhead cutters or chain cutters, KEMROC delivers on-site optimization and sustainable trenching, ideal for excavators tackling demanding conditions coast to coast.

Don’t just take our word for it, here’s also what operators across the U.S. have to say about their experience with KEMROC attachments. According to operator Stephan Roberson, “With Hoe Ram you get bigger chunks and breaks off in different levels, but grinding with KEMROC we can actually reuse the rock on other places of the job site.” He also highlighted the precision of the technology, adding, “With

KEMROC, we trenched 10 foot deep or better and the rock wall is straight up and down. It’s a whole lot cheaper to backfill because the stone you pull out can be reused right back in the ditch.” Operator Rodney Horn shared how KEMROC has transformed productivity on-site: “I’ve done what a hoe ram would do in a week, in one day with KEMROC.” These real-world testimonials prove how KEMROC delivers unmatched productivity, lower operating costs, and smarter trench excavation solutions, making it the go-to choice for contractors seeking efficiency and reliability.

The Future of Trenching in the USA

KEMROC KRC Bullhead Cutter
For ultra-precise trenching in confined spaces, the KEMROC Bullhead Cutter offers an innovative full-face cutting design. Its patented dual angled drum setup ensures clean, narrow trenches without the need for sideways movement, minimizing over-cutting and enhancing efficiency. Equipped with powerful twin motors and optimized hose protection, the Bullhead Cutter delivers precision trenching for utility, pipeline, and soil stabilization projects.

KEMROC EK Chain Cutter
Elevates trenching with its central chain-driven design that delivers precise, full-face cutting. Ideal for tasks demanding fine accuracy, it significantly reduces wear on the excavator swing gear while lowering energy usage compared to conventional rock breakers. Featuring robust construction and ease of maintenance, the EK Chain Cutter is a reliable, high-efficiency solution for trenching and excavation operations.

KEMROC DMW Cutter Wheel
High-performance excavator attachment engineered for micro and cable trenching, precision trenching Projects, concrete demolition, and “cut-and-break” operations. Powered by two high-torque hydraulic motors, this cutter delivers smooth, low-vibration cutting through hard rock and reinforced concrete up to 20305 psi. It can be customized in depths up to 39 In and widths up to 15.7 In, and even operate underwater to depths of 100 ft, making it perfect for both terrestrial and submerged applications.

Conclusion

For contractors looking to gain a competitive edge in pipeline trenching projects, micro trenching projects, utility crossings, excavation, and rock cutting, KEMROC is the ultimate smart solution. Meet KEMROC expert team at Utility Expo – Indoor/North Hall stand number N551 to choose the best-fit smart KEMROC solution for your construction project. By choosing KEMROC, you’re not just investing in an excavator attachment, you’re investing in a faster, safer, and more profitable way of cutting rocks. KEMROC isn’t just another tool in your fleet. It’s a revolution in trenching. The question is simple: Why break when you can cut smarter? With KEMROC, WE WILL ROCK YOU!

KEMROC KR Rotary Drum Cutter Powers Trenching Project, France
Caterpillar 330 with KEMROC KR 150 | Trenching in Hard Limestone Rock

In the heart of Villes le Lac, France, a trenching and excavation project reached new levels of efficiency and precision thanks to the deployment of the KEMROC KR 150 rotary drum cutter. Mounted on a Caterpillar 330 excavator, this high-performance excavator attachment proved its superiority in handling the demands of trench excavation in hard limestone rock with a compressive strength of up to 100 MPa.

Trench Excavation Project Overview

The trench excavation required precise and deep cuts for a critical pipeline construction project. The excavation dimensions spanned 7,300 mm in length, 3,800 mm in depth, and 1,400 mm in width. This job called for a robust and reliable hard rock cutting machine capable of handling high-resistance limestone without compromising on speed or safety.

Unlike traditional trenching equipment, such as hydraulic breakers or conventional trenchers, the KEMROC KR 150 drum cutter offered a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient alternative. It allowed the team to dig trench sections with minimal disruption, lower vibration, and improved environmental control, a major advantage in populated and sensitive zones like Villes le Lac.

KR 150: A Stone Cutting Machine Engineered for Tough Excavation

The KEMROC KR 150 is a powerful drum cutter excavator attachment specifically engineered for demanding trenching applications. With its robust design and optimized pick layout, it excels in milling through medium to hard rock types like limestone. The drum cutter’s high torque allows for effective material removal, reduced wear on the host machine, and exceptional cutting accuracy.

The KEMROC KR 150 is not just a rock cutter, it’s a versatile rock cutting attachment designed for maximum productivity. With minimal noise and vibration, the drum cutter maintains a smooth trench profile, ideal for projects requiring clean sidewalls and precise depth control. This level of refinement transforms it from a backhoe attachment into a trenching powerhouse, built for modern infrastructure needs.

Site Performance & Excavation Results

Throughout the months-long excavation of a trench in France, the KEMROC KR 150 delivered outstanding performance. Operating continuously in high-compression limestone, the attachment completed the trenching project approximately 3 times faster than traditional methods, highlighting its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

The fine material produced by the drum cutter was directly reusable, reducing the need for additional crushing or material handling equipment on-site. This translated into major savings in time, transportation, and disposal costs. By eliminating the uneven chunks typically generated by hydraulic hammers, KEMROC’s trencher solution ensured the excavated trench could be immediately prepared for pipe laying, an essential factor in time-sensitive pipeline construction projects.

Why KEMROC KR 150 Leads the Future of Trenching Equipment?

Contractors chose the KEMROC KR 150 over other brands for one simple reason: performance. This drum cutter redefines trenching with a smart technology that minimizes material waste, enhances output quality, and extends the lifespan of both the excavator and the attachment.

The ability to use fine-cut material directly in backfilling operations is a major breakthrough in excavation of a trench. Moreover, the KEMROC attachment’s design allows for stable, continuous operation even in the toughest geological conditions, making it the go-to solution for trench excavation across Europe.

On top, the KEMROC KR rotary drum cutter offers key advantages such as reduced fuel consumption, lower operating noise, and compatibility with a wide range of excavator models. These benefits make it not only a smart rock cutting excavator attachment, but also a strategic investment for contractors seeking innovation, sustainability, and profitability.

Volvo EC380DL + KEMROC KRD 165 Rotary Drum Cutter | Shaft Excavation Cutting Hard Rock | 50-70 MPa Rock Strength

In a landmark infrastructure project in India, a contractor has chosen the KEMROC KRD 165 drum cutter for the shaft excavation phase of a twin tunnel road project in India. Mounted on a Volvo EC380DL excavator configured with double pump flow, this heavy-duty excavator attachment was selected to tackle exceptionally hard rock formations, rated between 50 and 70 MPa, with precision and efficiency.

Application & Equipment Performance

The primary task involved the vertical excavation of a deep shaft as a preparatory stage for a tunnel boring machine (TBM) operation. Given the geological conditions of the region, the project called for a robust and reliable hard rock cutting excavator attachment. The KEMROC KRD 165 drum cutter excavator proved to be the ideal solution.

Within days of deployment, the KEMROC KRD rotary drum cutter attachment achieved exceptional productivity rates of 20–30 cubic meters per hour, impressive numbers for hard rock excavation. The KEMROC rock cutter not only ensured continuous production but also provided a significant cost advantage by minimizing wear and tear on the excavator and eliminating the need for blasting or hammer-based backhoe attachments.

Why KEMROC KRD 165 Was Chosen?

KEMROC has established a reputation as a leader in the field of excavator attachments, offering smart cutting solutions for a variety of excavation, trenching, and tunnelling tasks. The KRD 165 is a high-performance drum cutter specifically designed for rock cutting and profiling.

Its dual-drum configuration, combined with a powerful hydraulic motor, allows for aggressive penetration and efficient material removal, even in extremely hard geological formations. By pairing this rock cutter with a 38-ton Volvo excavator, the contractor ensured maximum torque, stability, and depth control, key elements in excavation and shaft construction.

What truly sets KEMROC drum cutter apart is its versatility. It not only excels in shaft excavation but will also be redeployed in the next stage of the project to perform precision tunnel profiling for the escape passage. This ability to serve multiple functions with the same excavator attachment significantly reduces capital expenditure and increases return on investment.

On-Site Support and Installation

KEMROC and Dozco India Pvt Ltd (a JV of KEMROC Germany & Dozco India) commitment to customer success goes far beyond equipment delivery. In this case, the drum cutter was delivered, inspected, and installed within a short timeframe. A certified service engineer ensured optimal machine setup, verifying hydraulic pressure at 350 bar and a flow rate of 340 LPM. Detailed operator guidance was provided to ensure proper pick rotation, hose cleaning, and cutter maintenance for sustained performance.

This customer-first approach is what continues to distinguish KEMROC and DOZCO from competitors in India. The team doesn’t just sell smart rock cutting tools, they partner with contractors, offering full technical support and on-site training to optimize application results.

Conclusion: Precision, Power, and ROI

The KEMROC KRD 165 drum cutter is redefining what contractors can expect from a drum cutter excavator. Designed for hard rock excavation, shaft excavation, and tunnel profiling, it operates with surgical precision while maintaining high levels of productivity.

As India accelerates infrastructure development, KEMROC attachments are increasingly being recognized as essential construction site excavator attachment for projects demanding reliability, efficiency, and innovation. From stone cutting machines to specialized excavator mining tools, KEMROC delivers smart solutions that turn complex excavation and rock cutting challenges into competitive advantages.