EK 20 | Compact Excavator Chain Cutter
Precision Trenching Attachment for 2–6 Ton Compact Excavators
- Cutting depth of up to 1,000 mm
- Consistent trench width of 390 mm
- Reduced vibration and noise
- Ideal for trenching cables, pipelines, drainage systems, and service ducts
- Designed for materials up to 25 MPa UCS
The EK 20 Compact Excavator Chain Cutter is part of the EK Chain Cutters range, KEMROC’s patented solution for precise, vibration-free trenching and selective excavation. The EK range is engineered to replace impact-based excavation methods with a continuous cutting principle, allowing contractors to achieve controlled material removal with consistent trench geometry and reduced environmental disturbance.
Designed specifically for compact excavators in the 2–6 ton class, EK 20 delivers accurate trenching and stable cutting performance without relying on percussive force. Instead of generating high vibration, noise, and irregular trench profiles, the patented cutting chain system ensures clean cuts, predictable results, and improved operator control.
Built for trenching in soil, asphalt, concrete, and soft to medium rock formations up to 25 MPa UCS, EK 20 is especially suited for urban projects, utility corridors, roadside works, and renovation environments where precision, low vibration, and low noise are critical. Its compact dimensions, balanced weight, and optimized hydraulic requirements allow seamless integration with modern compact excavators—without compromising machine stability or carrier performance.
- Recommended excavator weight2 – 6 t 4,400 – 13,000 lb
- Rated power22 kW 29.5 hp (22 kW)
- Drum cutter length (A)1,000 mm 40 in
- Cutter head width (B)390 mm 15 in
- Cutter drum diameter (C)320 mm 13 in
- Width of gearbox (B)365 mm 15 in
- Recommended rotation speed100 rpm 100 rpm
- Recommended oil flow20 – 40 l/min 5 – 11 gal/min
- Max. oil flow50 l/min 13 gal/min
- Max. operating hydraulic pressure300 bar 4,350 psi (300 bar)
- Max. torque at max. hydraulic pressure2,000 Nm 1,480 lbf·ft
- Max. cutting force at max. torque12.5 kN 2,810 lbf
- Max. uniaxial compressive strength25 MPa 3,600 psi (25 MPa)
- Weight315 kg 695 lb
- Pick boxPH 14 Type PH 14 Type
- Number of picks in cutter drums56 Pcs 56 Pcs
- Number of picks in the cutter chain54 Pcs 54 Pcs
- Standard pickER 15/29/26/14 C ER 15/29/26/14 C
Why Choose the EK 20 Chain Cutter for Compact Excavators?
Built Specifically for 2–6 Ton Machines
EK 20 is not a downsized heavy cutter—it is purpose-built for compact excavators. With a rated power of 22 kW and optimized hydraulic demand, it delivers professional cutting performance while remaining fully compatible with smaller carrier machines.
Accurate Trenching Without Overbreak
The cutter achieves a cutting depth of up to 1,000 mm and a consistent trench width of 390 mm, producing straight trench walls and uniform profiles. This reduces over-excavation, minimizes backfilling volume, and improves installation accuracy for utilities.
Low Vibration, Low Noise Operation
Unlike breakers or percussive tools, EK 20 operates through continuous cutting. This results in significantly reduced vibration and noise, making it ideal for work near buildings, roads, and existing infrastructure.
With 2,000 Nm of torque at 380 bar and a cutting force of 25 kN, EK 20 maintains stable cutting even in compact or cohesive materials without stalling or excessive wear.
• Recommended oil flow: 20–40 l/min • Maximum oil flow: 50 l/min • Maximum operating pressure: 300 bar These values ensure compatibility with a wide range of compact excavators without additional hydraulic modifications.
The cutter system includes: • 56 picks on the cutter drums • 54 picks on the cutter chain • PH14 pick box system This layout ensures even wear distribution, predictable cutting behavior, and reliable performance in abrasive conditions.
With a total weight of 315 kg, EK 20 maintains excellent balance on compact excavators, improving machine control and reducing mechanical stress on the boom and stick.
Applications of the EK 20 Compact Excavator Chain Cutter
Utility Trenching
EK 20 is ideal for trenching cables, pipelines, drainage systems, and service ducts, delivering clean trenches with minimal surface disruption—especially important in urban and roadside environments.
Selective Excavation
The controlled cutting chain allows operators to remove material only where required, supporting selective excavation and reducing unnecessary material mixing or damage to surrounding ground.
Asphalt and Concrete Cutting
EK 20 efficiently cuts through asphalt layers and lightly reinforced concrete, preparing surfaces for repair or replacement without damaging adjacent structures.
Trenching in Soft to Medium Rock
Designed for materials up to 25 MPa UCS, EK 20 performs reliably in limestone, claystone, compacted soils, and similar formations where conventional trenching tools struggle.
FAQs – EK 20 Chain Cutter
What excavator size is EK 20 designed for?
It is designed for compact excavators in the 2–6 ton class, provided they meet the hydraulic flow and pressure requirements.
Is EK 20 suitable for urban trenching projects?
Yes. Its low vibration and low noise operation make it well-suited for work near buildings, roads, and sensitive infrastructure.
Can EK20 replace a hydraulic breaker for trenching?
In many trenching and cutting applications, yes. it offers greater precision, cleaner trench geometry, and reduced disturbance compared to breakers.
What materials can EK20 cut?
Soil, asphalt, concrete, and soft to medium rock formations up to 25 MPa UCS.
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