Higher tank capacity means better efficiency — and a higher profit margin. That’s the idea Vermeer had in mind when the company redesigned the VXT600 vacuum excavator. Not only has the load capacity been increased for road use, the component and technology reliability and serviceability have been optimized.
With a 12-cubic-yard elongated spoil tank design and 1,200-gallon freshwater tank capacity, the VXT600 weighs 40,000 pounds, making it extremely lightweight for its size class. This design allows for even weight distribution when traveling, while maximizing the volume of material hauled. It also has a low profile with a height (with boom) of 12.25 feet so that it can maneuver under trees, power lines and bridges.
“We have incorporated many features that contractors appreciate about the popular Vermeer VXT300 vacuum excavator to create the larger and more powerful VXT600,” says T.J. Steele, product manager for Vermeer MV Solutions. “We believe this second-generation VXT600 is exactly what the industry is looking for in a high-production vacuum excavator.”
The powerful digging machine operates quietly while on the job, Steele says. It features a vacuum system powered by a 6,400 cfm helical tri-lobe Jurop blower. With a 23-foot boom, an 8-inch-diameter dig hose, a vacuum level of 27 inches Hg, and a water pump that produces 10 gpm of flow at 3,000 psi, it can dig quickly and deeply. Additionally, the boom dig hose can be stowed with the dig tube attached to minimize setup time between tasks.
When it’s time to empty the spoil tank, crews don’t need to unstow the boom before dumping, and the tank’s cam-over door is easy to operate. The spoil tank can be lifted to a 50-degree angle for quick offloading. For even more efficient cleanouts, an optional tank vibrator is available. It includes a handwashing station for operator convenience, a 7-inch LCD electronic display and a full-function wireless remote with the option of a belly pack or handheld unit. There are two chassis options available: a Kenworth T880 truck with a 510 hp Paccar MX-13 engine and a six-speed Allison 4500RDS transmission; and a Mack Granite truck with a 505 hp MP8 engine with the six-speed Allison 4500RDS.
“It is an excellent choice for utility contractors who want to increase their productivity,” says Steele. “We designed the new VXT600 from the ground up with the goal of making the lightest 12-yard truck on the market.” 866-814-1466; www.vermeer.com
