What is a scissor pit digger?
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The scissor pit digger got its name because it works in the same way as regular scissors. | |
The design of the scissor pole hole digger is similar to a pair of scissors because it is shaped like an "X". Its handles intersect at the pivot point, which means the blades cross on opposite sides. | |
It is designed so that the blades can be opened wider when digging, as the handles can be moved further apart. This is an advantage when digging, as the blades can pick up more soil as it is pulled out of the hole, which means the process can be completed at a faster pace. Despite this, there is also the disadvantage that a wider opening of the blade means that there is a risk that the hole will be dug wider than necessary. | |
A scissor pit digger is often made entirely of steel, including both blades and handles. This can be an advantage as the material's high tensile strength means it is strong enough to withstand heavy repetitive digging. | |
The blades are welded to the handles rather than bolted on like other excavators. This makes them more durable, as there is less risk of the blades coming off the handles if they come into contact with rocks in the soil. | |
Due to these factors, a scissor excavator is often the ideal tool for working on rocky or gravel ground, as it can grab large volumes of soil without the risk of breaking. | |
However, when purchasing an all-metal scissor excavator, it is important to ensure that it is made from cast steel and not stamped or shaped steel, as these types of metal are not as durable. | |
How does a scissor excavator work? | |
Like all other excavators, the scissor excavator works by first piercing the ground with its blades. | |
However, the excavator differs from other types in that it uses a compound scissor action where the blades close when the handles are closed and the blades open when the handles open. |