MBW Soil Pick

The MBW Soil Pick is designed for contractors, utility crews, arborists, and municipal maintenance teams that require precise excavation in sensitive environments. Unlike traditional mechanical digging methods, the Soil Pick uses advanced converging/diverging nozzle technology to accelerate compressed air to supersonic speeds, allowing operators to loosen and remove soil efficiently without direct contact with underground assets. [mbw.com]

A key differentiator of the Soil Pick is its patented non-conductive and non-sparking design, making it particularly well-suited for work near energized electrical lines, gas infrastructure, and other potentially hazardous environments. The lightweight construction, low operator fatigue, and vibration-free operation support productivity during extended use.

Key Features

• Pneumatic excavation system designed for selective soil removal.
• High-velocity air stream generated through converging/diverging nozzle technology.
• Air velocity reaches approximately 1,475 mph for efficient soil fracturing and displacement.
• Helps excavate around buried utilities without damaging nonporous objects.
• Patented dielectric and non-sparking construction for improved jobsite safety.
• Fixed brass nozzle design secured to help prevent accidental nozzle detachment.
• Integrated pressure gauge allows operators to monitor working pressure.
• Lightweight design with zero reported hand-arm vibration.
• Suitable for prolonged operation with reduced operator fatigue.

Benefits

• Protect Underground Infrastructure
  Reduce the risk of damaging utility lines, communication cables, water mains, and other buried assets during excavation.
• Enhance Worker Safety
  The non-sparking and non-conductive design is ideal for environments where electrical hazards or gas leaks may be present.
• Improve Productivity
  The concentrated air stream quickly loosens compacted soil, helping crews complete excavation tasks faster than manual digging methods.
• Reduce Operator Fatigue
  A lightweight body and vibration-free operation increase comfort during extended work shifts.
• Increase Excavation Precision
  The controlled cutting zone enables accurate excavation in congested utility corridors and other sensitive areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Soil Pick different from conventional digging tools?

The Soil Pick uses compressed air rather than mechanical force to break up and remove soil, helping reduce the risk of damaging buried utilities.

Can it be used around electrical and gas utilities?

Yes. The tool features patented non-conductive and non-sparking characteristics intended for work in environments where electrical hazards or gas exposure may exist.

Does the Soil Pick create vibration?

According to MBW, the tool operates with zero hand-arm vibration, helping improve operator comfort during extended use.

Is the Soil Pick suitable for arborist applications?

Yes. It is commonly used for radial trenching and soil decompaction around trees, making it a popular solution in the arboriculture industry.

How is operating pressure monitored?

An integrated pressure gauge on the handle assembly allows operators to verify that the tool is working within the recommended pressure range.

Why is the nozzle fixed rather than replaceable?

MBW secures the nozzle to help prevent it from becoming a detached projectile, prioritizing operator safety.