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What is Vac‑Ex?
The term Vac‑Ex (also written as Vac Ex or Vacex) is commonly used in the UK to describe vacuum excavation, a safer and more efficient alternative to manual digging. Instead of using buckets or shovels, Vac‑Ex machines remove material through powerful airflow, reducing the risk of cable and pipe strikes.
Vacuum Excavators vs Suction Excavators
Although many people use the terms interchangeably, Vac‑Ex, Vac Ex and Vacex usually refer to suction excavators. Here is the clear difference:
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Suction Excavators
- Use high‑powered fans to generate massive airflow.
- Designed for soil, gravel, ballast, sand and dry material.
- Truck‑mounted systems, widely used on UK utility and construction sites.
- Provide precision, depth and reach for safe excavation around buried utilities.
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Vacuum Excavators
- Use pump‑based negative pressure inside a sealed tank.
- Best suited to liquids, slurry, and sludge.
- Common in waste management, sewer cleaning and drainage.
- Less effective for heavy soils and solid excavation tasks.
In the UK, when contractors say Vac‑Ex, they almost always mean a suction excavator, not a liquid vacuum truck.
What are Vac‑Ex Machines Used For?
Vac‑Ex suction excavators are widely used wherever safe and non‑destructive excavation is required. By using airflow instead of mechanical digging, Vac‑Ex machines reduce risk while increasing productivity. Typical uses include:
- Utility works around electricity, gas, fibre optic and water networks
- Civil engineering and large‑scale infrastructure projects
- Highway, motorway and railway maintenance
- Construction sites that demand precision and reduced surface disruption
Because of these benefits, Vac‑Ex, Vac Ex and Vacex machines are now standard equipment for contractors across the UK.
Vac‑Con Vac‑Ex Services
Vac‑Con provides nationwide support for Vac‑Ex machines, including suction excavators from leading manufacturers such as MTS, RSP, Naaktgeboren and Longo. Our services include:
- Vac‑Ex Servicing & Inspection – regular compliance checks and preventative maintenance
- Vac‑Ex Repairs & Maintenance – workshop repairs and emergency on‑site support
- Vac‑Ex Mobile Call‑Outs – 24/7 nationwide breakdown cover
- Vac‑Ex OEM Parts – genuine parts supply for all major suction excavator brands
- Vac‑Ex Hire - rental of suction excavators
Looking to purchase a Vac Ex?
If you’re in the market for a Vac‑Ex (also known as Vac Ex or Vacex), explore our range of quality used suction excavators. Find reliable machines from leading brands, ready to support your next project.