Success Snapshot: Infrastructure Innovation with Suction Excavator Hire March 13, 2026 9:37 am Force One were instructed to provide suction excavator hire services on a major infrastructure scheme that will deliver a new 10-mile dual carriageway. The project will transform a key section of highway through junction upgrades and improved traffic flow. Force One supported the safe excavation of sensitive areas across the site while minimising disruption and protecting existing utilities. Key Challenges on the Project Three key challenges needed to be addressed during the works: OLE (Overhead Line Equipment) Working near Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) required additional safety measures for the suction excavation process. To address this, Force One collaborated closely with the customer and X-Watch Systems to design, develop, and install the UK’s first height and slew restriction system specifically for a suction excavator remote nozzle. This innovation ensures that suction excavator hire can be carried out safely in restricted environments where overhead infrastructure presents a risk. The unit now operates daily on this site and others, serving as the UK’s only system of its kind for vacuum excavator operations. Hard Clay Conditions The site also presented extremely hard clay ground conditions, which can prove challenging. As part of Force One’s vacuum excavator hire solution, the team conducted several on-site demonstrations to showcase the benefits of the Commando Water Jetter and the High pressure air lance unit. Following these demonstrations, the site team adopted both pieces of equipment for all suction excavator hire operations, significantly improving productivity while maintaining the highest safety standards. Access Challenges A significant portion of the work on the project required “off-road” access, which could have been difficult for a standard suction excavator. Force One operates one of the UK’s only 8×8 rough-terrain suction excavator. Built on a military-style chassis with eight-wheel drive and high ground clearance, this machine is designed to operate effectively in more challenging terrain. Delivering Safe and Efficient Vacuum Excavator Hire Works on the scheme continue to be highly successful, demonstrating how Force One can deliver safe, efficient excavation on complex infrastructure projects. The project highlights Force One’s ability to collaborate with clients, develop innovative solutions, and adapt to meet challenging site conditions.
