CommScope ConQuest Conduit Construction - Manual (Page 29)

Underground Installation Methods 4.11
Vibratory Static Plowing
Vibratory Plowing Method
Vibratory plowing can offer substantial productivity gains over other
direct burial methods. A tractor (usually smaller than that used in
static plowing) moves slowly forward as a vibrating blade splits
the earth and places the conduit at the required depth. Because
terrain and soil types vary, contact your plow manufacturer for
their recommendation. We strongly recommend a professionally
engineered single or double feed tube plow blade with a tube at
least 0.5 inch (1.25 cm) larger than the largest conduit size and
a radius no smaller than the minimum bend radius of the largest
conduit size.
At minimum, an operator and a helper / feeder are needed for plowing installation. Local regulations may require (and
CommScope strongly recommends) that warning tape be plowed in with the conduit. Most plow manufactures make
plow blades that bury conduit and tape at the same time.
Dig a trench deep enough and at least twice the length of the plow blade/chute for the plow blade to enter
comfortably. A similar trench should be dug at the other end of the installation. The conduit may pay-off from the front
of the tractor or from a stationary reel along the route. In the tractor method, pay the conduit over the top of the reel.
Do not use reel brakes.
In the stationary reel method, pull the conduit end from the reel to the starting trench. Use safety cones to mark
and protect the conduit from pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Remove the back plate from the blade and inspect the feed tube for burrs, rough surfaces and sharp edges. Clean
out any dirt or rocks. Cap or tape the end of the conduit. Carefully pull enough conduit through the blade to allow for
splicing, etc. Reattach the back plate. Have someone hold the conduit end to keep it from being pulled as the tractor
initially moves forward. Have a worker manually feed the conduit into the plow blade once the blade is completely in
the ground.
Start the vibrator after forward movement begins. Have the blade in solid contact with the earth before applying full
RPM. DO NOT VIBRATE IN PLACE FOR MORE THAN 30 SECONDS.
Typical vibrating plow setup