Abstract: A mobile digging and backfill system for removing and collecting material above a buried utility. The system comprises a mobile chassis, a collection tank mounted to the chassis, a water pump mounted to the chassis for delivering a pressurized liquid flow against the material for loosening the material at a location, a vacuum pump connected to the collection tank so that an air stream created by the vacuum pump draws the material and the fluid from the location into the collection tank, and at least one backfill reservoir mounted to the chassis for carrying backfill for placement at the location.

Abstract: A self-propelled mobile vacuum system comprising a vacuum source that provides suction for the removal of debris, a collection tank for storing debris collected by said vacuum source suction, and at least two rolling drive systems for maneuvering the vacuum system within a work space. A motor provides power to the vacuum source and the two rolling drive systems, and the system has an overall width within the range of 24 to 48 inches, an overall length within the range of 5 to 10 feet, and an overall height within the range of 60 to 84 inches.

Abstract: A collection tank for use in a vacuum operated earth reduction system, the collection tank comprising a closed first end, an open second end defining a tank sealing flange and a body extending between the closed first end and the open second end. An internal chamber defined by the body, the closed first end and the open second end has a door coupled to the open second end and is configured to releasably seal the open second end. An automated door closer is coupled to a center of the door, wherein the automated door closer provides a closing force at the center of the door so that the closing force is equally distributed about a periphery of the door to seal the door against the tank sealing flange.

Abstract: A collection tank for use in a vacuum operated earth reduction system, the collection tank comprising a closed first end, an open second end defining a tank sealing flange and a body extending between the closed first end and the open second end. An internal chamber defined by the body, the closed first end and the open second end has a door coupled to the open second end and is configured to releasably seal the open second end. An automated door closer is coupled to a center of the door, wherein the automated door closer provides a closing force at the center of the door so that the closing force is equally distributed about a periphery of the door to seal the door against the tank sealing flange.

Abstract: A collection tank for use in a vacuum operated earth reduction system, the collection tank comprising a closed first end, an open second end defining a tank sealing flange and a body extending between the closed first end and the open second end. An internal chamber defined by the body, the closed first end and the open second end has a door coupled to the open second end and is configured to releasably seal the open second end. An automated door closer is coupled to a center of the door, wherein the automated door closer provides a closing force at the center of the door so that the closing force is equally distributed about a periphery of the door to seal the door against the tank sealing flange.

Abstract: An earth reduction tool configured to connect to a vacuum source of an earth reduction system for moving material comprising an elongated body defining a first end for connecting to the vacuum source, an opposite second end, and an elongated vacuum passage extending through the elongated body between the first and the second ends. The tool also has an elongated air passage extending from the body second end to at least a point intermediate the elongated body first and second ends, the air passage having an open first end and an open second end proximate the elongated body second end that is in fluid communication with the elongated body vacuum passage second end, wherein when the vacuum source pulls a vacuum through the elongated body vacuum passage, air is drawn up into the vacuum passage from the air passage open second end.

Abstract: A mobile digging and backfill system for removing and collecting material above a buried utility. The system comprises a mobile chassis, a collection tank mounted to the chassis, a water pump mounted to the chassis for delivering a pressurized liquid flow against the material for loosening the material at a location, a vacuum pump connected to the collection tank so that an air stream created by the vacuum pump draws the material and the fluid from the location into the collection tank, and at least one backfill reservoir mounted to the chassis for carrying backfill for placement at the location.

Abstract: A mobile digging and backfill system for removing and collecting material above a buried utility. The system comprises a mobile chassis, a collection tank mounted to the chassis, a water pump mounted to the chassis for delivering a pressurized liquid flow against the material for loosening the material at a location, a vacuum pump connected to the collection tank so that an air stream created by the vacuum pump draws the material and the fluid from the location into the collection tank, and at least one backfill reservoir mounted to the chassis for carrying backfill for placement at the location.

Abstract: A portable vacuum implement for use with a skid steer vehicle has a frame, a skid steer mounting saddle coupled to the frame and a motor mounted to the frame. A vacuum pump mounted on the frame is coupled to the motor so that the motor drives the vacuum pump. A collection tank mounted on the frame is coupled to the vacuum pump so that the vacuum pump pulls a vacuum through the collection tank. A vacuum head is connected to the collection tank by a first hose for vacuuming debris at an excavation site.