Skip to content
Introductory Offer: list your rental locations free for 3 months.Start free
Vac4Rent

Glossary

Dig Tube / Wand

What is Dig Tube / Wand?

The dig tube is the large vacuum hose that suctions slurry into the debris body, while the wand is the handheld high-pressure water lance the operator uses to cut soil; together they perform hydro excavation.

In hydro excavation, the operator directs a handheld wand that sprays pressurized water to break the ground, while the boom-mounted dig tube (vacuum tube) immediately suctions the resulting slurry into the debris body. Coordinating the wand and dig tube lets crews dig precise holes and expose utilities without contact.

Wand pressure is governed by the water system's GPM and PSI, and dig tube performance depends on the blower's CFM and vacuum lift. Together they define digging speed and precision. Rent hydro excavation equipment configured for your job through a free Vac4Rent request.

Equipment for this work

Hydrovac TruckHydrovac Trailer

Guides that cover Dig Tube / Wand

Related terms

BoomCFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)GPM (Gallons per Minute)Hydro Excavation

Need to rent the equipment?

Submit one free request and connect directly with rental companies. No commission, no booking fees.

Submit a rental requestBrowse equipment types

Dig Tube / Wand: common questions

What is Dig Tube / Wand?+

The dig tube is the large vacuum hose that suctions slurry into the debris body, while the wand is the handheld high-pressure water lance the operator uses to cut soil; together they perform hydro excavation.

How should a hydro excavation wand be used near buried utilities?+

A concentrated water stream can damage cable jackets, pipe coatings, and plastic lines if it is held too close or in one spot. Operators typically keep the wand moving, hold it at a distance from the suspected line, and may reduce pressure or change tips as they get close. Utility owners and state rules may set specific requirements for digging near their facilities, including limits on water pressure, so check them before starting.

What personal protective equipment is needed to run a hydrovac wand?+

Wand operators are exposed to high-pressure water, flying debris, noise, and traffic. Typical protection includes eye and face protection, gloves, waterproof clothing, safety-toe boots, hearing protection, and high-visibility apparel on roadway jobs. Exact requirements come from the employer's safety program, OSHA, and site rules. Never point the wand at a person, and keep the trigger released when moving between holes or setting the wand down.

What causes a hydrovac dig tube to clog, and how do crews prevent it?+

The dig tube clogs most often when large rocks, roots, or sticky clay enter faster than the airflow can carry them. Operators reduce clogs by breaking soil into smaller pieces with the wand, adding water to thin heavy material, and pulling the tube back briefly to let air clear it. Using a tube diameter suited to the soil also helps. Ask the rental company which tube sizes come with the unit.