The Invention That Tackled Torque

One-of-a-Kind Feature Improves Operator Safety

In the mid-1970s, Van Cox set out to solve one of earth drilling’s most punishing problems — auger torque. Cox, an engineer for Little Beaver, soon completed a design and secured a patent for what is now known as the torque tube. The one-of-a-kind invention protects operators from the harmful effects of a drill’s torque by transferring kickback from the auger to the power source.

More than 40 years later, deck builders, fence contractors, landscapers and rental customers continue to enjoy torque-free drilling as well as the labor-saving benefits made possible by safe, one-person drilling.

Mechanical earth drill torque tube

By transferring dangerous kickback to the engine carriage as opposed to the handles, one person can safely operate a Little Beaver drill.

The invention remains a defining feature on Little Beaver’s of mechanical and hydraulic earth drills, and it continues to make life easier for business owners and drill operators thanks to the many benefits of torque-free drilling.

Less Manpower: By transferring dangerous kickback to the engine carriage as opposed to the handles, one person can safely operate a Little Beaver drill. Most drills without torque protection require two operators for safe use. One-person drilling frees up the second individual to work on other tasks so jobs are completed in less time.

Fewer Strains: Kickback on traditional drills can jar an operator’s body, causing strains and injuries, which lead to time off and worker’s compensation costs. Even minor injuries, ones that don’t result in time away from work, can slow individuals down, decreasing overall production.

Easier Use: Since the torque tube absorbs kickback, operators don’t need to work as hard to control the machine. This significantly reduces fatigue while allowing operators of any age or experience level to easily handle the drill.

If you’re still not convinced of the benefits of Van Cox’s invention, see Little Beaver’s solutions for yourself.

Recent Posts

A Formula for Increased Fencing Profit

There’s a lot of math involved in running a fencing company. Calculating the time required to complete a job, the number of crew members that will be needed on site, how many jobs the operation can take on and the cost of...

Small Spaces, Big Insights

Soil sampling in confined spaces is a critical step in construction, urban agriculture and foundation repair projects. However, not every project has the space to accommodate a big soil sampling rig. For projects in confined spaces —...

Anchoring Made Easy: 90-Minute Mobile Home Stabilization

Strong winds and other extreme weather events are potentially frightening, no matter where you live. This is especially true for mobile home owners, who are often more susceptible to storm damage. Mobile home anchoring is one way to...

Augers, Points & Blades Wear Issues

Maximize Drill Performance Operators sometimes forget that points and blades need regular maintenance just like an earth drill does. Too often, these small pieces are forgotten in the day-to-day shuffle of drilling projects....

Choosing the Right Earth Drilling Equipment for Your Project

Whether you’re a DIY’er looking to complete one simple backyard project or a contractor tackling customer jobs, choosing the correct drill type and auger for a project significantly increases the ease and efficiency of your drilling...

Safe Storage

Store Your Earth Drill Properly this Winter Most contractors and rental centers that employ earth drills will experience an approximately 3-4 month winter period in which the equipment is not being used. Before storing your Little...

Groundbreaking Stability

Little Beaver’s Efficient Tool for Tent Anchoring As anyone in the event industry knows, there are several different ways to anchor a commercial tent. Weighted options include sandbags and water barrels, as well as concrete and iron...

So, You Want a Fence… Who’s Going to Install It?

Fences keep children and pets inside your yard while keeping intruders or unwanted critters out. They can also be useful for privacy and noise reduction. Once you’ve decided that you want to build a fence, the biggest question is: do...

Embracing the Benefits of Equipment Rental

Maximize potential while minimizing expenses Providing quality services while maintaining a healthy bottom line will forever be high on a contractor’s priority list. Renting drilling equipment is one way to maximize productivity and...

Fixing the Foundation

Why the Big Beaver Earth Drill is Ideal for Foundation Repair Projects The strength of a structure lies in its foundation. Without a strong base, the entire building is at risk. And even though a house may have initially been built...