New directional drilling trio features ergonomic design
Astec Underground has unveiled a lineup of three directional drills with ergonomic operator stations, adjustable seats and single joystick controls. The DD-65 Mini-Max has a 26-horsepower engine, 6,000 pounds of thrust/pullback force and 500 foot-pounds of torque. The DD1215 runs on a 65-horsepower engine that cranks out 12,000 pounds of thrust/pullback and up to 1,500 foot-pounds of torque. And the DD-3238 turns 125 horsepower into 32,000 pounds of thrust/pullback and up to 3,800 foot-pounds of torque.
Drill head takes on any soil condition
The R.A.T.T. (rock adaptable terrain tool) drill head tool from Vermeer gives you the ability to drill and steer through most soil conditions – soft soil, gravel, cobblestone or solid rock – without having to change the downhole drill head when conditions change in the course of a bore. The bent sub design creates a consistent cutting pattern, allowing the R.A.T.T. to drill and steer with less torque, reducing vibration and boosting cutting action. The drill head can also be used with low fluid rates or high-viscosity gels to help prevent frac outs.
Percussive mini directional drill launches from pit
Compact enough to be launched from a manhole or pit, the Grundopit 40/60 mini directional drill from TT Technologies can bore up to 200 feet and install pipes up to 3 inches in diameter. It measures 44 inches long, 19 inches wide and 14 inches tall and delivers 13,200 pounds of thrust, 8,800 pounds of pullback and 442 foot-pounds of torque. Compressed air delivered through the drill stem activates a reciprocating drill head to smash through rock and other obstructions. Angled drill heads allow you to steer the 20-inch drill stems. The company also offers a package option that includes the drill unit with a power pack and bentonite mixing and delivery system.
Compact drill offers fast, easy setup
The Ditch Witch JT2020 Mach 1 directional drill features independent stabilizers and an anchoring system that enables quick setup and the ability to put the drill frame on uneven ground. It offers 20,000 pounds of pullback and a 30-gallon-per-minute drilling fluid system as well as a rack-and-pinion pipe thrust mechanism. The pipe loading system allows you to select columns from the operator’s station, and the two-speed carriage drive quickly and efficiently connects pipe. Tethered cruise control lets you maneuver the JT2020 remotely for easier trailering and set up.
