The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Directional Drill Machines

When choosing a Horizontal directional drill for your operations, you may want to choose based on a variety of factors ' the drilling conditions being one of them.

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In this article, we take an overview of drilling techniques and the different models of Horizontal Directional Drills to help you in your decision-making process.

First, the working conditions ' soft rock, hard rock, and loam.

Horizontal directional drilling techniques drilling in soft rock

Step one ' Pilot Boring using a gauntlet bit, and the carve steering technique to complete the bore.

Step two ' Pull back using a fluted reamer and a swivel to pull the pipe or cable through.

Horizontal directional drilling technique for loam.

Step one  ' pilot boring using a dirt bit.

Step two  ' pull back using a reamer and a helical reamer and swivel.

Horizontal directional drilling techniques for hard rock.

Step one ' pilot boring using a dual rod drill head and a technique called position bent for sub steering.

Step two ' pull back using a hole opener and swivel.

The use of this tool makes the hole larger and allows a larger pipe or cable to be pulled through the cavity.

TYPES OF HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

D130X150S PIPELINE DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

This is specifically designed for larger horizontal directional drilling projects.

The features of this particular pipeline directional drill include a climate-controlled cab and compact footprint which makes it well suited for hard to access and narrow job sites.

The operator-controlled rod loader helps minimize the labour involved and also an optional front-mounted stake down system helps reduce the amount of time and materials needed to secure the drill. The optional telescoping crane can help reduce the amount of support equipment needed on site.

This model features a three-speed gearbox which helps improve the overall efficiency of the drill as operators can adjust the machine's torque to match different ground conditions. There are two engine options available one having a manufacturer's rated power of 240 hp and the second option having 260 hp. The hydraulic tank holds up to 416 L while the fuel tank holds 284 L. The optional crane has a maximum lifting capacity of kg and a maximum reach of 700 kg at 6.3 m. The maximum entry angle for the drill pipe is 20° with a length of 6.1 m and a diameter of 8.9 cm.

D220X300S HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

Suitable for tough terrain or urban settings this HDD drill provides power to maximize productivity.

Featuring a climate control cabin helps reduce operator fatigue, making it ideal for hotter environments.

The open-top vise design allows for removing and adding tooling when doing horizontal directional drilling.

This directional drill also has a dual pivot rack. This provides entry angles from 10° to 24°.  Having this range means that versatility is maximised for different pipes and job sites.

Boring efficiency with this model can be increased thanks to the optional single row sliding arm rod loader.  This rod loader allows for up to the staging of five rods.

This also has an optional onboard drilling fluid pump making it suitable for larger projects.  It can also be used with a standalone pump if the additional fluid flow is required.

The engine on this model has a power rating of 400 hp. The optional crane has a lifting capacity at  a 6.2m maximum reach of 500 kg.

D330X500 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

Highway transport is a feature of this drill even though it will be an overweight load meaning it can be transported at any time of day as it is within legal dimensions in transport mode.

It also features a self-contained drill which minimises equipment requirements from a support perspective.

This drill features an auto drill which allows the operator to set the rotation and thrust pull backpressure while drilling in changing soil conditions.

It also features onboard diagnostics which means that serviceability and troubleshooting are made easier for operators.

The crane has a maximum lifting capacity of .7 kg, and with the boom extended to a maximum reach of 7.7m a max lift of .6 kg.

D60X90S HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

Ideal for horizontal directional drilling in congested urban or residential areas the D60X90 has a guaranteed sound power rating of 107 DBA.

This compact drill is suitable for a variety of applications including light pipeline work and long fibre-optic cable shots.

It takes advantage of technology by allowing operators to load a bore plan via flash drive and view it digitally with a touchscreen display.

It comes with two drill pipe options including the first option with a rod diameter of 7.3 cm and that second option a rod diameter of 8.9 cm.

Its compact size means its transport length is 9 m and it's width is 254 cm making it the perfect choice to manoeuvre on congested job sites.

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D10X15S3 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

Designed for small service installations, it actually can help your crew increase their productivity to move from one job to the next meaning you can get cables and pipes in the ground in a shorter time frame.

Operator training time is short as it features common controls and intuitive dual joysticks to help manage precision for the drill operator.

This HDD model has a narrow footprint of only 111.8 cm in width making it perfect for urban spaces. While it is small, it is still powerful thanks to having a thrust pullback of 10,000 lb.

This model is also suitable for neighborhoods thanks to it's reduced noise output,  making communication for your team easier.

The fuel tank is 68.1 L and the hydraulic system is 94.6 L and the rod diameter is 4.3 cm with a bend radius of 29.1 m.

D20X22S3 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

This horizontal directional drill is suitable for installing cable fibre and product pipe efficiently in urban areas it features come and controls which assist with training operators.

Featuring a narrow lightweight design compared to other models means it can sit comfortably on a trailer alongside a mixed system.

This drill is designed to maximize job site productivity thanks to its rotational efficiency meaning that linear feet can be laid faster on job sites. It comes with two drill pipe options.  The first one being at 3 m in length and a 4.8 cm rod diameter with a bend radius of 30.1 m.  The second option is a length of 3 m with a rod diameter of 5.2 cm and a bend radius of 31.1 m

D23X30S3 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

A horizontal directional drill suitable for compact urban or commercial job sites.

Featuring a 100 HP engine this HDD is compact yet powerful and also ultraquiet making it perfect for working in neighborhoods thanks to its 99 DBA guaranteed sound power level.

It features thrust pullback of 24,000lbs a maximum carriage speed of 62.8 m/m.

D23X30DRS3 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

Designed for drilling in rock this drill uses a jewel rod technology in a small machine which means that operators can manoeuvre efficiently and confidently through congested rock sites in cities or neighborhoods or tight job sites.

D24X40S3 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

Designed to offer drilling power and tracking on job sites,  this is the choice to maximise productivity. This drill out paces competitor models thanks to its 270 rpm rotational speed meaning that operators can complete jobs faster.

Also featuring a touchscreen display this makes it easier for operators to view locate information and ball plans to help productivity.

The drill pipe for this model has a length of 3 m a rod diameter of 6 cm and a bend radius of 33 m. Its fuel tank is 166.6 L and also has an antifreeze tank capacity of 14.7 L.

D40X55S3 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

Suitable for long fibre shots and light pipeline work this drill has 40,000lb of thrust and pull back to help maximise productivity on site.

It can be configured to a contractor's needs with a range of 3.0  meter or 4.6 meter rod options.  The carriage speed of 57.3 m/min means that anyone choosing this machine to complete works on site will be able to install more linear feet per day.

The operator cab is an excavator style that allows more legroom for people using this drill. It also comes with a full colour touchscreen so it is easier for operators to locate information with digital bore plans.

D40X55D RS3 HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLS

This horizontal directional drill can handle a range of conditions from hard medium and soft rock and also loan dirt and clay. It is designed so that the appropriate tooling can be selected to match the ground conditions which means an entire job can be completed with one machine.

This drill is also a hammer ready and has been tested for Australian conditions.

NEED MORE INFORMATION ON CHOOSING THE RIGHT HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILL?

Insights by Ditch Witch

When it comes to horizontal directional drilling (HDD) for utility installations, selecting the right drill is essential for maximizing productivity, managing costs, and meeting project deadlines. Whether you're tackling challenging soil conditions or working on tight urban jobsites, the right equipment can make all the difference. Here's how to choose the best HDD drill for your specific needs, along with a few pro tips.

1. Consider Bore Specifications and Project Scope

The size of the installed product and bore distances are critical factors. Ditch Witch HDD drills are designed to handle a range of thrust and pullback capabilities, making it easy to match the right drill to your project.

For instance:

• Small Drills (e.g., Ditch Witch JT10): Perfect for diameters up to 4 inches and distances of around 300 feet. Ideal for smaller-scale utility installations in urban environments.
• Midsize Drills (e.g., Ditch Witch JT24): A versatile option for installations up to 6 inches and 500 feet.
• Large Drills (e.g., Ditch Witch JT120): Engineered for major infrastructure projects requiring 120,000 lbs of thrust and pullback, enabling efficient installation over long distances with larger diameters.

Pro Tip: Choosing the right drill upfront reduces delays and boosts ROI by ensuring the equipment is suited to the project size and complexity.

2. Evaluate Jobsite Conditions

Both above- and below-ground conditions significantly impact your drill choice. Here's how Ditch Witch drills cater to varying conditions:

• Urban Jobsites: Compact drills like the JT5 or JT10 minimize disruption and require less supplementary equipment, making them ideal for tight spaces.
• Challenging Ground Conditions: For rocky or mixed soils, Ditch Witch's All-Terrain (AT) Series provides the power and reliability to drill through hard rock. Softer soils? Stick with the JT Series for cost-efficient operations.

By matching your drill to the terrain, you minimize downtime and avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your equipment.

3. AT vs. JT: Which Drill is Right for You?

The Ditch Witch JT Series offers reliability across a variety of soil conditions and project types, while the AT Series is purpose-built for tough ground formations like solid rock.

• JT Series Benefits:
  • Cost-effective for projects in softer soils.
  • Requires less upfront investment and supplementary equipment.
• AT Series Benefits:
  • Tackles hard rock formations quickly, reducing job time and increasing profitability.
  • Ideal for contractors who frequently encounter mixed or rocky soils.

Pro Tip: While the AT Series involves a larger initial investment, its superior performance in tough conditions provides a solid return on investment for contractors working in diverse environments.

4. Optimize for ROI and Productivity

For HDD owners, maximizing ROI and managing operational efficiency are top priorities. Ditch Witch drills are built with durability and performance in mind, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs. Additionally, reliable dealer support ensures you get the help you need, whether it's training new employees or addressing unexpected equipment issues.

Key considerations for boosting ROI include:

• Choosing a drill that matches the scale of your projects to avoid underutilization.
• Investing in equipment with robust support for maintenance and parts, ensuring long-term reliability.

5. Build Strong Contractor Relationships

As an HDD owner, your success often depends on strong relationships with general contractors and utility owners. Ditch Witch helps facilitate these relationships by providing reliable equipment that contractors trust to get the job done. With a proven track record of performance and versatility, Ditch Witch drills help you deliver on promises, maintain your reputation, and keep projects moving on time and within budget.

6. Consult the Experts

Every jobsite is unique, and the best drill for your project depends on factors like bore specifications, soil type, and environmental constraints. That's why it's essential to work with a knowledgeable dealer who understands your needs. Ditch Witch dealers are industry experts equipped to guide you toward the right drill, provide training for your crew, and help you stay compliant with regulations.

Decision Time

Choosing the right HDD drill for utility installations doesn't have to be overwhelming. By carefully evaluating your project requirements, jobsite conditions, and operational needs, you can select the perfect Ditch Witch HDD drill to maximize productivity, build contractor trust, and achieve long-term success.

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