Place |
Name |
Characteristic in the rating |
1 | Vermeer D10x15 S3 Navigator | Market leader in HDD installations |
2 | XCMG XZ 200 | The best choice |
3 | Ditch Witch JT40 | The most powerful installation |
4 | Prime Drilling PD 80-33 RP | Best service support |
5 | Forward RX33x120 | Attractive prices |
Until about the middle of the last century, the problem of laying underground communications was as acute as possible. Installing even a small line required considerable effort, but everything changed in 1963, when engineers developed the first horizontal directional drilling rig. Since then, the technology has evolved and is now used everywhere, and machines began to be distinguished by several features:
- the length of the punched hole;
- maximum diameter;
- power plant power;
- movable frame.
And an important factor is the price. There is no upper threshold here, and the cost of a car can reach tens of millions. The choice depends entirely on the tasks that the installation must cope with.
HDD machines have solved the important and complex problem of laying underground utilities, greatly simplifying the work of workers. They have a huge efficiency, and as experts note, the introduction of such equipment at a construction site significantly increases labor safety at the site. Unfortunately, to this day, not all construction companies have mastered this technology, although there are decent options on the market at reasonable prices, which we will also consider in our rating.
TOP-5 best HDD installations
5 Forward RX33x120
Country: China
Average price: RUB 5,500,000
Rating (2022): 4.6
In pursuit of lower prices, Chinese manufacturers traditionally win. This also applies to horizontal drilling rigs. We note right away that calling this product the best will not work, not only because of the technical characteristics, but also the build quality. So, the machine has a traction force of 330 kN with an engine power of over 130 kilowatts. The indicator is excellent, but only if you do not take into account the rather large dimensions of the installation itself. But the torque here is 14 thousand Kn, and this is already a certain record. Pumps up the speed of rotation of the rod, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the machine and increases the time spent on work.
In addition, users note the relatively poor build quality. Machines break down more often and require replacement of expensive modules. An inevitable price to pay for the initially low price tag. But the manufacturer took care of the convenience of the operator in the best possible way. Unlike most installations, here it is in a cabin that moves horizontally and vertically. The review is as convenient as possible, as is the control system.
4 Prime Drilling PD 80-33 RP
Country: Germany
Average price: RUB 40,000,000
Rating (2022): 4.7
The HDD installation is constantly subjected to a significant load and the failure of all equipment or its modules can be a reason to stop all work being done. That is why it is so important that the manufacturer provides customers with constant service support, and this brand has clearly surpassed its competitors. The technical support service works 24 hours 7 days a week.There are representative offices in almost all major cities, and if necessary, a specialist can specially go to the site, even if it is located in another city. Of course, you will have to pay for such services. Maintenance of the car is already included in its price, so the price tag can be a little shocking.
As for the technical characteristics, it is meaningless to talk about them, since the hallmark of Prime Drilling rigs is modularity. You simply buy a power unit and complete it for your tasks. The pulling force can vary from 300 to 1000 kN, as well as the length of the rod, as well as the torque. With this brand, you don't have to sacrifice anything, you buy exactly what you need.
3 Ditch Witch JT40
Country: USA
Average price: RUB 15,000,000
Rating (2022): 4.7
At a certain stage of development, developers faced the problem of laying communications in cramped conditions. The construction of an object in an open field does not cause difficulties with the use of large equipment, but problems arise in a city. The Ditch Witch JT40 has been designed specifically to work in such conditions, and its compact dimensions do not affect the performance and quality of work.
The Deutz engine, often used on horizontal drilling rigs, has a power of almost 50 kilowatts, which provides a pulling force of 180 kN with a torque of almost 7.5 thousand. The machine is equipped with low profile rubber tracks allowing it to maneuver in tight terrain. The moment is very important, especially considering the weight of the car is almost 10 tons. They also note the convenience of the operator, which the manufacturer took care of as much as possible.The workplace is equipped with everything you need, and the seat adjustment allows you to get a good overview of the work area.
2 XCMG XZ 200
Country: China
Average price: RUB 6,000,000
Rating (2022): 4.8
When choosing a HDD installation, you should look for the perfect combination of price and quality, which is quite difficult in the conditions of imported production of this equipment. As always, Chinese engineers come to the rescue, luring potential buyers with the best price tags with a completely acceptable product quality. A vivid proof of this is this machine for laying communications. Not the most powerful in its category, but worthy of competing with leading American and European manufacturers.
The power of the diesel plant here is 110 kilowatts at a rotation speed of 2,200 revolutions. The engine allows drilling with a pulling force of more than 20 tons with a pump speed of 250 liters per minute. The diameter of the installation rod is 60 centimeters, which is also a worthy indicator and allows you to lay not only fiber optic cables, but also pipes of medium diameter. The disadvantages include not the best performance, but users note high maintainability, that is, it is easy to find spare parts for a car, and their price is not shocking.
1 Vermeer D10x15 S3 Navigator
Country: USA
Average price: RUB 4,500,000
Rating (2022): 4.9
Appearing on the market in the 90s of the last century, the American company Vermeer quickly gained popularity. The model range is constantly expanding, and the company is improving production technologies.This model is the latest in the Navigator line, and the HDD unit has received a number of advantages over previous modifications.
A Deutz engine is installed on its board, moving the carriage at a speed of 63.4 meters per minute. The punching force is 45 kN, and the torque is over two thousand. The figure is very high, especially considering the attractive price. It should also be noted compact dimensions, the length of the machine is less than 4 meters, and the convenience of the operator. In addition to a comfortable seat, the rig is equipped with a bright and large display that allows you to control the drilling process as much as possible. Simply put, we have the best rig that allows horizontal drilling at high speed and does not shock the consumer with a price tag.