The Vermeer Armor® drilling system is popular among horizontal directional drilling (HDD) contractors because of its versatility and rugged design. The rock-focused drilling system uses interchangeable drill bits that can be easily swapped out depending on the ground conditions, helping to eliminate the need to purchase additional housing and tooling.
Vermeer also offers the industry-unique Armor system rebuild program that helps extend the usable life of Gauntlet™ and Lance™ bits, as well as select Armor system housings. It’s an easy-to-use program that can help reduce your out-of-pocket tooling expense and get the most from your Armor drilling system.
How the program works
When an Armor system bit or housing becomes worn out, don’t replace it — rebuild it. All you have to do is contact your local Vermeer dealer to get started.
Your dealer will send your used bit or housing directly to the Vermeer manufacturing facility in Pella, Iowa. It will be reviewed by the Vermeer team of HDD tooling engineers and undergo a comprehensive analysis by staff tooling experts. Most bits can be rebuilt multiple times depending on the condition of the bit mount. If it is worn beyond the allowable tolerances, the bit will have to be replaced.
After passing the analysis, the cutting profile of the drill bit or drill housing will be cut off, and a new end will be welded on. This process involves preheating the bit, so the tooling’s high alloy steel doesn’t become brittle. Once the new end is welded on, carbide grit is applied to the hard-facing weld. A serial number is then assigned to the tooling, and a hash mark is added to indicate how many times it has been rebuilt.
Vermeer experts will restore your bit or housing to a like new condition, and it should last just as long. Once the rebuilding process is complete, Vermeer will return the rebuilt bit or housing to you.
Everyone at Vermeer understands the urgency about getting a drill bit back on the jobsite, so rebuild work is completed as quickly as possible to minimize the time you’re without that bit. Vermeer also offers expedited shipping options for even faster turnaround times. To learn more about the program, contact your local Vermeer dealer.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region. Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications.
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