Compact horizontal directional drilling (HDD) emerged in the 1990s to install small utility lines with minimal disruptions. It has become the dominant method due to the global demand for high-speed data connectivity and streaming. To maintain its status, the industry has invested in machine improvements and advancements through the years.
The latest generation of compact drills includes onboard technology for simplified operations and quiet performance in urban environments. Today, there are many models and tooling options for contractors to choose from, regardless of the ground conditions they may face.
Check out these five advancements in the modern compact drilling market, and what the future looks like for HDD operators.
Onboard technology
Over the last decade, you may have heard about the benefits of common controls in drill lines. These controls simplify operator training and help with productivity for HDD crews, regardless of the drill used.
The technology enabling common controls on HDDs is the controller area network communication system, or “CAN bus” system. This system connects the drill’s functionality to the joystick controls at the operator station through a network of wires. When the operator commands the drill, the CAN bus system relays that information to the machine’s moving parts, reducing the operator’s input.
CAN bus technology is a significant improvement over early HDD generations that relied on switches to control individual functions. It simplifies drill operations, improves machine serviceability, and allows for expansion.
Another advantage of CAN bus systems is the reduced machine wiring. Traditional machines with rocker switches require multiple wires connected to each switch to control different functions. This large number of wires can complicate troubleshooting wiring issues. Vermeer HDDs in the S3 lineup — the D10x15 S3, D20x22 S3, D23x30 S3, D23x30DR S3, D24x40 S3, D40x55 S3, D40x55DR S3, D60x90 S3, D100x140 S3 and D220x500 S3 — have 30% fewer wires compared to those without a CAN bus system.
Automation and telematics
HDD common controls, powered by a CAN bus system, enhance drill functionality and allow for telematics integration.
Modern compact drills have automated features that simplify the learning process for new operators and reduce manual input during regular drilling operations. For instance, auto drilling enables operators to execute repetitive hand control movements with less effort, even in challenging ground conditions.
Additionally, most compact drills offer semi-automated rod loading capabilities, eliminating the need for manual rod addition and removal. Carriages equipped with encoders can also automatically decelerate and halt at specified points for smooth rod handling.
Using a CAN bus system, Vermeer drills can provide telematics data collection, which is crucial for proactive maintenance in the competitive compact drill market with thin project margins. Telematics gives contractors more control over planned maintenance intervals and, in some cases, allows them to gather additional productivity information from their drills.
Quiet operations
Significant progress has been made in improving the mechanical aspects of compact drills to provide a quieter operating experience. Manufacturers have prioritized reducing noise levels due to the extensive use of drills in residential and commercial areas. Quieter drill operations help minimize the disruption caused by utility installation work and help minimize the number of complaints from individuals residing or working near the work site.
Range of compact drill models
The capabilities and number of compact utility drills have increased in recent years while maintaining the same size. Previous generations of compact drills had a thrust/pullback range of 5,550 lb to 36,000 lb (2,052 kg to 16,329 kg) and spindle torque ranging from approximately 550 ft-lb to 5,000 ft-lb (746 Nm to 6,779 Nm).
Today’s compact drills, which are similar in size, offer a thrust/pullback range of 7,850 lb to 40,000 lb (3,563.9 kg to 18,143.7 kg) and spindle torque ranging from 900 ft-lb to 5,500 ft-lb (1,220 Nm to 7,458 Nm).
These higher performance specifications can be achieved without increasing the machines footprint. Manufacturers have focused on optimizing the specifications of the machine to align with the capability of the drill rod.
The engine horsepower rating on today’s compact drills has remained relatively unchanged compared to their predecessors. This right-sizing strategy has helped control fuel consumption without sacrificing performance.
In addition to standard single-rod HDDs, manufacturers have also developed compact dual rod drills. These drills have an inner rod that provides torque to the drill bit and an outer rod that offers steering capability and rotation torque for reaming. This combination delivers powerful downhole-cutting action and the flexibility to select the appropriate tooling for different ground conditions.
Dual rod drills provide the ability to drill rock with a user experience similar to a single rod drill and do not require the additional support equipment like other methods. They also offer greater versatility when drilling in soil conditions that vary significantly along the bore path. In addition, they allow contractors to work in tight spaces without the need for a larger drill, thus maintaining a small jobsite footprint.
Variety of tooling options available
Over the years, the options for HDD tooling have significantly expanded as the industry gained experience working on different ground conditions. Choosing the appropriate tooling for specific ground conditions can substantially enhance a crew’s productivity and extend the lifespan of a drill bit. Not sure which tooling will be right for your upcoming jobsite? Using Vermeer RigFitter can help simplify your tooling selections. For assistance in selecting tooling for the jobsite ahead, Vermeer RigFitter is a simple to use online tool to help you build and purchase your HDD tooling, all in one place. Once you have finished building your drill string, a configuration summary will be ready for you to complete your purchase. Soon afterwards, your HDD tooling and accessories will be delivered right to your door.
Several new non-torqued tooling connection systems like the QuickFire® connection system and QuickFire® HD system have been introduced to the market in recent years. These systems enable crews to work more efficiently by eliminating the need for threaded connections and breakout tongs. Operators simply align the geometric features with each other and install the dowel pins or collar and bolt. Many non-torqued tooling systems — like the Vermeer Ultra X3 system — allow crews to skip the housing removal process after the pilot bore, resulting in a smaller exit pit in certain applications.
Looking ahead
As the demand for compact directional drills continues to grow, manufacturers are dedicated to meeting the changing needs of contractors. They are actively exploring innovative ways to develop future HDD technology and ensure that upcoming generations of drills effectively address the challenges and requirements of tomorrow’s projects.
For more information on utility drills and HDD tooling, be sure to get in touch with your local Vermeer dealer.
Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in product engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing or distribution 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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