Today’s utility contractors face critical challenges: finding and training skilled operators, minimizing downtime and maintaining profitability in competitive urban markets. The Vermeer D24 horizontal directional drill (HDD) helps address these fundamental needs while delivering the power and precision required for urban utility installation. Building on the robust foundation of its predecessor, the D23x30 S3, the D24 introduces automation and smart diagnostics that enhance operator capabilities and boost jobsite productivity.
The D24 stands out with its unique blend of advanced features tailored to tackle today’s drilling challenges. Its innovative automated rod exchange (ARE) system streamlines drilling for operators across the skill spectrum while reducing wear on key components. Improved onboard diagnostics offer real-time troubleshooting, helping minimize downtime. Compact yet powerful, with efficient operation, the D24 thrives in tight urban spaces. These enhancements, along with top-tier hydraulic components, establish the D24 as a significant advancement in utility installation technology.
Clint Recker, product manager for utility HDD equipment at Vermeer, explained the driving force behind the D24’s development: “We’ve listened closely to utility contractors and incorporated their feedback into this machine. The result is a drill that sets new standards for ease of operation and maintenance simplicity.”
ARE: A leap forward in drilling efficiency
A standout feature of the Vermeer D24 HDD is its automated rod exchange (ARE) system. This innovative technology increases onboarding velocity for new operators, reduces workload for skilled operators and maximizes wear part component life through highly controlled processes. With a single button push completing the entire rod changeout sequence, ARE eliminates up to 19 manual steps, streamlining operations and enhancing overall efficiency.
“ARE is a unique feature of the D24,” Recker noted. “By automating the rod exchange process, we’re helping contractors adapt to today’s labor market while maintaining consistent, reliable operation.”
The ARE system offers several key benefits:
- Consistent operation: The automated rod exchange process helps provide reliable, repeatable performance during rod changes.
- Reduced wear on components: The system’s precise movements help maximize the life of critical parts like sub savers and drill rods.
- Simplified training: New operators can quickly master rod exchanges, reducing the learning curve and boosting overall crew efficiency.
Enhanced onboard diagnostics: Helping increase uptime
The D24 features an advanced onboard diagnostic system accessible via the machine’s touchscreen display. This innovation represents a significant improvement over previous models, providing operators and technicians with comprehensive information about potential issues and step-by-step troubleshooting guidance.
Recker emphasized the importance of this feature: “We’re helping operators better understand what’s happening with their machine. When an issue arises, the system guides them through specific checks they can make — look at this, check that, try this.”
This enhanced diagnostic capability offers several advantages:
- Rapid issue identification: Operators can quickly pinpoint problems without the need for specialized equipment.
- Reduced diagnostic time: The system’s guidance helps minimize downtime.
- Improved communication: When dealer support is needed, the detailed information provided by the system helps technicians arrive better prepared to address the issue.
Vermeer drilling innovations: Engineered for urban utility installation
The D24 is designed to tackle the unique challenges of urban utility installation, balancing power and precision in a compact package. Key features include:
- Powerful performance: The D24 can handle diverse soil conditions, with 24,700 lb (110 kN) of max peak thrust/pullback and 3,080 ft-lb (4,176 Nm) of rotational torque.
- Low-noise operation: The D24 operates at just 88 dB(A) at the operator’s ear with a guaranteed sound power level of 100 dB(A), making it one of the quietest drills in its class. This low noise output is ideal for noise-sensitive urban environments, enhancing onsite communication and helping contractors meet local noise regulations.
- Improved mud flow: The 45-gpm (170-L/min) mud pump enhances drilling efficiency in various soil types.
- Flexible rod options: It offers a choice of 400 ft or 480 ft (122 m or 146 m) of 2.375-in Firestick® drill rod.
Drilling into the future of HDD
The Vermeer D24 HDD represents a significant step forward in horizontal directional drilling technology. By combining automated features, advanced diagnostics and proven performance in a compact package, Vermeer has created a machine that addresses the evolving needs of utility contractors working in challenging urban environments.
Recker concluded, “The D24 is designed to boost productivity on the jobsite. We believe contractors will experience streamlined operations and fast project completion times with this innovative HDD equipment.”
Visit vermeer.com or contact your local Vermeer dealer to learn how the Vermeer D24 HDD can transform your utility installation projects.
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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