Vermeer unveiled its D220x300 Navigator horizontal directional drill at the recent 2013 International Construction & Utility Equipment Exposition in Kentucky.

“As energy demands continue to grow—and with increased exploration of unconventional natural gas reserves, the scope of work changes—HDD contractors require a drill that can help bridge the gap,” said Jon Heinen, Vermeer pipeline business segment manager. “With the shale play, the industry is changing and contractors need equipment that can help fulfill these changing specifications.”

The company calls the HDD a “maxi rig in a self-contained drill.” The D220x300 features 240,000 pounds of thrust/pullback and 30,000 foot-pounds of rotational torque. Vermeer calls it the most versatile HDD in its class.

The rig’s power makes it ideal for large pipeline projects, and its 27-foot-by-8.5-foot footprint means it’s small enough for urban utility work. The D220x300 HDD is self-reliant, with an onboard operator cabin, mud pump, rod stager and optional crane, reducing the need for support equipment on smaller jobsites. The Weatherford triplex mud pump features a 330 gpm capacity and flow enough to support large-diameter pipe pullback. The optional crane mounts on either side of the drill to easily manage rod or heavy tooling. A sliding-arm stager boosts boring efficiency by staging up to five rods at a time.

The D220x300 has the same control platform as other drills in Vermeer’s Navigator series, including ergonomic electronic joysticks to cut operator fatigue. A common control platform also reduces training hours for fleet customers. The D220x300 also features a remote tracking feature and optional wireline tensioning system.

Check with local Vermeer global dealers for availability.

 Vermeer Corporation, based in Pella, Iowa, serves utility drilling, surface mining and pipeline drilling markets. The company also works in agriculture, biomass and other equipment areas. For more information, visit www.vermeer.com or email salesinfo@vermeer.com.