HDD Rig

HDD rig, also commonly referred to as a horizontal directional drilling rig, is a powerful, sophisticated machine engineered to create precisely controlled bore paths underground without the need for continuous open trenches. Horizontal directional drilling machine drills a pilot hole along a predetermined design path, then progressively enlarges this hole through reaming passes to the required diameter. Finally, the product pipe or conduit is pulled back through the enlarged bore, completing the installation. The HDD machine provides the necessary thrust rotational torque and pullback force to accomplish these tasks efficiently and accurately.

HDD Rig Specifications

Model	YG-50LS	YG-130LS	YG-150LS	YG-200LS
Weight	3650kg	4750kg	4700kg	8800kg
Max. Thrust & Pullback Force	51kN	135kN	150kN	205kN
Max. Torque	2235N·m	4500N·m	4500N·m	6500N·m
Engine Power	43kw	93kw	93kw	113kw
Walking Speed	2.5km/h	2.5-4.5km/h	2.5-4.5km/h	2.5-4km/h
Entry Angle	14°-17°	12°-22°	12°-22°	12°-22°
Drill Rod Size	φ42*1800mm	φ50/φ60*3000mm	φ60*2000mm	φ60*3000mm
Suggest Reaming Diameter	≤φ400mm	≤φ700mm	≤φ700mm	≤φ800mm
Dimension(L*W*H)	3870*1300*1470mm	5470*1670*2040mm	4200*1700*2140mm	6750*2050*2400mm
Max. Thrust & Pullback Speed	61m/min	36m/min	46m/min	60m/min
Max. Rotation Speed	215r/min	193r/min	193r/min	230r/min
Max. Mud Flow	75L/min	200L/min	180L/min	250L/min
Max. Mud Pressure	6Mpa	8Mpa	8Mpa	8Mpa
Max. Climbing Gradient	17°	16°	17°	17°
Drill Rod Box Capacity	44pcs(4*11)	48pcs(4*12)	56pcs(4*14)	48pcs(4*12)
Suggest Crossing Length	≤100m	≤200m	≤200m	≤300m

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Advantages of Using A Horizontal Directional Drilling Machine

1. Minimal Surface Disruption
   HDD rigs eliminate the need for extensive excavation, preserving landscapes, roads, and existing infrastructure. This is particularly critical in urban areas, historical sites, and environmentally protected zones.
2. Enhanced Safety
   By reducing open trenches, HDD technology lowers the risk of accidents, injuries, and workplace hazards. Operators work in controlled environments, away from traffic and unstable excavation pits.
3. Environmental Friendliness
   HDD drilling generates less noise, dust, and carbon emissions compared to conventional methods. The closed-loop mud system also prevents contamination of soil and water bodies.

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How Do HDD Rigs Work?

The HDD process involves three primary stages: pilot boring, reaming, and pullback. Each stage is critical to ensuring the success of the project.

1. Pilot Boring
   The operation begins with the drilling of a small-diameter pilot hole along the planned path. Operators use the guidance system to steer the drill head, adjusting the angle and direction to navigate around obstacles or follow a predefined curve. This stage establishes the precise trajectory for the final installation.
2. Reaming
   Once the pilot hole is complete, the drill string is removed, and a reamer tool is attached. The reamer enlarges the hole to the required diameter, gradually increasing the size in stages. Drilling fluid continues to circulate, removing debris and stabilising the borehole walls.
3. Pullback
   In the final stage, the product pipe or conduit is attached to the reamer. The drill string is pulled back through the enlarged borehole, simultaneously installing the infrastructure. This method ensures minimal disturbance to the surface and surrounding environment.

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Applications of HDD Machines

• Telecommunications and Fibre Optics
  Ideal for installing high-speed fibre networks in densely populated areas without disrupting traffic or existing utilities.
• Water and Sewer Lines
  Used to install pipelines under roads, rivers, and existing structures, reducing the need for open trenches.
• Oil and Gas Pipelines
  Suitable for long-distance pipeline installation, especially in environmentally sensitive areas.
• Electric Power Cables
  HDD rig allows underground installation of power lines with minimal environmental disturbance.
• Railway and Highway Crossings
  Enables utility installation across transportation corridors without interrupting services.

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Maintenance and Safety Considerations

1. Routine Inspections
   Daily checks on hydraulic systems, mud pumps, drill strings, and control systems help prevent unexpected breakdowns.
2. Proper Mud Management
   Drilling fluid must be properly mixed, circulated, and disposed of to avoid environmental contamination and equipment damage.
3. Operator Training
   Skilled operators are essential for safe and efficient operation. Training should include machine controls, emergency procedures, and bore path planning.
4. Use of Personal Protective Equipment
   Operators and crew members should always wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets, gloves, and protective footwear.
5. Emergency Preparedness
   Projects should include contingency plans for underground obstructions, equipment failure, or fluid loss.