With dual-rod technology in a compact machine design, the new Vermeer D23x30DR S3 Navigator horizontal directional drill (HDD) can maneuver efficiently through rock in congested cities, busy neighborhoods or tight jobsites, the company announced. Featuring a class-leading narrow footprint and a weight of 16,500 pounds, the D23x30DR S3 is the lightest rock drill on the market and is well-suited for fiber, electrical, gas and water installation in hard rock, as well as other challenging ground conditions.
“For utility installation work in rocky soil conditions, HDD contractors traditionally had to choose between using a larger horizontal directional drill, bringing in more equipment so they could use an air hammer or go slowly and potentially sacrifice productivity,” says Tod Michael, product manager of trenchless products for Vermeer. “The new D23x30DR S3 is a better option for doing small-diameter installation bores in rocky ground conditions. Its narrow profile and light footprint allow it to fit in small or congested areas and helps reduce risk of damaging sidewalks or turf while maneuvering the drill into position. Also, the new PG5 quick pullback grapple helps reduce the labor involved in removing a drill head before pullback."