Despite only being introduced to the Australasian market earlier this year, TRACTO’s new and adaptable range of GRUNDODRILLS are already shaking up the HDD market. The xCS series of machines are the culmination of years of detailed German engineering, and combine unparalleled power with innovative technology.

The arrival of these machines has been  years, if not decades in the making, and represents a landmark step forward in horizontal directional drilling (HDD) engineering. TRACTO-TECHNIK’s products are constantly being refined based on end user feedback, and the new range of GRUNDODRILL fluid-assisted and rock drilling machines are the ultimate reflection of this ideology.

Consisting of six machines with performance ratings between 60 and 280 kN, the rigs in the xCS range can be adapted to be used as a Jet Condition System (JCS) for excavating in conventional soils with normal rods, or as an All Condition System (ACS) using twin-tube rods to navigate through rock.

The customisable and adaptable nature of the machines is the result of years of research and development at TRACTO’s headquarters in Lennestadt, Germany, where the machines are also manufactured, using best-in-class processes and materials, before being shipped around the world, including to Australia and New Zealand. 

After making the more than 15,000 km journey from the manufacturing hub in Germany to Australia, one of the new GRUNDODRILLs will take centre stage on TRACTO’s 54 m2 exhibition stand at No-Dig Down Under. Having the machine on display gives contractors the opportunity to see the rig and its features up close, as well as speak to the company’s team who provide clients with support and servicing capabilities for the life of the asset.

TRACTO will also have a number of interactive installations on site, demonstrating how the machine functions and is controlled. This illustrates how the machines have been designed to keep the complex and unique demands of the HDD process front of mind, making them adaptable, versatile and efficient.

As a result of the modular design, the GRUNDODRILLs can be configured to the specifications or restrictions of the market in which they’re operating. This includes numerous options for customisation according to application and comfort.

The majority of all rig functions are controlled via a centralised touch screen while integrated cameras give the user 360° visibility of the rig from the comfort of the refined cabin. This enables ergonomic conditions for the user, limits fatigue and frees them up to focus on the task at hand: drilling. 

Remote-controlled drilling is also possible with the new machines, with operations conveniently controlled and monitored from outside the operator’s cabin using a specially designed remote-control unit. In combination with the intelligent cameras, this allows for the full control of the entire drilling rig.

The 130JCS/ACS features a Cummins Tier V engine, equipped with variable torque and speed adjustment for maximum rotational performance and productivity. In addition, the machines are capable of fully automatic drilling operations, including drill rod exchange.

The machines’ performance and customisation are also backed up by TRACTO’s range of high-quality mixing systems, meaning the machines can operate for longer periods without disruption.

A number of contractors in the region are the first to use these new GRUNDODRILLS and are already reaping the benefits of the additional power and functionality. As with all TRACTO machines, they are also supported by the best servicing, spare parts and training the industry has become accustomed to from the company. 

The company considers itself “more than a dealer” and has a goal to create and maintain meaningful and lasting relationships with its clients. This includes guiding customers through all stages of the product process, from purchase to training and after-sales support, as well as giving clients access to technical and engineering support in real time. 

“If you’re a drilling or construction contractor looking to improve efficiency and performance on the job site, visiting us at No-Dig is an opportunity to see these machines up close and personal,” says TRACTO Australia Managing Director Jeff Rose.

“There’s a handful of contractors who have already taken delivery of the new GRUNDODRILL. With stock available on the ground at our Queensland head office ready to be delivered, there are opportunities to join them.

“Make sure you visit stand 50, meet our team and learn more about how this machine is shaking things up.”

For more information visit TRACTO-TECHNIK. 

This article feature in the June edition of Trenchless Australasia. 

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