Vermeer has unveiled its newest generation of maxi-rig drills with the introduction of the 550,000-pound (249,475.8-kg) D550 horizontal directional drill (HDD). This powerful large drill leads its class with 100,000 foot-pounds (135,581 Nm) of torque, advanced telematics, and smart onboard technology and diagnostic information.

According to Vermeer, the D550 crawler-mounted drill will help crews work efficiently installing large-diameter products, including oil and gas pipelines, water lines and high-voltage electrical transmission lines at long distances.

 “This latest generation maxi-rig drill delivers more compared to older Vermeer models,” said Clint Recker, trenchless product manager at Vermeer. “In addition to the D550 drill’s class-leading torque, it can deliver a steady, ultra-slow speed control for working in challenging hard rock, as well as rotation speed for boring in challenging clay conditions. Its smart onboard technology gives the operator and service technicians greater access to information.”

Vermeer developed and integrated new HDD technology into the Vermeer D550, in an attempt to deliver an optimal operational and service experience for contractors.

The drill’s onboard telematics gives drill operators and service technicians access to important diagnostics information.

Operationally, the D550 controls have three different auto drilling modes—rotation, thrust and speed.

 The D550 ultra-slow speed technology delivers precise thrust control to allow drill operators to regulate weight-on-bit pressure for optimal cutting action and maximum tooling life.

In addition to new technology, the D550 also features mechanical enhancements, including a full travel vise, engineered hydraulic transmission and quiet engine.

The maxi-rig’s full travel vise can be positioned up and down the rack as needed for making/breaking tooling and optimizing efficiency during casing installation.

The hydraulic circuit on the D550 delivers the peak amount of torque at high rotational speeds while system pressures remain low to help maximize component life.

Also, the drill runs quiet, which helps keep jobsite sound levels down and reduces the need for sound barriers when working in urban areas.

Beginning with the D550, new Vermeer drills will feature simplified model numbering that represents each unit’s respective drill class. The D550 gets its name from its 550,000-pound (249,475.8-kg) operational thrust/pullback ability.