Vermeer has launched its new D24S horizontal directional drill (HDD) for customers in international developing markets. The machine will be available in select countries across Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, and emerging European nations.
The D24S has been developed based on the Vermeer D24x40 Series II Navigator flagship drill, which is used by contractors around the world for installing small to mid-size underground utilities. The new D24S is an updated model that carries the essence of its predecessor with contemporary improvements. This latest drill is designed to be fast, precise, powerful and reliable day-in and day-out.
Featuring a compact footprint, the D24S can tackle jobs in tight, urban spaces. It measures 6.14 m in length and 2.26 m in transport width. Paired with 5,695 Nm of rotational torque and 10.9 t of thrust and pullback, the drill provides an excellent power-to-footprint ratio, speed and controllability to get through tough conditions.
The D24S is compatible with both V-Rod and Firestick for superior drill rod longevity and high-torque applications. Additionally, the large inner rod diameter allows superior drilling fluid flow for proper cuttings evacuation during drilling or backreaming.
The open-top vise design improves visibility of the rod joints from the operator station/cab as well as simplifies vise dies exchange. The low-to-the-ground design also minimises rod exposure, protects the equipment and enhances work efficiency. Furthermore, the use of rubber pads on steel tracks minimises jobsite ground disruption.
Equipped with common controls shared with all Vermeer drills, the D24S simplifies operations and optimises training time. The AutoDrill and Auto Carve systems help operators manage difficult ground conditions while maintaining drilling consistency.
With Auto Carve, the operator can fine-tune thrust and steering in hard ground conditions. Meanwhile, the AutoDrill function is programmed to facilitate operations where a constant thrust/pullback and rotation pressures are needed.
Other highlights of the D24S include an optional wireless remote control for ease of use and manoeuvrability, as well as a climate-controlled cab option that offers good visibility, allowing the operator to easily monitor machine operations in comfort.