An underground horizontal drilling machine is a piece of heavy equipment used to install pipes, cables, and conduits without digging open trenches. This machine drills a pilot hole along a preset path beneath the surface. Then it enlarges the hole and pulls the product pipe back through. This method is commonly called HDD, which stands for horizontal directional drilling.
Contractors use this machine to install water lines, gas pipelines, fiber optic cables, and electrical conduits. It works well under roads, rivers, railroads, and buildings. The main advantage is that you do not need to dig up the surface. This saves time, reduces labor costs, and protects the environment.
YG manufactures a wide range of HDD rigs for different project sizes. Our machines offer thrust force from 51 kN to 320 kN, with crossing lengths up to 300 meters. If you have a pipeline project in mind, contact YG for the right machine.
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Parameters of the HDD Rig Machine-OEM Support
YG offers several models. Each model is designed for specific project requirements. Here is a comparison of our popular models.
| 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 |
These specifications are key when choosing a machine. Consider the pipe diameter, soil type, and crossing length.
How Does an Underground Horizontal Drilling Machine Work?
The working process of an underground horizontal drilling machine happens in three main stages. Each stage is essential for a successful installation.
Pilot Boring
The machine drills a small hole along the planned path. The drill head has a steering tool. The operator uses this tool to guide the drill. They can change direction to avoid obstacles or follow a curved path. This step sets the exact route for the pipe.
Reaming
After the pilot hole is complete, the drill string is pulled back. A reamer tool is attached to the end. The reamer is pulled back through the hole to enlarge it. The operator may do this several times. Each pass uses a larger reamer. This creates a hole big enough for the final pipe.
Pullback
The final pipe or cable is attached to the reamer. The directional drilling equipment pulls the pipe back through the enlarged hole. The pipe is installed without any open trenching. This is the final step of the installation.
The entire process is controlled from the surface. The operator monitors the drill head position using advanced guidance systems. This ensures the bore path stays on target.
Underground Horizontal Drilling vs. Traditional Open-Cut
How is an underground horizontal drilling machine different from traditional excavation? The answer is simple.
Surface Disruption
- Open-cut requires a trench along the entire pipe route.
- HDD uses small entry and exit pits. The surface between them remains untouched.
Traffic Impact
- Open-cut blocks roads and creates traffic jams.
- HDD works under roads without blocking traffic. This is ideal for urban areas.
Environmental Impact
- Open-cut disturbs soil and creates dust and noise.
- HDD produces less noise and dust. It protects trees, rivers, and ecosystems.
Cost and Time
- Open-cut costs more in restoration and labor.
- HDD reduces labor and eliminates restoration costs. The project is completed faster .
For most modern utility projects, the HDD drill rig is the preferred choice.
What are the Top Applications of Directional Drilling Equipment?
Directional drilling equipment is used in many industries. Its ability to go under obstacles makes it very versatile.
- Telecommunications: Installing fiber optic cables in crowded cities. The machine can go under busy streets without disturbing traffic .
- Water and Sewer: Replacing old water lines without digging up yards or parking lots.
- Oil and Gas: Laying pipelines under rivers and highways.
- Electric Power: Installing underground power conduits.
- Environmental Projects: Crossing protected wetlands without damaging the ecosystem.
Any project that requires a pipe or cable underground is a candidate for HDD. The machine works in soil, clay, sand, and even rock.
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How Much Does Directional Drilling Cost?
The cost of using an underground horizontal drilling machine depends on several factors. You need to consider these when planning your budget.
Soil Conditions
Rock is harder to drill than sand. Drilling in rock takes longer and costs more. The machine may need special tools.
Bore Length and Diameter
Longer bores cost more. Larger diameter pipes require larger holes. The machine needs more power for large holes.
Project Type
Residential projects are usually shorter. Commercial projects are longer and more complex. Commercial projects cost more.
Location
Access to the site affects cost. If the rig is hard to move in, costs go up.
Reaming Passes
You may need several reaming passes to enlarge the hole. Each pass adds time and cost.
In general, HDD saves money compared to open-cut. You do not need to restore roads or landscapes. The project finishes faster.
Directional Drilling Equipment Near Me Manufacturers
Looking for drilling equipment near me? YG connects you with trusted global contractors who use our underground horizontal drilling machine equipment. Our partner network serves cities across the world and beyond.
These contractors bring years of field experience. They know local soil conditions and permit rules. They use genuine YG HDD drill rig models for every job. Each operator receives factory training from our team.
Why work with a YG-recommended contractor?
- Skilled operators who know the directional drilling equipment inside out
- Access to genuine YG spare parts and service support
- Proven track record in utility, telecom, and pipeline projects
- Turn-key solutions from planning to cleanup
Whether your project is large or small, we can find the right HDD rig for you. Contact YG for a referral today.
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FAQ: Common Questions About Underground Horizontal Drilling
Q1: What is the maximum length an underground horizontal drilling machine can bore?
It depends on the model. The YG-200LS can cross up to 300 meters. Larger rigs can go over 1000 meters. The soil type also affects the maximum length.
Q2: Can HDD machines drill through rock?
Yes, some models are designed for rock. They need special drill bits and more torque. Check the machine’s specs. Not every rig is made for hard rock.
Q3: How long does an HDD project take?
It varies. A small residential job might take one day. A large commercial project can take several weeks. Planning and soil conditions are the main factors.
Q4: What pipes are suitable for HDD installation?
PE (polyethylene) pipe is the most common. Steel pipe is also used. The pipe must be strong enough to withstand the pullback force.
Q5: Is HDD more expensive than open-cut?
Usually, HDD is cheaper in the long run. You save on labor, restoration, and time. The initial setup might be similar, but you avoid the cost of fixing the surface.
