Newly designed Ditch Witch HDD features 40 percent more downhole horsepower

Ditch Witch has added an upgraded horizontal directional drill to its underground equipment product line. Designed to increase efficiency for fibre and other underground utility jobs, the JT21 is an upgrade from the JT20. The new drill delivers up to 40 percent more downhole horsepower than its predecessor and 35 percent faster carriage speed than any drill in its class, says the company.

Improved power, speed, and stability

The JT21 features 21,000 pounds of pullback, 20,000 pounds of thrust, and 2,250 foot-pounds of torque, allowing crews to complete installations at a faster pace in a variety of soil conditions. Also, a new design and lower center of gravity increases stability.

"Any operator who puts the JT21 drill to work will quickly see why it's the most powerful drill in its class," says Britton Yunker, HDD product manager for Ditch Witch. "But it's not sheer power alone that sets the JT21 drill apart from other drills in its class. It also incorporates several productivity-boosting enhancements, making it an ideal choice for contractors whether they're looking to replace an aging drill or make crews more effective."                                                                            

JT21 features that help boost productivity and ease operations:

• Improved hydraulic efficiencies and a direct-drive rotation motor delivering more downhole horsepower.
• Virtually Assisted Make-up (VAM) technology provides software-driven make-up and breakout of pipe to simplify operators' jobs and help prevent pipe-thread damage to extend pipe longevity.
• A proven pipe-loading system provides the horizontal-style pipe loading customers asked for and helps optimize efficiency and uptime on jobsites.
• An enhanced operator station provides a common display with other HDD platforms and multi-mode joysticks that allow operators to choose their preferred control style, minimizing training needs across multiple platforms.
• Advanced telematics give operators access to a wide range of drill health and operating parameters, helping them make quick, informed decisions while improving overall jobsite management and reducing maintenance.
• A larger displacement pump, generating 35 gpm and running at a lower rpm, increases the life of the pump and wearables.