THE first ever TRACTO GRUNDODRILL 28N Plus has been delivered in the UK to Kirkcaldy-based FCH HDD Trenchless Solutions.
Described as a true powerhouse, the GRUNDODRILL 28N Plus boasts 224 kW of engine power and the machine has 288m of on-board rods designed to make the most of the 28-tonne (63k lbs) pullback and push.
Featuring 11,000Nm (8,113 ft lbs) of continuously variable torque and a 650 l/min (172 gpm) mud pump complete the specs, the purchase was made just a couple years after the company’s initial purchase of a GRUNDODRILL 18ACS ‘King of Rock’.
The latter has been powering its way through challenging applications throughout the north of England and the entirety of Scotland over the past few of years. The new machine offers FCH the opportunity to tackle a wider variety of ground conditions and the MA07 Mixing Unit bought to accompany the 18ACS will be shared across both machines going forwards.
Fraser Hart, MD of FCH HDD Trenchless Solutions, said, “TRACTO machinery provides the strength and performance we need for the arduous terrain we have up here in the north. The units are exceptionally productive and our operators particularly appreciate the simplicity of operation. As with all the equipment we buy ease of maintenance is essential for minimal downtime. Both TRACTO machines have excellent access for all regular checks and servicing.”
The drill has already completed its first job which was the installation of 100m of 315mm diameter pipe under the river Urie for Scottish Water. The machine successfully drilled through sand and gravel, cobbles and soft rock to install the pipe four metres under the river bed.
