
In horizontal directional drilling (HDD) applications, rotary bits are driven either by mechanical rotation of the drill string or by a drilling-fluid-powered motor, or "mud motor." The All Terrain system is in the former category, a mechanical motor system that is designed to transfer more power to the bit than any other rock-drilling system in its class. Its shaft-within-a-pipe design features a strong, hex-shaped rod that turns inside an outer pipe. The inner hex shaft works as a mechanical motor that drives the bit during the bore; the outer pipe thrusts the bit forward, steers the drill string, and works to transmit full machine torque during backreaming.
A mechanical motor system greatly expands the capacity to drill in tough ground conditions, and most bores are accomplished with minimal drilling fluid flow, reducing job site cleanup time and expense. This contrasts with mud motor systems, which require very high drilling fluid flows. These high flow rates—and the pressures required for effectively driving the bit—can erode the borehole or lead to unwanted drilling fluid returns on the ground surface or into a body of water.
In addition to patented All Terrain technology, two other exclusive features distinguish the JT100 All Terrain. One is a dual-pivot drill frame that allows for steeper entry angles without raising the tracks off the ground. This improves machine stability and keeps the operator’s station level. The other is the machine's assisted-makeup feature that automatically adjusts carriage thrust speed with rotation when making up and breaking out drill pipe, which minimizes wear on pipe threads and extends the life of the drill pipe. Ditch Witch drill pipe is already the longest-lasting pipe in the industry, thanks to a special manufacturing process that results in greater strength and flexibility.
The power of the JT100 All Terrain allows for the addition of an optional onboard crane that is used to load and unload pipe boxes, anchor the unit, and handle downhole tools, especially drill pipe. This saves the contractor significant time and money by reducing the need to acquire and transport additional support equipment, such as an excavator.
Other features of the JT100 All Terrain include a fully enclosed cab, cruise control, and an integrated electronic guidance system that provides real-time tracking of the bore.
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