Vermeer has expanded its line of utility-installation equipment with the new compact Vermeer D8x12 horizontal directional drill, sized for working in tight spaces (fits through a 36-inch gate), says Vermeer, and suited for underground construction applications such as small service installations, including gas distribution, power, water, and telecommunication networks.
Using a 48-horsepower Kohler diesel engine, the D8x12 provides 1,000 lb.-ft. of spindle torque, 7,850 pounds of thrust/pullback, and features basic, hydraulic-pilot-joystick controls and minimal electrical components—simplifying operation and routine maintenance, says the company.
Travel speed (forward) is 2.8 mph to facilitate repositioning, and the unit is designed for low sound levels: 85 dB(A) at the operator’s ear and “guaranteed sound power” of 104 dB(A). Drill-rod options include a 1.31-inch-diameter Firestick for tight steering and a 1.66-inch-diameter rod for more demanding ground conditions and longer bore lengths. The D8x12 also can share tooling with other Vermeer models, including the D6x6, D7x11 Series II, D9x13 S3, and D10x15 S3 Navigator.
