Ditch Witch® Next Generation AT40 All Terrain Directional Drill Optimizes Downhole Performance in Hard Rock

Advanced drilling system provides industry-leading drilling performance, agile steering and enhanced operator control.

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To enhance utility contractors’ efficiency while drilling and steering in hard rock, Ditch Witch®, a Charles Machine Works Company, has released the new AT40 All Terrain horizontal directional drill (HDD). The machine features an advanced, two-pipe All Terrain drilling system that provides 33 percent more torque than competitive units.

The newly optimized All Terrain drilling system includes multiple patent-pending designs that improve downhole operation. An inner-rod design provides a flush system that improves tool-joint durability and steering in hard rock conditions. To further improve steering and optimize fluid flow, a reliable All Terrain connection reduces the risk of collar damage.

“Maximized drilling performance and more efficient control while steering make the AT40 All Terrain an industry-leading, reliable and powerful machine,” said Seth Matthesen, Ditch Witch senior product manager, horizontal directional drills. “The unit not only boosts productivity and power, but leverages next-generation features to provide valuable operational insights and keep operators productive, profitable, and comfortable on each job.”

The All Terrain system also features an enhanced reliable RockMaster® housing for improved longevity and reduced maintenance. The modular design makes the housing adaptable to two different sizes of drill bit, allowing a 2.875 and 3.5 regular api connection. And, a patented floating-spindle design makes it easier and more cost effective to replace. The new housing also features an industry-exclusive, double-layer seal with high-capacity bearings for increased downhole life, superior reliability and minimal maintenance. This design feature increases service time intervals – time intervals are doubled compared to previous models.

The AT40 All Terrain directional drill is available with durable pipe options to meet all unique jobsites, including the patent-pending All Terrain Flush, Power Pipe® HD Fluid Miser® II, Power Pipe HD Unlined and Forged HIWS1 pipes.

Further enhancing productivity and providing best-in-class power, the new All Terrain drill leverages the same next-generation features of the standard JT40 model. A 160-gross-hp, Tier 4 Cummins® diesel engine offers 40,000 pounds of thrust and pullback. Improved drilling efficiency is provided by a two-speed, rotational drive system that produces 5,500 ft-lb of torque. The drill is also equipped with a 70-gpm, 1,100-psi mud pump to increase fluid flow from the pump to the swivel.