The system's precise, on-target boring works effectively in soil types and jobsite conditions of all kinds. Its rod magazine, the largest in its class, holds 288 meters of drill rods and excels at installing gas lines, district heating, drinking water supply, and sewer pressure lines. The machine's horizontal directional drilling capabilities can handle installations up to 500 meters, even under rivers and water bodies.
This detailed analysis shows how the Grundodrill 28Nplus saves time through its technical breakthroughs and field results. Contractors and drilling professionals will learn about ways to improve their operational efficiency with this innovative machinery.
Technical Specifications and Power Analysis
The Grundodrill 28Nplus features a powerful Cummins Tier V engine that delivers 224kW of drive power [1]. This strong engine stands out because it converts 100% of its drive power into drilling force [2].
A sophisticated power management system showcases the machine's improved engine capabilities. The system runs with a maximum torque of 11,000 Nm [3] and lets you adjust torque and rotational speed smoothly. The engine runs at peak efficiency with a maximum spindle speed of 180 rpm [2].
Advanced Thrust System Features
The thrust system shows impressive capabilities with these key specs:
The machine's advanced thrust system works with exceptional precision and ensures smooth operation even in challenging conditions. On top of that, it includes a high-capacity bentonite pump that delivers 650 l/min drilling fluid volume [4].
Comparison with Grundodrill 18ACS
The 28Nplus and 18ACS show these most important performance differences:
The 28Nplus excels in alternating soil conditions and offers better operational efficiency than the 18ACS [5]. Its powerful engine and advanced thrust system make it ideal for large-diameter installations and tough ground conditions.
The machine weighs 19,200 kg [3] and its strong specs help it handle complex drilling projects while staying stable. It can manage pipe installations up to DN 710 [6], making it a versatile choice for many drilling applications.
Revolutionary Drilling Technology
The Grundodrill 28Nplus showcases advanced drilling technology with sophisticated control systems and automation. This machine features an accessible interface that manages multiple drilling functions through advanced control mechanisms [7].
Next-Generation Control Systems
Dual multi-function joysticks handle all drilling and driving operations in the control system [7]. The system provides three distinct operating modes:
Manual Mode: Operator controls all machine functions
Semi-automatic Mode: Features memory functions for rotation and feed
Fully Automatic Mode: Manages drilling, rod exchange, and lubrication [7]
Automated Drilling Optimization
Smart parameter management sets this automation system apart. The machine's automatic rod exchange system handles the 288-meter drill rod magazine efficiently [4]. The system adjusts these parameters automatically:
Parameter | Control Feature |
Thrust Force | Automatic adjustment based on ground conditions |
Rotation Speed | Continuous optimization for drilling efficiency |
Fluid Flow | Automated control for maximum performance |
The drilling rig delivers consistent performance by maintaining 650 l/min drilling fluid volume [4] and adjusting torque settings up to 11,000 Nm [4].
Real-time Performance Monitoring
A high-resolution touchscreen display shows immediate operational data [1]. The system provides:
Automatic bore data logging according to industry standards
Remote diagnosis capabilities with telemetric data transfer
Complete parameter setting and adjustment via integrated display [7]
Automatic bore mode operations enhance the machine's monitoring capabilities and ensure precise control over drilling parameters [1]. Operators can access performance metrics and maintain detailed drilling records through an advanced panel PC with internet connectivity [1].
Performance Metrics and Time Savings
Field data shows the Grundodrill's exceptional performance through its high-capacity bentonite pump that delivers up to 650 l/min drilling fluid volume [7]. This strong capability helps drill faster, especially when working with large upsizing diameters.
Drilling Speed Comparisons
The drilling system performs consistently in soil conditions of all types. Here are the key performance metrics:
Maximum drilling fluid pressure of 90 bar for optimal soil penetration
Fully automatic rod exchange system for minimal downtime
Operational Efficiency Data
Several key indicators highlight the machine's operational excellence. The highly efficient motor technology runs quietly with low emissions [1]. The system delivers:
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Resource utilization metrics reveal the Grundodrill's economic advantages. The savings come from:
The system's efficient engine technology uses less fuel [7] and cuts operating costs substantially. One project eliminated 30,000 truck movements [8], according to field data.
The most dramatic economic benefit shows up in natural capital costs. Traditional open construction methods cost €40,228, while trenchless construction with Grundodrill technology costs just €1,662 - only 4% of conventional methods [8].
The time savings are remarkable too. A recent broadband expansion project connected about 1,000 houses in just 11 hours, even with difficult ground conditions [8]. Another project completed both pilot bore and pipe installation in three days - traditional trenching methods were nowhere near this speed [9].
Case Studies and Field Results
Real-world applications show how well the Grundodrill 28Nplus performs in a variety of construction scenarios. Several projects highlight its ability to handle complex drilling jobs in different conditions.
Major Construction Project Outcomes
A seawater extraction project in Grömitz showed what this machine could do in tough marine environments. The team installed a 160mm OD transport pipeline from the beach to the Baltic Sea extraction point. The installation went 3.80 meters underwater [10], and divers connected the final parts of the 400-meter pipeline [2].
The Grundodrill tackled a challenging infrastructure project in Brisbane. The team needed to install a high-voltage cable bundle under Bulimba Creek river and a busy highway, stretching 208 meters [11]. Its compact design helped navigate tight construction spaces.
Contractor Success Stories
The 28Nplus has impressed field managers with its results. Site manager Guido Röhlich says, "For demanding applications, we rely on the powerful 28Nplus. With its consistently high drilling performance, we can reliably manage long bores with large diameters, even when things get tight along the way" [4].
Melbourne's Jelmac company specializes in horizontal directional drilling throughout Victoria. They picked the 28Nplus to boost their operations [4]. The machine comes with these advanced features:
Complete diagnosis of drilling systems via integrated display
Complete parameter adjustment capabilities
Professional geoservice team support [7]
Time Reduction Statistics
Project data shows the machine's efficiency clearly:
Automated features and resilient infrastructure make the system efficient. The machine works well in different soil types, thanks to precise soil data [7]. A complete service network keeps downtime low, so contractors can focus on their main tasks.
Implementation and Best Practices
The Grundodrill 28Nplus needs proper operating procedures and detailed training to work well. Operators can get the best drilling results in all conditions through multiple operating modes and an advanced control interface.
Optimal Operating Conditions
Two multi-function joysticks control all drilling and driving functions, making this machine excel at its job [7]. The control system gives operators three different modes to work with:
Mode Type | Features |
Manual | Complete operator control of all functions |
Semi-automatic | Memory functions for rotation and feed |
Fully automatic | Automated drilling, rod exchange, and cleaning |
The operator's cabin has panoramic glazing that gives clear views of the work area. A Grammer comfort seat XL with adjustable settings and heating makes operation comfortable [7]. The cabin locks into five different positions, which helps when working in tight spaces [5].
Maintenance Requirements
Good maintenance keeps the machine running at its best through:
Drilling fluid technique is a vital part of successful operations. Powerful mixing systems and pumps help maintain high drilling fluid performance [1]. The machine's design focuses on reducing wear and downtime while saving resources [5].
Operator Training Guidelines
Our detailed training program covers operation and maintenance thoroughly. Expert trainers teach both theory and hands-on applications [5]. The training includes:
Machine operation fundamentals
Soil analysis techniques
Drilling fluid management
Safety protocols
Emergency procedures
A specialized civil engineering team supports trenchless construction sites and helps with special projects through demonstrations [5]. New operators get constant supervision until they become proficient [13].
The fluid-assisted HDD method needs exact soil condition knowledge to succeed. Our dedicated geoservice team provides expert guidance for different soil types [7]. This integrated approach helps operators use the machine's full potential, including its 650 l/min drilling fluid volume [4] and 11,000 Nm torque output [3].
The machine puts user comfort and efficiency first. A panel PC with touchscreen gives operators a high-resolution color display and internet access [7]. This modern interface logs bore data automatically and allows remote diagnosis through telemetry data transfer [7].
Conclusion
The Grundodrill 28Nplus has proven to be a revolutionary solution in modern drilling operations. Its powerful 224 kW engine and advanced automation systems help deliver exceptional results in tough terrain and complex projects.
Recent case studies show remarkable time savings. Teams now complete projects in days instead of weeks, and costs are nowhere near traditional methods - reaching just 4% of conventional methods. The machine's sophisticated control systems work smoothly in manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic modes.
The Grundodrill 28Nplus's reliable specs and user-friendly features make it perfect for large-scale installations. A 288-meter rod magazine capacity combined with 11,000 Nm torque output will give a steady performance during long operations. Of course, complete operator training and proper maintenance are vital to maximize these capabilities.
Ground applications ranging from seawater extraction projects to high-voltage cable installations highlight this machine's adaptability and dependability. Positive contractor feedback and successful implementations prove that the Grundodrill 28Nplus tackles modern drilling challenges effectively.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key features of the Grundodrill 28Nplus that contribute to its efficiency? The Grundodrill 28Nplus features a powerful 224 kW Cummins Tier V engine, 11,000 Nm torque output, and a 280 kN thrust and pulling force. It also has a large 288-meter rod magazine and advanced automation systems for optimal drilling performance.
Q2. How does the Grundodrill 28Nplus compare to traditional drilling methods in terms of cost? The Grundodrill 28Nplus significantly reduces costs compared to traditional methods. In some cases, it can lower expenses to just 4% of conventional open trenching techniques, offering substantial savings on natural capital costs and resource utilization.
Q3. What types of projects is the Grundodrill 28Nplus best suited for? The Grundodrill 28Nplus excels in various applications, including gas lines, district heating, drinking water supply, and sewer pressure lines. It's particularly effective for large-diameter installations, challenging ground conditions, and projects requiring drilling beneath rivers and water bodies.
Q4. How does the control system of the Grundodrill 28Nplus enhance its operation? The Grundodrill 28Nplus features an advanced control system with dual multi-function joysticks and three operating modes: manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic. This system allows for intuitive operation, automated drilling optimization, and real-time performance monitoring.
Q5. What kind of time savings can be expected when using the Grundodrill 28Nplus? The Grundodrill 28Nplus can significantly reduce project completion times. For example, it has completed infrastructure installation for approximately 1,000 houses in just 11 hours and finished a pilot bore and pipe installation project in only three days, which is considerably faster than traditional methods.
References
[1] - https://www.lucasplantsales.ie/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Brochure-GRUNDODRILL-28Nplus-EN.pdf[2] - https://en.tracto.com/Brand Portal/Products/TRACTO_NODIG-SYSTEMS_EN.pdf[3] - https://www.lectura-specs.com/en/model/structural-and-civil-engineering-equipment/horizontal-directional-drills-tracto-technik/grundodrill-28-n-plus-11738148[4] - https://insider.tracto.com/en/Edition-3/GRUNDODRILL-28Nplus-A-TOP-PERFORMER[5] - https://shop.meerman.com/uploads/pdf/Grundodrill 28N plus.pdf[6] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkT5Y3v11_4[7] - https://en.tracto.com/Brand Portal/Products/GRUNDODRILL/Marketing-Material/28N/TRACTO_GRUNDODRILL-28NPLUS_EN.pdf[8] - https://insider.tracto.com/en/edition-2[9] - https://domka.gr/en/construction-of-a-seawater-withdrawal-point-with-the-grundodrill-28nplus/[10] - https://domka.gr/construction-of-a-seawater-withdrawal-point-with-the-grundodrill-28nplus/[11] - https://tracto.com/en/news/NODIG-technology-supports-Brisbane-Metro-infrastructure-project[12] - https://tracto.com/en/products/grundodrill[13] - https://www.tttechnologies.com/download/manuals/grundodrill-4x-manual.pdf
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