The new Astec EarthPro Geothermal 4550 (truck-mounted) and 4550X (track-mounted) drill rigs are designed to meet the specialized demands of geothermal system installations. Their superior field mobility, power, and state-of-the-art technology make them ideally suited to high-production drilling applications. During development, Astec Underground engineers conducted extensive field studies with goethermal system installers and incorporated suggestions by veteran drillers into the design of the EarthPro Geothermal drills. The design incorporates technology that has made Astec Underground an innovative leader in the horizontal directional drilling industry.
Reliable Dual rack & pinion design
Adapted from Astec HDD units, this proven design ensures dependable service. There are no chains, cables, or hydraulic cylinders to replace. All rack & pinion components are covered by a five-year warranty. The three-speed drive motors allow quick trip times with strong 45,000 lbs. pull up and 22,000 lbs. pull down. It provides safe, precise operation and features locking motors, which prevent carriage free falls.
Automated Pipe Loader System
A single operator can drill and trip out up to 600 feet (183 m) of pipe without winch assistance. Its pipe basket can hold up to 30 pieces of 20-foot (6.1 m) pipe in 3.5, 4, or 4.5 inch (89, 102, or 114 mm) diameter.
Safe and Efficient Hydraulic Key/Vise Table Design
The distinctive table design features a vise breakout system on top for strength, versatility, and safety. The key is located on the bottom for added safety and increases security for downhole tooling.
Central Ergonomic Controls
Dual multi-function joystick controls are mounted on a console, which is adjustable for height and angle to reduce operator fatigue. The multi-function LCD display provides information on drill operation in easy-to-understand terms.
Big Air
It carries a 1,050-cfm (27 cmm) Sullair compressor with a maximum pressure of 350 psi (24 Bar) to drill deeper and faster and to operate larger hammers.
CAT Power
The drill is powered by a Caterpillar C15 ACERT turbocharged diesel Tier 3 Stage IIIA engine that develops 580 horsepower at 2,100 rpm and 1,953 ft.-lbs. of torque at 1,400 rpm. All filters, fluid checks, and fill points are located on the same side of the drill near ground level to make monitoring and maintenance quick and easy.
Enhanced Maneuverability
A tethered two-speed ground drive system gives the operator better visibility when loading, unloading, and setting up over casing. CAT 315L tracks provide sure-footed traction and fast placement on the jobsite.
We think installers will really like the power and speed we have incorporated into this rig, says Bob McGinty, Astec EarthPro Geothermal product manager. Astec Underground products are known for their innovation, power, performance, and reliability. We believe the EarthPro Geothermal drills carry on this tradition.
Optional equipment includes a water injection pump, mud pump, tool lubricator and tank, operator seat, and a sand line winch.
