The Ditch Witch JT3020 Mach 1 is an extended-range, self-contained machine with 30,000 lbs. (133 kN) of pullback and the capacity to bore pilot holes up to 4.5 in. (11 cm) and backream diameters up to 12 in. (30.5 cm).

“[The JT3020 Mach 1] is everything our customers love about the JT2720 plus greater power, less noise, a better operator’s station, and an incredibly efficient mud pump,” said CMW’s Richard Levings, senior product manager of HDD equipment.

“The engine has a new cooling design that allows extraordinary horsepower [148 hp/110 kW] in a small, quiet package. Under normal operating conditions, the engine is quieter than some of our much-smaller HDD units. But the engine automatically turns up the horsepower when the drilling conditions become more challenging.”

The JT3020 actually combines the qualities of several Ditch Witch models, not just the JT2720. For example, it has the same kind of wrenches, pipeloader and stabilizers as the Ditch Witch JT1220 and JT2020 Mach 1.

“These field-proven components are familiar to our customers — so there’s minimal additional training involved — and now they can find it all on this one advanced machine,” Levings said.

Another feature is the machine’s fluid pump, which delivers 42-viscosity drilling fluid at 50 gal. per minute (189 Lpm).

The work station has been redesigned with a great deal of customer input.

“All of the information an operator needs during a bore, like pressure gauges and tracking information, is now right in his line of sight as he looks at the tool joint,” Levings said. “And we’ve really streamlined the information available to the operator. The JT3020 has one easy-to-read, menu-driven LCD screen that provides, among many things, real-time status of the pipe makeup and breakout cycle.”

The JT3020 also features a rack-and-pinion thrust drive with a double rack that is welded rather than bolted on, which prevents misalignment with the pinion. The double rack distributes the load equally, so there is less wear on the machine.

Supporting the entire operation is a redesigned anchor system that is designed to hold firm in virtually any soil condition. The anchor motors do not require disconnecting and provide as much torque as the largest Ditch Witch Jet Trac model, the JT8020.

Today's top stories

SEPTA Builds Major Transportation Center

National Equipment League — Heavy Equipment Operation as a Professional Sport — Launches Season Two

Washington Bridge in Providence, R.I., Undergoes Demolition

Construction Industry Optimistically Preparing for New Year Ahead

Capital Express Central Project Ramps Up in Texas

Nevada DOT Awards $54M Contract for U.S. 50 Renovation in Ely

Construction Set for $37M Wildlife Crossing in Wyoming

PCL Construction's Special Projects Division Sets 2024 Record With Nearly 270 New Projects