September 2014, Vol. 69, No. 9
Equipment Spotlight
Equipment Spotlight: Tracking Systems
Tracking systems by Ditch Witch, Digital Control Inc., Radiodetection/SPX Corp., Horizontal Technology, Underground Tools Inc., Sharewell HDD Services and INROCK.
Ditch Witch
The Ditch Witch TK Series HDD guidance system provides the performance, ease of use and versatility required to give directional drill contractors exceptional confidence they can get the job done, even in high-interference areas. The TK Tracker Series features dual locating methods (peak and null), a four-frequency beacon, a depth range of up to 110 feet and high-contrast graphics. Now through Dec. 31, trade in your old system and get up to 30 percent off a new Ditch Witch TK Series HDD guidance system. 800.645.6481, ditchwitch.com
Digital Control Inc.
The DigiTrak F2 locating system combines Ball-in-the-Box technology with rugged jobsite dependability. Using its two powerful frequencies and cable transmitter capabilities, it meets a myriad of jobsite challenges. Advanced features like off-track locating and Target Steering help you easily and accurately navigate the drill head even when obstacles prevent direct walkover locating. The F2 operates at depths up to 85 feet with 0.1 percent sensitive pitch without a wire. Roll offset is available when the 12 o’clock position of the drill head cannot be indexed to the transmitter. A 4-channel radio enables multiple F2 locators to be in the same vicinity and work up to distances of 1,800 feet plus, making it suitable for maxi rigs. The F2 supports 12 kHz DucTrak transmitters. 800.288.3610, digital-control.com
Radiodetection/SPX Corp.
The itrack system provides accurate walkover guidance information for HDD machines. The system comprises an itrack receiver, a DataView unit, one or more DataSondes and Radiodetection’s Borelog software. The itrack DataView uses a row of nine LEDs to provide remote steering information to the machine operator. The large LCD also displays real-time data transmitted from the DataSonde via the itrack Receiver. This provides machine operators with accurate information on tilt angle, roll position, depth, remote left/ right steering and alarm conditions. The DataSonde, when housed in the drill head, emits a locate signal and transmits information about its position and status, including tilt angle, roll position and temperature information. The Borelog software package allows the user to download drilling data stored in the itrack Receiver. 877.247.3797, radiodetection.com
Wireline Systems
Horizontal Technology
The DataTraX guidance system is accurate and automates records with ease. DataTraX offers the protection of detailed documentation of lines drilled in position with the HDD industry’s most accurate guidance and tracking method. DTX system can often exceed, plus or minus 1 percent of the depth. The recorded data can be converted to auto-cad and is GIS compatible. Perhaps the best feature is that there are no footage fees, saving the contractor many thousands of dollars annually. 888.556.5511, horizontaltech.com
Underground Tools Inc.
Underground Tools’ sonde housing showcases a ¾-inch thick access door on the sonde housing for superior protection of valuable electronics. The thick housing features a slightly larger body diameter for greater wear resistance and durability. The housing incorporates a 7-hole Vermeer pattern that is compatible with UTI pilot bits, including UTI Gold Series bits or Vermeer pilot bits. Custom adapters allow the housing to be used with all makes and models of drill rigs. 866.488.3478. undergroundtools.com
Sharewell HDD Services
Sharewell’s Magnetic Guidance System (MGS) is a directional steering system designed for HDD applications that provides both directional survey information and annular pressure while drilling. The system operates with TruTracker to provide drilling information including inclination; tool face; azimuth; position; temperature; and annular pressure. The system can be operated with or without the pressure sensor. When operating with pressure, a special pressure sub is required for the bottom hole assembly. Steering tool components include the probe, drillers console, interface, computer and printer. 281.288.2560, sharewellhdd.com
INROCK
ABIA is a sophisticated tool that is embedded directly into INROCK’s XTM 8- and 6 ¾-inch mud motors. Absolute inclination is measured at the bit and transmitted via EM transmission to the ParaTrack 2 probe located in the drill collar behind the motor. Inclination is then monitored by the RivCross software. Comparing ABIA inclination with the inclination of the ParaTrack 2 probe, the Guidance Engineer can monitor any deviation or deflection issues. Fractured formation can cause deflections in drilling, with the ABIA the deflection is seen and corrected before trouble strikes. 713.690.5600, inrock.com
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