How to operate and maintain a water-based horizontal directional machine?
Aug 01, 2025| 1. Operational Procedure
Pre-construction Preparation
Geological Survey: Analyze soil type and underground obstacles, and design the drilling trajectory (entry angle ≤ 15°, exit angle ≤ 8°).
Equipment Inspection: Verify that the drilling rig hydraulic system, mud pump pressure (≥ 15 MPa), and guidance system signals are functioning properly.
Pilot Hole Drilling
Drill Bit Selection: Use an eccentric drill bit (elbow angle 5°-10°) for soft soils; use a mud motor drill bit for hard rock.
Guidance Control: Use the positioning system to adjust the drill bit angle in real time (deviation ≤ 0.5°). High-pressure mud is used to flush soft formations.
Reaming and Pullback
Reamer Matching: The diameter should be 20% larger than the pipe (e.g., a φ500mm pipe with a φ600mm reamer). Pipeline Pullback: Use a hydraulic propulsion device (thrust ≥ 700 tons) to assist with pullback and prevent pipeline jamming.
II. Maintenance Key Points
Daily Maintenance
Mud System: Replace the mud pump cups and gear oil every 400 hours and clean the sedimentation tank.
Drill Pipe Lubrication: Apply lithium-based grease to threaded connections to prevent rust and seizure.
Key Component Maintenance
Engine: Replace the diesel filter, air filter, and engine oil (SAE 15W-40) every 400 hours.
Hydraulic System: Check the cylinder seals. Repair is required if pressure fluctuations exceed 10%.
