A horizontal drilling project involves three key steps: drilling, reaming, and finally placing the pipe into the bored tunnel. At this stage, a pipe must be pushed or pulled through a narrow underground space. This process is challenging and risky when done manually.
How does the Pipe Pusher work?
The Pipe Pusher is a hydraulic attachment fitted directly to the excavator arm. It grips the PE pipe, allowing the operator to position it and push it forward in a controlled movement, all from the excavator cab. A built-in hydraulic safety stop helps maintain a secure grip without applying excessive pressure that could damage the pipe. And if the pipe meets an obstruction, the operator can reverse the movement and pull it back.
The result? Less manual handling, fewer people working close to moving pipe and more control over the installation process. The attachment is quick to mount and can be used with most excavators from 8 to 35 tonnes, depending on the model.
More then just Horizontal Directional Drilling
SiteTec founder Corné Willemsen regularly visits jobsites where he sees opportunities to make pipe handling easier. And the Pipe Pusher is a good example. Its applications extend well beyond horizontal directional drilling. Think of a PE welding contractor handling long, welded pipe sections. Or a pipeline contractor inserting new PE pipe into an existing main during a renovation project. The Pipe Pusher can also be used for sliplining, pipe manoeuvring and re-rounding.
That makes it a useful tool for HDD contractors, PE pipe welding companies, pipeline installers and utility contractors working on water and gas networks. Different types of jobs, but with the same challenge: getting the pipe into position safely and efficiently.
A practical addition to your excavator
The SiteTec Pipe Pusher is available in models for pipe diameters of 200, 450, 650 and 850 mm. Depending on the model and application, it offers:
- Controlled pipe handling: hydraulically operated, with a safety stop to help protect the PE pipe.
- Less manual handling: the excavator operator controls the attachment from the cab.
- Reversible operation: pull the pipe back when an obstruction is encountered.
- Multiple applications: suitable for pipe insertion, sliplining, manoeuvring and re-rounding.
- Easy installation: quick to attach, robust enough for demanding jobsites and compact for transport and storage.
The Pipe Pusher can also be used for live and non-live pipe insertion, subject to the requirements and safety procedures of the project.
Working on a project involving PE pipe installation? Tell us about your application, pipe diameter and excavator set-up. We'll be happy to discuss the options or arrange a demonstration.