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One Method for an Unpredictable Underground
When underground conditions change, your drilling method shouldn’t have to. Bortech’s DTH Hammer System addresses unpredictability with a single, adaptable approach.
Designed to advance steel casing through challenging ground conditions, our system combines DTH technology, casing advancement, remote operation, and automated control into one specialized solution.
Built for the Toughest Ground Conditions
Not every bore encounters ideal soil. That's why we engineered our own hammer system to perform across virtually every ground condition, including:
Hard rock
Cobbles and boulders
Shot rock
Weathered rock
Clay
Sand
Gravel
Mixed soils
Unstable soils
Unlike conventional boring methods that can struggle or stall in rock formations, this system uses a powerful hammer-driven drilling process that is specifically designed to penetrate solid rock while maintaining exceptional accuracy.
Engineered for Precision
Successful trenchless construction requires far more than simply reaching the other side of an obstacle.
Maintaining precise line and grade is critical for utility installation, especially beneath existing infrastructure where even small deviations can create major challenges.
Our hydraulic guidance system continuously adjusts the drilling path throughout installation, automatically maintaining alignment without requiring perfectly constructed jacking pit floors.
Additional engineering features improve installation quality, including:
Closed-face drill bits that prevent surrounding soil from entering the casing.
Welded casing shoes that keep the pilot bit and casing advancing together.
Precision ring-bit tolerances that eliminate the need for exterior grouting after installation.
Adaptive hammer energy that automatically adjusts to changing ground conditions.
Together, these technologies produce accurate, consistent installations from beginning to end.
Less Prep. Faster Builds. Safer Sites.
Every hour saved on setup translates into greater project efficiency and safety.
Our system minimizes mobilization requirements by eliminating the need for:
Concrete thrust blocks
Starter blocks
Concrete jacking pit floors
Bentonite lubrication systems
With an above-ground power source and remote-controlled operation, crews can mobilize quickly while maintaining a safer work environment.
Environmentally Responsible Construction
Today's infrastructure projects require solutions that minimize environmental impact whenever possible. Unlike many traditional trenchless methods, DTH does not require bentonite lubrication during casing installation.
The drilling system also incorporates a spiral flush pilot bit that directs exhaust air through the cutting head and casing pipe, efficiently clearing drill cuttings while preventing ground charging.
The result is a cleaner installation process with fewer materials required on site.
Why Engineers and EPC Contractors Choose Hammer Boring
For utility owners, municipalities, EPC contractors, and general contractors, hammer boring provides a dependable solution when difficult ground conditions threaten project schedules.
Its ability to install steel casing through hard rock while maintaining precise alignment makes it one of the most capable trenchless installation methods available today.
When combined with experienced operators and proper project planning, DTH hammer boring helps reduce risk, improve production, and complete crossings that conventional boring methods simply cannot achieve.
“At Bortech, we combine advanced proprietary equipment with experienced crews to deliver trenchless installations that keep critical infrastructure projects moving forward—regardless of what's underground.”
– Rob Titanic
FAQ
What is hammer boring used for?
Hammer boring is a trenchless construction method used to install steel casing beneath highways, railroads, rivers, utilities, and other surface obstacles. It is particularly effective when underground conditions include hard rock, cobbles, boulders, or mixed geology that may limit conventional boring methods.
How far can hammer boring install casing?
Our hammer boring system can install steel casing in lengths of up to 300 feet, depending on project conditions, geology, casing size, and engineering requirements.
What casing sizes can be installed?
Our equipment is capable of installing steel casing ranging from 8 inches to 48 inches in diameter, making it suitable for a wide range of utility, pipeline, and infrastructure applications.
Can hammer boring drill through solid rock?
Yes. Hammer boring is specifically designed to penetrate hard rock using concentrated pneumatic hammer energy delivered directly to a carbide cutting point. This makes it one of the most effective trenchless methods available for rock installations.
Does hammer boring require bentonite or grout?
No bentonite is required to lubricate the casing during installation. In addition, the system's precision ring-bit tolerance typically eliminates the need for exterior grouting, simplifying the installation process and reducing environmental impact.
Why choose Bortech for hammer boring services?
Bortech combines specialized trenchless expertise with advanced hammer boring technology capable of installing steel casing accurately through some of the industry's most challenging ground conditions. Our focus on safety, precision, and project efficiency allows owners, EPC contractors, municipalities, and utility providers to complete complex underground crossings with confidence.