Efficient Casing Installation in Hard Ground Conditions with Horizontal Hammer Boring

HHB transforms trenchless work in hard and mixed soils by pulling casing from the front—no fluids, thrust walls, or tool changes needed. Efficient and reliable.

From granite to gravel – one tool, same performance.

Geonex HHB works seamlessly in solid bedrock, mixed soils, and extreme boulder layers. The same cutter head handles varying geology without interruption, achieving high penetration rates even in 50,000+ PSI rock. With no tool changes needed and fewer moving parts, it’s a dependable system for unpredictable sites .

 Lower Setup Costs – No Thrust Walls, No Fluids

The Geonex method doesn’t require concrete foundations or reaction walls. A basic pit with hydraulic jacklegs is enough to align the bore. Since the hammer pulls the casing forward, setup is quick, and the footprint is minimal – even blind holes are possible .

For contractors, it’s not just about getting through rock – it’s about doing it faster, cleaner, and at a lower cost. That’s what Geonex delivers.

Proven Success Where Other Methods Failed

From railroad crossings in Virginia to sensitive wetland zones in Colorado, contractors are switching to Geonex after failed attempts with conventional methods. In over 15,000 projects worldwide, HHB has proven itself in terrain where steering, jacking, or slurry would add risk or cost

Compact, Cost-Efficient, Contractor-Friendly

Most HHB operations can be completed with a three-person crew and achieve up to 20 feet per hour in mixed conditions. With casing sizes from 5” to 48” and bore lengths up to 500 ft (or more in solid rock), the system offers serious power without overcomplicating the job. It’s ideal for contractors seeking consistent results and quick ROI on their equipment investment .

Boring rigs to match your trenchless project size

Horizontal Boring rig HZR220

The Geonex HZR220 is a compact yet powerful horizontal hammer boring rig, designed for urban infrastructure and tight job sites. With a drilling range from Ø139.7 mm to Ø323.9 mm, it delivers high precision and mobility without compromising performance—ideal for electric, cable, and small-diameter pipeline installations.
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Horizontal Boring rig HZR400

The Geonex HZR400 is a mid-sized horizontal hammer boring rig designed for infrastructure projects requiring casings from Ø168.3 mm to Ø508 mm. It offers the right combination of mobility, torque, and stability for crossings under roads, railways, and urban areas—especially where mixed ground or hard layers are present. Suitable for both utility contractors and municipalities looking for a dependable, all-purpose machine.
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Horizontal Boring rig HZR610

The Geonex HZR610 is a powerful and adaptable horizontal boring rig for large-diameter casing installations. Supporting diameters from Ø219.1 mm to Ø812.8 mm, it’s built to deliver high torque and reliable accuracy in longer crossings and heavier ground conditions. Whether you’re boring beneath highways, railways, rivers, or industrial zones, the HZR610 combines force, control, and versatility in one robust system.
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Horizontal Boring rig HZR1200

The Geonex HZR1200 is our largest and most powerful rig, purpose-built for large-diameter casing installations and long-distance crossings. With support for casing diameters from Ø406.4 mm to Ø1219.2 mm, the HZR1200 is ideal for major infrastructure and energy projects where high torque and precise control are essential—even in hard rock or mixed ground.
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Key benefits for contractor

  • Significant Cost Savings with Minimal Setup

    Geonex’s HHB method eliminates the need for thrust walls, concrete foundations, or drilling fluids. The system is quick to set up and offers high production rates, helping contractors save time and reduce total project costs.

  • One Tool for All Ground Conditions

    The same cutting head handles solid rock, cobbles, clay, and mixed soils – without the need to stop and change tools. This versatility reduces delays and simplifies operations, especially in unpredictable geology.

  • Accurate Bores Without Steering Systems

    Although non-steered, HHB achieves excellent alignment by pulling the casing from the front. With long casing sections and proper setup, contractors regularly achieve high accuracy – even over longer distances.

  • Ideal for Sensitive and Confined Areas

    HHB is a clean method with no drilling fluids, minimal surface disturbance, and no soil displacement. It’s perfectly suited for installations under railways, roads, wetlands, and other environmentally or structurally sensitive zones.

  • Smart Investment with Long-Term Value

    Geonex HHB equipment is built to last and requires minimal maintenance. With fewer consumables, fast cycle times, and compatibility across casing sizes from 5” to 48”, it’s a reliable addition to any contractor’s fleet.

Streamline Your Underground Installations with Geonex

 Request a consultation and see how Geonex can make the difference. Request a consultation