The Ultra X3 is designed to be ultra-versatile and delivers value and efficiency in three ways:
The Vermeer Ultra X3’s robust spline connection system eliminates the need for threading and breakout tongs. Operators simply align the splines on the tooling and housing, then secure the tooling by tapping in dowel pins.
The system can handle reaming diameters up to 12 in (30.5 cm) from the transmitter housing in most conditions. It supports a full range of HDD plate bits and rock tooling as well as two reaming options, fluted and mixing, and pull eye or swivel options.
The Vermeer Ultra X3 features interchangeable pilot and pullback tooling without the need for torqued or threaded components, and it can ream directly off the transmitter housing. For certain applications, it can eliminate the need for starter rods and adapters. The Ultra X3’s strong spline connection can handle the torque of reaming directly off the transmitter housing in most conditions.
This system enhances jobsite efficiency by reducing the size of your exit pit, and time needed to dig an exit pit. Its design allows HDD crews to switch from pilot to pullback in a smaller space without removing the housing for most pullbacks, minimizing repetitive lifting. This also means smaller pits, which can lead to less jobsite restoration work.
The Ultra X3 housing features a standard API rear connection and is compatible with quick-connect systems like the Vermeer QuickFire® connection system. Contractors can save on starter rods and collars thanks to the quick-connect on the bit side of the housing, with the Ultra X3 system also being lead rod compatible.
The Vermeer Ultra X3 is available in three different sizes covering all HDD models rated up to the 40,000-pound (177.9-kN) drill range.
Dirt bit sub
The dirt bit sub is equipped for many ground conditions. Operators can bolt-on any Vermeer plate bit offerings to match the ground conditions ahead. Bit Boss™ retention system shoulder screws on Ace™ and Gladiator bits help decrease the force that could shear off bolts downhole. This enables improved reliability throughout your drill string and reduces tooling replacement.
Lance Pro bit
The Lance Pro bit offers continuous carbide coverage across the front of the bit to help extend wear life while featuring domed, plug-style teeth. This bit can be rebuilt and is better protected from wear thanks to carbide buttons to protect the bit mount section. With a tendency to cut on center, the Lance Pro bit helps you execute precise bores as planned. This bit is intended use in hard packed soils, highly abrasive cobble and cemented cobble.
Lance Trident bit
Designed for soft rock, shale and caliche is the Lance Trident bit. For improved wear resistance, carbide buttons are brazed on the sides as well as replaceable conical teeth. Lance Trident bits also have the option to rebuild once worn down. To learn more about the drill bit rebuild process, your local Vermeer dealership can assist you.
Single Roller Cone bit
The Single Roller Cone bit is built for cobble and dense cemented cobble. It features a single carbide tipped roller cone extracted from a tricone rock bit. The roller cone is welded onto the bit mount, creating space to cut and move cobble with ease. For even better steering performance, a steering shoe with carbide grit is welded onto the steering shoe.
Gauntlet bit
The Gauntlet bit is best suited for working in soft, solid rock and broken formations. It features three replaceable carbide-tipped conical teeth that are replaceable as they wear down, with grit carbide being applied to high-wear areas. Carbide buttons are placed onto the steering shoe to aid in bit wear and steering performance. This is another rebuildable bit offered by Vermeer to help minimize costs on HDD tooling.
2Thirty™ bit
The newest addition to the Ultra X3 lineup is the 2Thirty bit. It’s designed to tackle tough ground conditions like broken, hard rock. It features two oversized conical teeth set at a 30-degree angle to aggressively attack rock formations. This bit also features carbide buttons and carbide grit in high-wear areas. It’s the last line of defense before utilizing an air hammer or dual rod rock drill and is limited in steering performance.
If you want to swap drill bits faster than you thought possible, consider adding the Ultra X3 system to your toolkit. It’s designed for operators who frequently tackle changing ground conditions and want to get work done efficiently.