Osborn is the official OEM supplier in Southern Africa of auger borers and horizontal directional drills (HDDs) manufactured by American Augers at the company’s facility in West Salem, Ohio. The application of these products ranges from the installation of utilities, water, gas, sewerage and communications to drainage.

Product sales manager Peet Venter notes that since being launched, the equipment has received a rousing reception from the South African market. The equipment meets the underground construction needs of customers involved in construction, the pipeline industry and the installation of infrastructure. “We at Osborn is proud to be able to promote these machines as part of our product offering.” He says that Osborn’s after sales support, including its field service, are critical factors in securing orders. “Combined, with the customer recognising the outstanding built quality of these machines,” he adds. Like all of the top quality machines in Osborn’s equipment offering, these horizontal directional drills and auger borers are supported by the company’s comprehensive, national after sales network, which offers 24/7 service, back-up and spares.

Piping installation investigated

Outlining the benefits of these machines, Venter says that that American Augers’ Auger Boring Machines are designed for the fast, efficient installation of wider diameter pipes from 450mm to 3500mm. “They eliminate the safety risks associated with traditional tunneling methods like pipe jacking and are more efficient by utilizing the quick tram mode that is unique to American Augers’ equipment,” he stresses.

In its quest for top quality performance, American Augers has also maintained a focus on the environment, and these drills and auger borers boast several features that are in keeping with the manufacturers’ commitment to minimising their impact on the environment. Venter explains that this has been achieved by reducing noise and emissions outputs, and he highlights the fact that this trenchless technology equipment requires little or no open cutting, which has very minimal impacts on natural surfaces, features and habitats.