UNI-PF250 Pipe Feeder FAQ: Specifications, Applications & Ordering
What is the UNI-PF250 and what does it do?
The UNI-PF250 is a 200-short-ton conveyor-based pipe feeder manufactured by Universal HDD in Lake Zurich, Illinois. It applies continuous axial force to large-diameter steel pipelines during trenchless installation operations — including HDD pullback, microtunneling, pipe jacking, and Direct Pipe® tunneling.
What pipe diameters does the UNI-PF250 support?
Steel pipelines with outer diameters from 20 to 56 inches. The hydraulic clamping system is adjustable to accommodate different OD dimensions and wall thicknesses within this range.
How much force does the UNI-PF250 generate?
• Continuous axial force: 200 short tons
• Intermittent (peak) force: 250 short tons
• Hydraulic pressure (standard): 4,000 PSI
• Hydraulic pressure (intermittent): 5,000 PSI
How is the UNI-PF250 powered?
The UNI-PF250 includes an autonomous 300 HP powerpack as a standard component. It can also be operated using a connected HDD rig as the power source.
Does installation require a crane?
No. The UNI-PF250 is designed for crane-free installation. The system is delivered as three modular units, each sized for standard flatbed transport. On-site assembly connects the three units without heavy lift equipment.
What is the feed speed of the UNI-PF250?
• High-speed feed: 0.62 mph
• Speed at maximum torque: 0.31 mph
• Average tunneling speed with TBM: approximately 2.5 inches per minute
What applications does the UNI-PF250 support?
• HDD pullback assistance — supplementary push force at the exit side
• Microtunneling — continuous pipe feed behind the MTBM
• Pipe jacking — primary or supplementary jacking force at the drive shaft
• Direct Pipe® tunneling — simultaneous TBM excavation and pipe installation in one step
• River, road, and railroad trenchless crossings
What is included in the operator cab?
The UNI-PF250 includes a standalone panoramic operator cab with climate control, air-suspension seating, remote control interface with pictographic display, integrated diagnostic system for real-time fault identification, and optional video monitoring.
What is the weight and transport configuration?
• Pipe feeder unit with pads: 45 short tons
• Pipe feeder unit without pads: 39.2 short tons
• Power pack (20 ft container): 15,000 lbs
• Control container (10 ft): 5,000 lbs
• Transport dimensions: 98.5 × 127 × 315 inches
Where is the UNI-PF250 manufactured?
The UNI-PF250 is engineered and manufactured at the Universal HDD facility in Lake Zurich, Illinois, USA.
What is the lead time?
Standard lead time is 16 to 18 weeks from order confirmation. Worldwide delivery available.
How do I request a quote or download technical specifications?
Visit unihdd.com/products/pipe-thruster-uni-pf250 to download the full specification sheet (PDF), submit a quote request, and access dimensional drawings. You can also call (847) 857-7009, Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm Central Time.