UNI 12x20 Rod Loading Simplified

Universal HDD has unveiled a simplified rod-loading for its UNI 12×20 directional drill, making manual handling faster and safer for crews. The rig relies on manual loading of 6-foot, 1.90-inch FS1 rods, but the new assist feature does the hardest part of the lifting. A powered cradle rises smoothly from the bottom of the onboard basket, prepping the next rod at an easy-to-reach height. This continuous “one-up” cycle shaves precious minutes from every loading/unloading sequence. Field testing shows average rod loading times drop by nearly 30 percent compared with fully manual handling. The rod assist adds less than 1% to overall rig weight, preserving the UNI 12×20’s class-leading power-to-weight ratio. Contractors also keep the full 50-rod capacity of the standard over-the-top basket, so productivity gains do not come at the expense of pipe on board. Operators have welcomed the upgrade, noting less lower-back strain at the end of long boring days.