Local digging equipment and attachment specialist, Digga, has introduced its innovative HALO drilling alignment system which it has dubbed “The Future of Drilling”.
HALO is built into the hood of the drive unit consisting of a band of LED lights that indicate whether the drill is in or out of alignment. A full ring of green lights mean the unit is in a plumb position, while a combination of red and green lights mean the drill is out of alignment. The side of which the lights turn red will inform the operator which way they should adjust the drill to bring it back into plumb position.
According to Digga, the HALO utilises a microprocessor and six sensors to provide accurate readings to plus or minus 0.25 degrees, even under heavy vibration.
Digga said the HALO presents several advantages over traditional systems. By incorporating it into the hood, there is no need for costly in-cab display screens, and operators need not look away from the job.
The HALO can be powered in two ways. First is the standard option which is via a cable direct to cab to draw power from the cigarette lighter power plug.
The second method is through an optional battery which eliminates cable use and allows operators to start drilling plumb within minutes.
With the HALO, there is no need for a Spotter with a Spirit Level to guide the operator, Digga said.
By ensuring the holes are drilled accurately from the get-go, HALO reduces the number of in-hole angle adjustments which can create an oversized hole, Digga added.
In-hole adjustments also take a toll on the auger bit and drive and the HALO eliminates this problem.
Digga said the HALO system took the company four years to develop, test and bring to market. Digga spent years doing bench and field testing on the HALO to ensure it works well in harsh conditions.
The HALO will be available from August 3, 2020, on Digga Drives PD3 to PD7, which suit most machines around the three to eight tonne range.
Digga is looking to release HALO to its entire range of drilling drives in late 2020.