Powered Cutting Heads (PCH / PRH)
Akkerman’s Powered Cutting Heads (PCH) and Powered Reaming Heads (PRH) set the standard for pilot tube microtunneling. These powerful units increase the diameter of the bore to match the final product pipe while reversing the direction of the material discharge of the excavated material to the reception shaft in order to install any standard allowable jacking pipe suitable for the application.
FEATURES:
Powered Cutting Heads (PCH)
- PCHs feature independent hydraulic drive systems allowing the operator to control cutterhead and auger speed and direction independently.
- High‑pressure jetting nozzles assist with material transfer and cutting in cohesive ground.
- Pipe lubrication ports in the tail section promote a stable borehole and reduced pressures.
- Material is discharged and reversed inside the plenum chamber, creating mechanical earth balance during excavation.
- Increase kits are available to adapt to various jacking pipe diameters or types.
Powered Reaming Heads (PRH)
- PRH uses a single bi‑directional hydraulic drive system to turn the cutterhead and auger string simultaneously.
- Augers and casings connect via reaming arms for open transfer of excavated material.
- Material discharge is reversed inside the plenum chamber, sending cuttings to the reception shaft.
- High‑pressure jetting nozzles assist material transfer and cutting in cohesive ground.
- Pipe lubrication ports in the tail section promote a stable borehole and reduced pressures.
- PRH heads use a common drive and gearbox; shield bodies can be built for various jacking pipe diameters or types.
SPECIFICATIONS
Print This Page| Model | Base Diameter | CH HP / Auger Torque | Weight (Drive) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCH 20 | 20-in. | 32 hp / 10,500 ft-lbf | 1,800 lbs. |
| PCH 22.5 | 22.5-in. | 48 hp / 10,500 ft-lbf | 2,000 lbs. |
| PCH 30.5 | 30.5-in. | 61 hp / 10,500 ft-lbf | 2,200 lbs. |
| PCH 36 | 36-in. | 79 hp / 26,000 ft-lbf | 4,300 lbs. |
| PCH 44 | 44-in. | 93 hp 26,000 ft-lbf | 6,500 lbs. |
*Skin Kits available on all diameters
Powered Reaming Heads
| Model | Diameter Range | Torque | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRH 10.5 | 14-20 in. | 10,500 ft-lbf | 40 rpm |
| PRH 20 | 20-30 in. | 20,000 ft-lbf | 38 rpm |
| PRH 26 | 30-48 in. | 26,000 ft-lbf | 26 rpm |
Testimonials
Our interaction with Akkerman began on a project where we were struggling with their competition’s machine. Changing machines during a project to their machine required a leap of faith on our part. That project completed 20 years ago turned out to be successful and propelled us into 20 years of completing scores of successful micro tunnel projects throughout North America. Providing many innovations throughout this time has allowed us to mine many geology types and increase drive distances with curves to over 2500 lf. I can attest 30 years ago, technology did not exist that today allows us to complete projects efficiently and at a lower cost. Their leadership in providing technically superior AMERICAN made equipment is second to none in the world today.