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
| 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
Parsons
I reached out to Akkerman to obtain some basic pricing information on their MTBM and supporting equipment for a project. Cecilia Zavaleta provided all the information I needed in record time and was very helpful in answering all my questions. I highly appreciate Akkerman for providing such great support to engineers.