HDD contractors can complete fiber and other underground utility jobs more efficiently with the new JT21 directional drill from Ditch Witch. An upgraded replacement for the JT20, the JT21 delivers up to 40 percent more downhole horsepower than its predecessor and 35 percent faster carriage speed than any drill in its class, the company said.
Unveiled at The Utility Expo 2025, the JT21 features 21,000 pounds of pullback, 20,000 pounds of thrust, and 2,250 foot-pounds of torque, allowing crews to complete installations at a faster pace in a variety of soil conditions. A new design with a lower center of gravity increases stability.
The JT21 also incorporates enhancements to simplify operations and extend equipment life. Virtually assisted make-up technology helps protect pipe threads, while a horizontal-style pipe-loading system improves uptime and efficiency. A larger displacement pump runs at lower RPM to reduce wear, and improved hydraulics with a direct-drive rotation motor provide more horsepower where it matters.
With a familiar interface shared across other Ditch Witch HDD platforms and multi-mode joysticks, the JT21 reduces training time and boosts crew efficiency.
Ditch Witch also announced the launch of Orange Intel, an improved telematics platform designed to give underground construction contractors a clearer view of their equipment, operations, and bottom line.
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Contractors can personalize dashboards and alerts to match their fleet needs. The data explorer tool makes it simple to track fuel usage, idle time, and equipment productivity across multiple sites. With built-in preventative maintenance scheduling, Orange Intel helps extend machine life and prevent downtime. In addition, GPS tracking and geofence alerts help protect equipment investments.
