News & Press Release Archives

The original 5000 Series Pump Unit, the flagship product for Akkerman and the heart of our all-in-one 5000 Series pipejacking system, has been a powerful companion on an vast number of pipejacking jobs over the last 30-years.The completely revamped and enhanced 5000 Series II Pump Unit features streamlined operation and functions, an incorporated dual-feed pump to power all TBM sizes, a raised operator’s station with ergonomic controls, many safety provisions and improved maintenance accessibility.

The 5000 Series II Pump Unit requires less pit height than its predecessor due to an integrated dual pump feed. The two, low-pressure, 100 HP (74 kW) Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) electric motors provide low-pressure power for the TBM and conveyor at 3,000 psi (207 bar) and up to 120 GPM (454 L/min). The operator can select various configurations of 30, 60 and 90 GPM (114-341 L/min) flow requirements to match the boring head cutter bit drive demands and conveyor and auxiliary operations. The low pressure motors share a 160 gallon (606 L) oil reservoir. The 5000 Series II Pump Unit can generate a combined 400-tons (363 t) of jacking force through the unit’s two hydraulic cylinders. A high-pressure 50 HP (37 kW) TEFC electric motor supplies 5,500 psi (379 bar) at up to 26 GPM (98 L/min) for jacking and auxiliary functions. The jacking function oil supply reservoir has a100 gallon (379 L) capacity. A required 400-amp, 480-volt, 3-phase connection will provide power to the pipejacking system’s electrical needs.

The 5000 Series II Pump Unit touts many ergonomic and safety provisions along with maintenance ease. The operator’s platform features eye and hand level indicators and controls while positioned above the pit floor, and away from jacking hydraulics while offering protection on two sides. The load sense controlled piston pumps make for the most efficient use of the equipment’s hydraulics at decreased noise levels. Indicators for the oil temperature, oil level and filter replacement alert the operator of maintenance requirements with easy single panel access to filters, pumps and motors. A phase error indicator detects incorrect phase hook-up and inadequate voltage. The pump unit features an emergency TBM power shut-off e-stop and skid lock and unlock indicator to keep crew members safe during operation. The main power cable is included with the package along with a removable power cable storage bracket with locking mechanism.

In-shaft, the system stands a mere 110-inches (2.8 m), making the 5000 Series II Pump Unit ideal for clearance when used with most pit shoring configurations. Since it is compatible with all Akkerman standard yokes, skids and haul units, customers with existing Akkerman equipment will be ready for pipejacking with the acquisition of this unit.

Contact Akkerman to learn more about the next generation of all-in-one pipejacking equipment options.

AKKERMAN TO REVEAL NEW CONVENTIONAL PRODUCTS PLUS MORE AT ICUEE

The International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE), known as The Demo Expo, allows Akkerman to bring our machinery directly to exposition attendees. We’ve filled 7,500 square-feet of outdoor space with Akkerman equipment and will unveil two new products from our conventional line of pipejacking equipment.

For the first time, customers will be able to touch and feel the 5000 Series II Pump Unit, the heart of our all-in-one pipejacking system. The 5000 Series II Pump Unit features streamlined operation and functions, an incorporated dual-feed pump for all TBM sizes, an operator’s station with ergonomic controls, and many safety provisions. The 5000 Series II Pump Unit is compatible with all Akkerman yokes, skids and haul units.

Also for premier reveal, our most popular sized TBM has experienced a fundamental re-design. The 720 Series II TBM, now capable of rock and soft ground excavation and bi-directional rotation, touts increased torque and drive reliability with simplified hydraulics.

Visit our outdoor display K103 for live demonstrations and displays of these and other quality Akkerman products.

ICUEE 2011 will be held October 4-6, 2011 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. ICUEE attracts professionals involved in the electric, phone/cable, sewer/water, gas, general construction, landscaping and public works segments. Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) is the show owner and producer. For more information on the show visit www.icuee.com.

AKKERMAN INC. RECOGNIZED BY GOVERNOR FOR SAFETY EXCELLENCE

Akkerman Inc. was formally recognized at the Governor’s Safety Awards Luncheon on Friday, May 13 at the Minnesota Convention Center for its Minnesota Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (MNSHARP) status.

MNSHARP is a Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MNOSHA) program of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (MNDLI). MNSHARP recognized companies demonstrate exemplary health and safety programs that supersede applicable OSHA standards. As one of 41 MNSHARP certified work sites, out of 10,000+ manufacturers in Minnesota, Akkerman enjoys the benefits associated with long-term prevention of job-related injuries and illnesses including improved productivity, lower medical treatment costs and reduced worker’s compensation insurance premiums. In addition, MNSHARP compliance entitles Akkerman to an exemption from MNOSHA inspections for two years.

Akkerman Inc. entered the initial phases of the program in January of 2010 and was officially indoctrinated into the program in June 2010. Workplace safety representatives from the MNDLI and MNOSHA, former Commissioner Steve Sviggum, local county commissions, community members and all Akkerman employees commemorated this achievement in August 2010 during a flag raising ceremony. Akkerman was re-certified in April 2011 and will require additional recertification in January 2013.

Pictured is Ken Peterson, MNDLI Commissioner, and Gary Medgaarden, Improvements Manager and Assistant Production Manager, Jay Howton of Akkerman Inc.

MNSHARP began in Minnesota in 1996. For more information, visit www.dli.mn.gov/wsc/mnsharp.asp.

AKKERMAN LAUNCHES USED EQUIPMENT SALES WEB PAGE

Akkerman Inc. announces our Used Equipment Sales web page, offering pre-owned equipment from our rental and lease fleet for final sale. These products from our guided boring machine, conventional and microtunneling lines of equipment have been thoroughly serviced and may come with a factory warranty. The Used Equipment Sales page features full descriptions with genuine photos, serial numbers and comparative pricing. Inventory will be updated on a monthly basis and sold items will be removed immediately so the information is always fresh.  

Please visit the Used Equipment Sales page to see our initial offerings and check back regularly for updates. As always, our friendly sales staff are available to discuss these items in more detail.

AKKERMAN LAUNCHES FACEBOOK PAGE AND PROMOTION

Akkerman Inc. followers can now connect with us like never before! Our recently launched Facebook page features exclusive information, photos, news and comments.

To spearhead our fan network, the "Akkerman Inc. Facebook Fan Hat Giveaway" will reward one in ten participants who "Like" our page with a free hat, embroidered with our logo and Facebook address.

The objective with our Facebook page is to communicate more frequently on a personal level with all of our fans. We want users to understand Akkerman Inc. not only as an equipment manufacturer but also as a hardworking group of individuals. Rather than duplicate current communication strategies, the Facebook page will supplement these efforts with additional content.

1548 ALL ELECTRIC HAUL UNIT FOR LARGE CAPACITY SPOIL REMOVAL

Brownsdale, MN – November 15, 2010 –Akkerman Inc. recently unveiled the 1548 Haul Unit featuring enhanced operator safety and comfort combined with improved productivity for spoil removal starting with our 600 TBM and all the way up to our BS 1440 excavator shield.

The improved 1548 Haul Unit functions with a 15 HP (11.2 kW) electric drive. The all electric drive employs progressive technology for greater efficiency and minimized maintenance. The unit boasts consistent low-end torque with an extended range of speed resulting in shortened turnaround times, even with heavy spoil loads and moderate grades. The regenerative motor braking feature recaptures traditionally lost energy, thus increasing battery life. An inching component provides precise operator control for accurate conveyor alignment.

Numerous comfort and safety features have been incorporated into the 1548 Haul Unit. The enclosed operator platform provides personal protection during movement. The control center and direction speed control lever is amply visible and ergonomic. The centrally located battery gauge hour meter, clearly displays the battery charge level. The removable main power switch prevents accidental powering-on during nonuse. The 1548 Haul Unit features independent hydraulic service and mechanical parking brakes. The fail safe braking attribute will safely bring the unit to a stop upon release of the direction speed control lever. Flashing blue beacons and head and tail lights illuminate the tunnel during entrance and exit along with a warning horn for additional movement notification.

The 1548 Haul Unit conveniently adjusts from 20” (508 mm) to 24” (610 mm) gage track with the addition of a bolt-on track kit. It accommodates the full range of Akkerman dirt buckets, including extended sizes as well as all Akkerman battery packs.

AKKERMAN INC. RECEIVES MNSHARP CERTIFICATION FOR EXEMPLARY SAFETY STANDARDS

Brownsdale, MN – July 19, 2010 – Recently acknowledged as a Minnesota Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (MNSHARP) certified worksite, Akkerman Inc. will be recognized during a ceremony on Wednesday, August 4 at 11:30 a.m. at their manufacturing facility.

MNSHARP is a Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MNOSHA) program of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (MNDLI). MNSHARP recognized companies substantiate exemplary health and safety programs that supersede applicable OSHA standards. As one of 40 MNSHARP certified worksites, out of 10,000+ manufacturers in Minnesota, Akkerman will enjoy the benefits associated with long-term prevention of job-related injuries and illnesses including improved productivity, lower medical treatment costs and reduced worker’s compensation insurance premiums. In addition, MNSHARP compliance entitles Akkerman to an exemption from MNOSHA inspections for two years.

“Akkerman Inc. is now recognized as having one of the state’s best worksites for safety and health,” said Steve Sviggum, Department of Labor and Industry commissioner. “Together, our combined goal is worker safety. We are pleased to recognize Akkerman Inc. for its commitment to communicate, demonstrate and practice safety and health excellence at all levels of the organization. This recognition is based on Akkerman's safety record, program and most importantly, their performance.”

President and CEO, Maynard Akkerman states “Safety awareness has always been a priority at Akkerman Inc., however, going through the certification process with MNOSHA was an enlightening experience that has made a definite positive impact on my company. Nevertheless, we view this certification as another step towards continuous safety improvement.”

Workplace safety representatives from the MNDLI and MNOSHA, Commissioner Steve Sviggum, local county commissions and affiliated community members will assemble along with Akkerman employees to commemorate this achievement during the August 4 ceremony.

MNSHARP began in Minnesota in 1996. For more information, visit www.dli.mn.gov/wsc/mnsharp.asp.

RICK ZAVITZ JOINS SALES AND MARKETING TEAM

Brownsdale, MN – July 13, 2010 - Akkerman Inc. recently appointed Rick Zavitz to the position of area sales manager for the North American and Canadian markets.

Zavitz’s affinity for the trenchless industry situates him as a valuable asset to the Akkerman Sales and Marketing team. With a collective 17+ years of expertise in lubrication products, slurry separation, mud mixing and directional drill manufacturing, Zavitz brings with him many years of established relationships within the trenchless market. Formerly of Wyo-Ben Inc., Zavitz spent 10-years as a technical sales engineer in Billing, MT. Prior to this, Zavitz established dealer networks in the North America region for Surface to Surface Inc., manufacturer of slurry separation, mud mixing and cleaning equipment. Preceding this, he sold locating and directional drilling equipment for Trenchless Utility Equipment Inc., also of Ontario.

Regarding his recent appointment, Zavitz states, “I feel very fortunate to be in a position to further the relationships that I have developed in this industry, many of whom are common Akkerman customers, as well as the opportunity to form new ties.”

Zavitz’s many personal interests include hunting, fishing woodworking as well as refereeing youth and high school soccer. Originally from London, Ontario, Zavitz, his wife Beth, and their two sons, Jacob and Emmet have resided in Billings, MT for the past 8- years. Zavitz will remotely operate from his home in Billings.

Contact Rick at rzavitz@akkerman.com or 800.533.0386 ext. 178.

AKKERMAN SALES POSITIONING IN THE MIDDLE EAST, INDIA, RUSSIA AND SINGAPORE

Brownsdale, MN – April 15, 2010 – Akkerman Inc. is positioned for sales in new markets with recently established representation in the Middle East, India, Russia and Singapore. Agreements with Trenchers Land Digging & Filling LLC based in the United Arab Emirates, Asia Contech Ltd. of India, Intertorg Russia and ICE Far East in Singapore pioneer exciting prospects for Akkerman Inc. worldwide.

Trenchers Land Digging & Filling LLC of Dubai recently facilitated the sale of a complete Guided Boring Machine (GBM) system for a Kuwait contractor. This sale denotes the first GBM system sold in the Middle East as well as the most powerful pilot tube microtunneling configuration available. The 4812A jacking frame with 200 tons of thrust, 275T power pack, Powered Cutter Head and Jetting and Lubrication pump will install DN 300-1,000 mm pipes for drives up to 150 m long.

Asia Contech Ltd. of New Delhi, providing sales and service of Akkerman equipment in India, also represents trenchless companies American Augers, ASTEC and Trencor. ICE Far East of Singapore, a south east Asia office for International Construction Equipment (ICE) will represent Akkerman in this region. Intertorg of Moscow, a US based company with expertise in the Russian trenchless market, has been a longtime dealer for Ditch Witch and previously represented Lovat, Soltau and MTS equipment.

Akkerman welcomes these organizations into its community of sales representatives. Tunnel Engineering Services in the United Kingdom, Ditch Witch of Australia, Virtual Engineering of Columbia and the Alinea Group of Mexico have been agents of Akkerman for many years. Additional representatives have been appointed in Egypt, Turkey, Bulgaria, Poland, Brazil, Italy and Pakistan. For a full listing of equipment representatives, please review the “Contact Us” page on the Akkerman website.

MAYNARD AKKERMAN INDUCTED INTO THE MOLES

Maynard Akkerman, President and CEO of Akkerman Inc., was officially welcomed on May 6, 2009 as a member of The Moles, a prominent heavy construction fraternal organization.

Established in 1938, membership into The Moles is limited to 550 individuals who are engaged in specific sectors of the construction industry and have obtained a heightened level of accomplishment within their industry. Each year, the group holds four annual events in the New York metropolitan area and bestows two awards to recognize individuals for outstanding achievement.

On his induction into The Moles, Maynard states, “It’s an honor to be nominated to this esteemed group. At this stage in my career, it’s important to me to further the good work of the trenchless industry. Association with The Moles will help me in this endeavor.”

Since 1973, Akkerman Inc. manufactures distinctive microtunneling, pipe jacking, tunneling, guided boring and earth pressure balance equipment. Akkerman equipment is widely distributed in the national and international markets.

JETTING AND LUBRICATION PUMP FOR GUIDED BORING MACHINE SYSTEM

Akkerman Inc. is pleased to present the combination Jetting and Lubrication Pump for its Guided Boring Machine (GBM) system. The new Jetting and Lubrication Pump arrangement allows customers to maintain optimum production rates in variable soil conditions in one compact, easily-transported unit.

The Jetting and Lubrication pump features independent hydrostatic flow controls for premium user control in a variety of soil conditions during each step in the 3-step GBM process. Customers have their choice of a 3,000 rpm, 30 HP diesel engine or the equivalent AC electric power source. The large 325 gallon tanks provide appropriate production capacity to meet Powered Cutter Head (PCH) and Cutter Head with Integral Swivel requirements. The tanks can be easily serviced at the open/close valve on the tank outlet. Highly transportable, contractors will find the Jetting and Lubrication Pump platform easy to move on site and travels well on a flat bed trailer.

The 2,500 psi high pressure Jetting Pump aides the GBM cutting process by lubricating cutter bits and spoils during excavation. An in-line suction filter protects the pump from contaminants in the water.

The 250 psi Lubrication Pump assists with lubricating the pilot tubes, casing and augers and product pipe by reducing friction and easing the jacking process. An in-tank agitator mixes the lubrication quickly and keeps it consistent throughout the production process.

The Jetting and Lubrication Pump is essential for use with the Akkerman PCH and the Cutter Head with Integral Swivel upsizing tool.

In 1973, Akkerman Inc. in Brownsdale, MN began providing tunnel boring machines to meet the needs of the trenchless market. Today, Akkerman Inc. sells and leases new and used microtunneling, pipejacking, guided boring and earth pressure balance equipment. Akkerman not only manufactures quality trenchless equipment, they have built a reputation for superior reliability and responsive service through a team of experienced engineers, field technicians and a large parts department. For information on how they can assist your next project please visit contact us or call 800.533.0386.

GBM UPSIZING TOOL FOR DIFFICULT GROUND CONDITIONS

Released this year, Akkerman Inc. introduces the Cutter Head with Integral Swivel for its Guided Boring Machine (GBM) system. When using this unique upsizing tool, contractors now have an option above and beyond the reaming head for difficult ground conditions. While versatile in many applications, contractors using the Cutter Head with Integral Swivel with an auger bore rig will especially realize its benefits.

During step-two of the three-step GBM process, the Cutter Head with Integral Swivel leads the first casing in the casing and auger string. Sized to match Akkerman’s casings and augers assemblies, the Cutter Head with Integral Swivel is available in 11” or 16” OD. This serviceable unit is equipped with fluid ports where performance is further enhanced when coupled with the combination Jetting and Lubrication Pump. The bullet teeth and drag bit configuration can be customized to suit job requirements.

The Cutter Head with Integral Swivel relieves pressure on the swivel, bearings and surrounding ground while keeping the pilot tubes stationary and pushing spoils through as usual. Additionally, it overcuts the casing to relieve the ground pressure.

In 1973, Akkerman Inc. in Brownsdale, MN began providing tunnel boring machines to meet the needs of the trenchless market. Today, Akkerman Inc. sells and leases new and used microtunneling, pipejacking, guided boring and earth pressure balance equipment. Akkerman not only manufactures quality trenchless equipment, they have built a reputation for superior reliability and responsive service through a team of experienced engineers, field technicians and a large parts department. For information on how they can assist your next project please contact us or call 800.533.0386.

SIMPLE BORING WITH THE NEW POWER CUTTER HEAD (PCH) 44

Akkerman Inc. of Brownsdale, MN introduces its newest and largest 93 hp PCH44 to enhance the performance of its Guided Boring Machine (GBM) system. The PCH line, exclusive to Akkerman Inc., offers more power to the cutter face for the installation of up to 48” O.D. pipe. The PCH 44 was designed to work with our new large GBM system, which includes the 4812A jacking frame, P275T power pack, theodolite guidance system, fi ve-foot dual-walled pilot tubes and 16” augers and casings. When used as a cohesive unit, longer pipes, fewer joints and faster bores present cost savings for the contractor and project owner. In addition, the PCH process gives customers the freedom to choose pipe length based on individual job requirements.

The PCH 44 offers more fl exibility in soil conditions for rapid and accurate bores. The jetting ports in the cutter face attach to a single hose that distributes lubrication to its four nozzles. The three pipe lubrication ports, located in the rear of the machine, reduce jacking force. Similar methodologies in pilot tube microtunneling use a reaming head and a single motor for breaking up and removing spoils at the cutter face. This process limits use in many ground conditions and increases jacking forces. Akkerman’s PCH line uses independent cutter face and auger drive motors for lower jacking force and a faster advance rate.

The powered cutter head operates in a three-pass process; fi rst, pilot tubes are installed on line and grade using the Akkerman GBM 4812A jacking frame and theodolite guidance system. Second, the bore diameter is increased by installing the fi ve-foot-long, 16” diameter augers and casings. The third step is to install the powered cutter head behind the augers and casings. The augers are then reversed by the PCH’s hydraulic drive and push spoils to the reception shaft while cutting the tunnel to the fi nal pipe diameter. The final product pipe is installed behind the PCH. As each section of augers and casings is removed from the reception shaft, a section of product pipe is installed in the launch shaft until the process is complete.

Other sizes of Akkerman PCH’s are the 20”, 22.5”, and 28.5”. These can be used independently, or in conjunction with an increaser kit. In the near future, Akkerman will release a PCH 36.

In 1973, Akkerman Inc. in Brownsdale, MN began providing tunnel boring machines to meet the needs of the trenchless market. Today Akkerman Inc. sells and leases new and used microtunneling, pipejacking, tunneling, guided boring and earth pressure balance equipment. Akkerman not only manufactures quality trenchless equipment, they have built a reputation for superior reliability and responsive service through a team of experienced engineers, field technicians and a large parts department. For information on how they can assist your project please contact us or call 800.533.0386.