Temporary Thrust Casing and Auger assemblies are positioned directly behind a reaming head, which follows the pilot tubes. The reaming head increases the bore diameter, and the augers transport spoil to the launch shaft.
The Integral Bearing Swivel Cutter is an upsizing tool between the pilot tube adapter and the lead thrust casing. It is used in ground conditions above 35 blow count and functions to keep the pilot tubes stationary. Simultaneously, the cutter bit rotates to excavate the soil, and fluid ports release lubrication to reduce cutting torque. Integral Bearing Swivel Cutters are available in standard and HD models to match the thrust casing assemblies.
Thrust Casing & Auger Assemblies Features:
- Available in 11, 16‐in. OD standard and 16‐in. OD Heavy Duty
- Casings connect with retaining clips
- Supplied in a convenient wire basket for ease in transport
Integral Bearing Swivel Cutter Features:
- Mates to lead thrust casing assembly
- Used in ground condition above 35 blow count
- Absorbs the rotation of the augers to keep pilot tube string stationary
- Cutter bit tooling excavates the ground
- Cutter bit fluid ports to release lubrication to reduce cutting torque

11‐in. Thrust Casing and Auger Assembly
16‐in. Thrust Casing and Auger Assembly
16‐in. HD Thrust Casing and Auger Assembly
Integral Bearing Swivel Cutter 11‐in.
Integral Bearing Swivel Cutter 16‐in. HD
Specifications
Thrust Casing and Auger Assembly
Model | Length | Max. Thrust / Torque | Weight Ea. |
---|---|---|---|
11 in. | 1 m | 100 ton / 10,500 ft‐lb | 265 lbs |
16 in. | 1 m | 100 ton / 10,500 ft‐lb | 400 lbs |
16-in. HD | 60 in | 200 ton / 21,000 ft‐lb | 570 lbs |
11 in SCH | 43 in | 70 ton / 10,500 ft-lbf | 700 lbs |
16 in SCH | 43 in | 100 ton / 21,000 ft-lbf | 1,200 lbs |
Testimonials
Super Excavators, Inc. has enjoyed a long partnership with Akkerman over the years. We originally bought a competitor’s microtunnel system and had nothing but problems with quality and service. Finally we called Akkerman and bought their SL36 microtunnel system. Since then we have never looked back. We have bought several other pieces of equipment from Akkerman. From GBM equipment to ABIS to several microtunnel cutting heads. They have been great working with our staff to customize the equipment for our specific needs. We have put their equipment to the test on several projects by pushing the envelope in long drive distances and very difficult ground conditions. The equipment has responded well and together we have made modifications to continue to improve on efficiency. In our business it is necessary to have people their when you need them. Akkerman has done a great job at supplying quality equipment and servicing our needs in a timely matter, helping keep our work on schedule.
