The Infrastructure Challenge
Projects like SuedLink, a 700-kilometer transmission line delivering wind power from northern to southern Germany, highlight the immense scale of the undertaking. Building this network requires not just new energy generation, but also advanced underground transmission systems. That’s where Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) comes into play.
German manufacturer AT-Boretec has long been at the forefront of HDD innovation, producing everything from drilling rigs to recycling systems. Their latest launch, the MT60 drill rig, can bore up to 600 meters and represents a leap forward in performance and versatility.
Tackling Operator and Commissioning Challenges
HDD rigs are highly complex, requiring precise control of multiple functions. Traditionally, operators struggled with outdated displays that were unresponsive and difficult to navigate—leading to frustration, longer commissioning times, and reduced productivity.
Adding to the challenge, each machine variant required its own custom software program, a time-consuming process that slowed delivery and complicated maintenance.
The ProCon and Danfoss Solution
To solve these issues, AT-Boretec partnered with ProCon automatic systems GmbH & Co. KG. Together, they integrated the Danfoss DM1200 display, a 12-inch touchscreen designed for rugged off-highway applications. Key advantages included:
-
Outstanding touch responsiveness, even with gloves
-
Fast processing and clear visualization from CAN networks
-
Wide viewing angles and high frame rates for camera feeds
-
Ergonomic control with the Danfoss HMR CAN Rotary
Using the Danfoss PLUS+1 platform, ProCon created parameter-based software that allows commissioning teams to configure machines directly through the display. With over 230 selectable parameters, one program now supports all machine variants.
Real Results: Faster, Smarter, More Efficient
The impact has been profound. Commissioning times dropped from 7–8 days to just a fraction of that, while operators benefit from clearer fault diagnostics, intuitive navigation, and reliable touch performance.
Customers report flawless performance even in harsh environments, reduced downtime, and improved machine control. As Kevin Herth, Managing Director at ProCon, explains:
“In the past, commissioning was a long run because you always needed to develop a new program. Now, thanks to PLUS+1 software programming, everything is much, much faster.”
Looking Ahead: Future-Proofing HDD Rigs
Development continues at pace, with ProCon and AT-Boretec releasing new features monthly. The next wave includes video and image display capabilities, as well as infotainment functions for operators.
As Andreas Willmes, Operations Development Manager at AT-Boretec, summarizes:
“By implementing the DM1200 in our HDD drilling rigs, we’ve achieved a significant increase in flexibility and are well-prepared for the future.”
Final Thoughts
The path to Europe’s renewable energy future will be paved by advanced technologies like HDD. With the combination of AT-Boretec’s engineering expertise, ProCon’s integration skills, and Danfoss’ robust display technology, the industry is better equipped than ever to meet the ambitious targets ahead.
Efficient, operator-friendly, and future-ready—these innovations aren’t just improving drilling rigs, they’re powering the energy transition itself.
