NEWS
Embedded Files
MAG X Pro Demonstration Successfully Completes Challenging HDD Pilot Bore in Indonesia
November 19–25, 2025 | Indonesia
PT. HBDS recently conducted a MAG X Pro field demonstration in Indonesia, supporting an HDD project involving challenging ground conditions and multiple existing underground steel pipelines.
Tackling Challenging Conditions
The pilot bore was planned to reach depths of more than 15 metres, with the bore path passing through a narrow corridor between existing steel pipes (active gas & petrol pipe).
Using the MAG X Pro with an Echo 50XF transmitter, the team conducted an initial noise check and depth forecast before selecting the most suitable frequency for the bore.
As drilling progressed, the team encountered increasingly difficult ground conditions and significant interference from the surrounding underground infrastructure. Different frequencies and power settings were tested to optimise the system's performance.
A New Approach
Following further evaluation, the team returned to the site with an Echo 75XF transmitter and developed a revised frequency strategy specifically for the challenging conditions.
The results were impressive.
The MAG X Pro successfully progressed to approximately the 37th rod with stable signal reception and consistent drill-head positioning, despite the surrounding steel pipelines.
The existing pipelines were subsequently exposed and confirmed to be positioned on both sides of the bore, leaving only approximately 4 metres of clearance between them.
Successful Bore Completion
The pilot bore resumed and successfully passed through the narrow corridor between the existing pipelines, reaching the exit pit without major tracking issues.
The project team was highly impressed with the MAG X Pro's performance and its ability to maintain reliable tracking in a challenging underground environment.
This demonstration highlighted the importance of having a locating system that can adapt to changing ground conditions and interference through different frequency and power options.
MAG X Pro — Built to Perform When Conditions Get Tough.
Page updated
Report abuse