Line and Grade Steering System

HEMI line and grade steering system has the capability of steering the pipe in any desired direction. This patented design features bearings in the steering hinges and the steering knuckle that increases its durability and robustness. The grade is monitored by using a water level, while the line is monitored by using a sonde on the nose of the steering head. Once the line and grade are determined using this system any corrections if required are made by turning the steering rod from the pit. To facilitate easier turning, a torque multiplier is used behind the steering knuckle (see diagram below). This reduces the effort required to turn by four times. Depending upon several factors such as size of the casing, type of soil, presence of ground water, and the amount of bentonite lubrication used it may be possible to steer the pipe without a torque multiplier for up to 150 ft. However, the effort required to turn the steering rods is greatly reduced using a torque multiplier. It is routinely possible to turn the steering head using a simple pipe wrench even at distances exceeding 500 ft. Typical components of this system are shown in the schematic below.