As a long recognized leader and innovator in the Drilled Shaft Industry, Watson is uniquely qualified to design and manufacture drill rigs for drilled shaft construction. Having originated as drilling contractors, 4 generations of the Watson family have understood the advantage of using the most dependable, versatile and productive equipment available as well as the essential nature of exceptional customer support.
AVAILABLE PRODUCTS
1100 Drill Rig
2500 Drill Rig
Why we work with Watson
Top crowd
Watson’s top crowd system applies the downward force to the top of the kelly rather than through a rotary/bar locking system. The controllable outer bar can drill the full length without moving the rotary eliminating the need to lock the outer bar. The wear and tear on the rotary from crowd forces is eliminated while also allowing the operator to drill straighter holes.
Freefall winch
Controlled freefall is a critical part of productive drilling. The freefall rate of speed is adjustable to meet the needs of the operator and demands of the auger and bar arrangement. Combined with 2-speed raise, unparalleled cycle times are achieved.
Balanced for big tools
Swinging big tools is not just about clearing the auger. Watson rigs are designed with the pull needed for large diameters, the clearance to swing big tools around the tracks, and most importantly, the balance to remain safe at maximum drill radius and off the side.
Hydraulic pilot control systems
Time tested pilot controls provide superior control and feel, easier diagnostics and with fewer headaches and obsolescence than electronics. Manual levels on all hydraulic models allow for even easier diagnostics or override.
Heavy dut kelly bars
Watson kelly bars have long been known for their longevity and with the heavy duty design of round locking bars, the maintenance intervals will be in years rather than months.
Larger diameter hydraulic rotary
The larger the rotary, the bigger the Kelly bars, the bigger the bearings, the less wear and tear. Larger diameter also means more kelly bars for greater depth without trading off kelly strength, tube thickness and drive lug area.
Round and square kellys
Heavy duty Kelly bars made from high strength alloy steel are standard on Watson rigs. All hydraulic models have quickly interchangeable inserts that allow for either square friction or round locking to suit your drilling needs.
Single layer grooved kelly winch
Fitted with grooved winch drum big enough to keep all of wire rope on one layer, speed and maximum pull are achieved along with excellent rope management.