The recent bauma 2025 made it clear that the future of pipeline construction is trenchless, and German manufacturer TRACTO used the event to launch a series of new and upgraded products.
With the Munich trade fair drawing more than 600,000 visitors to inspect the wares of some excess 3600 exhibitors, TRACTO took full advantage of the platform to highlight how its latest technologies can make pipeline work faster, safer and more sustainable.
Among of the main highlights was the launch of new horizontal directional drilling (HDD) rigs.
The GRUNDODRILL JCS300 stood out as the most powerful jetting rig in its class.
With 300kN of thrust and pullback, the unit is built for long bores and demanding projects. Able to hold 70 4.5m drill rods, this rig helping crews work faster with fewer interruptions. It also includes smart automation features to support safer and more efficient drilling.
Sitting right next door, TRACTO introduced the GRUNDODRILL 20ACS.
This machine is built for challenging ground conditions, using a dual-tube drill rod system and support tools to handle rock drilling and complex projects with ease. Nicknamed the ‘Rockstar’, it quickly attracted interest and several buyers at the show.
TRACTO also presented its fully electric HDD rig, the GRUNDODRILL JCS130E.
After successful testing on real construction sites, this 130kN rig is now available as a production model. It offers the same performance as diesel-powered units but with much lower emissions, making it a smart choice for contractors focused on sustainability.
In addition to power and performance, TRACTO is also focused on safety and data. One example is the ORFEUS radar drill head.This new tool helps detect unknown obstacles during drilling, improving safety and reducing the risk of damaging other utilities.
Supporting this innovation, TRACTO also developed special drill rods with built-in data cables. These rods can send large amounts of information back to the operator, enabling real-time monitoring and smarter control.
While the new products drew much attention, TRACTO’s existing solutions remain in high demand.
The GRUNDOMAT soil displacement hammers continue to be a popular choice for fast, trenchless installation of house connections. With no need for no digging and reduced surface damage, these units are designed to be easy to use.
For more complex routes, TRACTO’s GRUNDOSTEER guided rod pushers and GRUNDOPIT mini rigs provide better control and precision. These tools are ideal for urban areas or sites with existing infrastructure.
Another area of growing interest is trenchless pipe renewal, and TRACTO’s GRUNDOBURST systems are designed to replace damaged pipes without the need to dig.
Although bursting technology has been around for years, it’s now seen as one of the most sustainable ways to renew old networks. As more utilities face ageing infrastructure, demand for long-term, low-impact solutions like GRUNDOBURST is increasing.
Beyond the machines themselves, TRACTO offers strong support throughout the project lifecycle. This includes training, expert help, flexible finance options and long-term service agreements.
Many visitors to bauma 2025 took advantage of new maintenance and warranty packages, helping to protect their investment and reduce downtime.
TRACTO Sales Managing Director Florian Gies said the response at the event exceeded expectations.
“The strong interest and number of orders show we’re solving real problems for our customers,” he said. “Our goal is to help them work more efficiently and sustainably, and we’re proud to lead the way.”
The company’s open and practical stand design at the show helped visitors explore specific areas of interest, such as house connections, network installation and pipe renewal.
Do you have news for the international trenchless industry? Contact Journalist Gerald Lynch at gerald.lynch@primecreative.com.au
