Front push type hole reamer for horizontal directional drilling rig and horizontal directional drilling rig

By combining the annular rubber ring of the forward-pushing borehole cleaner with the variable-diameter borehole expander, the problems of mud and sand deposition and borehole bending in horizontal well borehole expansion were solved, achieving efficient borehole cleaning and control of borehole straightness, thus improving construction accuracy.

CN120401965BActive Publication Date: 2026-03-24马喜
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-05-12
Publication Date
2026-03-24

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional horizontal directional drilling methods suffer from problems such as mud and sand deposition and borehole curvature during horizontal well enlargement, making it difficult to maintain borehole straightness and cleaning efficiency.

Method used

The front-push type hole expander and cleaner uses the synergistic effect of the annular rubber ring and the variable diameter expander, combined with the detachable structure and the splitter design, to achieve effective removal of mud and sand and control of hole straightness.

Benefits of technology

It improves the efficiency of hole cleaning, maintains the straightness of the holes, and ensures the construction accuracy and stability of pipeline laying.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of trenchless equipment accessories, and provides a front-pushing type hole enlarging and cleaning device for a horizontal directional drilling machine and the horizontal directional drilling machine. The front-pushing type hole enlarging and cleaning device for the horizontal directional drilling machine comprises a main shaft, a plurality of hole cleaning assemblies and a variable-diameter hole enlarging device. The plurality of hole cleaning assemblies are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the main shaft. The variable-diameter hole enlarging device comprises a first positioning block, a second positioning block and a plurality of supporting rods. The first positioning block and the second positioning block are detachably sleeved on the main shaft. The first positioning block is located between the second positioning block and the plurality of hole cleaning assemblies, and the diameter of the first positioning block is smaller than that of the second positioning block. The plurality of supporting rods are arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the main shaft, and the side, away from the main shaft, of each supporting rod is provided with a tooth. Through the cooperative action of the annular rubber ring of the hole cleaning assembly and the supporting rod structure of the variable-diameter hole enlarging device, the mud and sand at the bottom of the hole can be effectively stirred and carried out, and meanwhile, the hole diameter and direction can be controlled through the variable-diameter design, so that the problems of mud and sand deposition and hole bending during the hole enlarging of the traditional horizontal well are solved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of trenchless equipment accessories technology, and in particular to a forward-push type hole enlarger and cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs and a horizontal directional drilling rig. Background Technology

[0002] In the trenchless technology industry, horizontal directional drilling is a trenchless pipeline installation method that uses a horizontal directional drilling rig to drill guide holes and enlarge holes according to a designed trajectory, and then pulls the pipeline back through obstacles. It is used for the laying or upgrading of pipelines for oil, natural gas, tap water, sewage, gas, electricity, telecommunications, etc.

[0003] Currently, most directional drilling uses directional drilling rigs for advancement. The method for removing mud and sand during construction still relies on the traditional method of drilling vertical shafts. However, due to the different angles of vertical and horizontal shafts, applying this method to horizontal shafts is ineffective. This is because during borehole reaming, the drilled sand and gravel always sink due to gravity. In vertical shaft drilling, the drill rod and drill bit continuously agitate the bentonite-containing mud and sand at the bottom of the borehole, and by continuously pumping water and mud into the borehole, most of the sand and gravel can be carried out. In horizontal shafts, the sand remains entirely at the bottom. When pulling back the reamer, it can only agitate a small portion of the mud in the hole; most of the mud remains unmoved, and the enlarged hole is larger than the diameter of the reamer.

[0004] When reaming holes with a directional drilling rig, the varying hardness of underground soil layers can lead to encounters with sandy or clayey soil layers. When encountering harder clayey soil layers, the reaming speed slows down, resulting in a roughly circular hole. However, when encountering sandy soil layers, the reaming speed increases, producing a hole diameter much larger than the reamer's diameter. Furthermore, without control over its movement within the hole, the reamer may arbitrarily excavate the soft hole walls, potentially causing the hole to deviate from a straight line and become extremely curved, leading to pipeline laying failure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide a horizontal directional drilling rig and a forward-pushing hole enlarger and cleaner, which has the advantages of improving hole cleaning efficiency and maintaining the straightness of the hole.

[0006] This application provides a push-type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs, the technical solution of which is as follows: including: a spindle;

[0007] Multiple hole cleaning assemblies are spaced apart along the axial direction of the main shaft. Each hole cleaning assembly includes a sleeve, a circular fixing plate, and an annular rubber ring. The sleeve is fitted onto the main shaft, the circular fixing plate is fitted onto the outside of the sleeve, and the annular rubber ring is located on one side of the circular fixing plate and surrounds the sleeve. The annular rubber ring and the circular fixing plate are set at an acute angle on the side away from the sleeve, and the maximum outer diameter of the annular rubber ring is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the circular fixing plate.

[0008] The variable diameter reamer includes a first positioning block, a second positioning block, and multiple support rods. The first and second positioning blocks are detachably mounted on the spindle. The first positioning block is located between the second positioning block and multiple hole cleaning components, and the diameter of the first positioning block is smaller than that of the second positioning block. The multiple support rods are spaced apart circumferentially along the spindle. One end of each support rod is detachably connected to the first positioning block, and the other end is detachably connected to the second positioning block. The side of the support rod away from the spindle is provided with teeth.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, one end of the support rod is hinged to the first positioning block, and the other end is hinged to the second positioning block.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the invention, the support rod extends obliquely in the circumferential direction relative to the main shaft.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the second positioning block is provided with a water storage space and a water spray hole communicating with the water storage space, and the water spray hole is located on the side of the second positioning block facing the first positioning block.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the second positioning block has a plurality of water spray holes, which are arranged at intervals around the main shaft.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the spindle includes a cleaning section and a reaming section, a plurality of cleaning components are sleeved on the cleaning section, a variable diameter reamer is disposed on the reaming section, and the cleaning section and the reaming section are connected by a transfer case.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a guide head is provided at one end of the hole cleaning section. The diameter of the guide head gradually decreases in the direction away from the hole cleaning assembly, and the annular rubber ring is located on the side of the circular fixing plate away from the guide head.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the hole cleaning section includes a head section and a mounting section, a guide head is disposed on the head section, the head section and the mounting section are detachably connected, and a first octagonal sleeve is sleeved between the head section and the mounting section.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning section includes a connecting section, which is detachably connected to the end of the mounting section away from the head section, and a second octagonal sleeve is provided between the mounting section and the connecting section.

[0017] A horizontal directional drilling rig according to a second aspect of the present invention includes:

[0018] The equipment body; the drill rod, one end of which is connected to the equipment body; the aforementioned horizontal directional drilling rig uses a push-type hole reamer and hole cleaner, the spindle of which is connected to the drill rod.

[0019] The horizontal directional drilling rig according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the aforementioned forward-push type reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs, and therefore has all the technical effects of the aforementioned forward-push reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs, which will not be repeated here.

[0020] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.

[0021] As can be seen from the above, the horizontal directional drilling rig and the forward-pushing hole enlarger and cleaning tool provided in this application can effectively agitate and remove mud and sand from the bottom of the hole through the synergistic effect of the annular rubber ring of the hole cleaning component and the support rod structure of the variable diameter hole enlarger. At the same time, the variable diameter design controls the hole enlargement diameter and direction, which solves the problems of mud and sand deposition and hole bending during traditional horizontal well hole enlargement. It has the advantages of improving hole cleaning efficiency and maintaining hole straightness. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the forward-push type hole enlarger and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the axial structure of the variable diameter expander provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure at the first octagonal sleeve provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the axial structure of the hole cleaning assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure label:

[0028] 1. Main spindle; 11. Hole cleaning section; 111. Head section; 1111. Guide head; 112. Mounting section; 113. First octagonal sleeve; 114. Second octagonal sleeve; 12. Hole reaming section; 13. Divider; 2. Hole cleaning assembly; 21. Sleeve; 22. Circular fixing plate; 221. Fan-shaped fixing plate; 23. Annular rubber ring; 231. Fan-shaped rubber ring; 3. Variable diameter reamer; 31. First positioning block; 32. Second positioning block; 321. Water spray hole; 33. Support rod; 331. Tooth. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0030] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0031] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] In embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0033] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0034] In existing technologies, horizontal directional drilling is widely used in trenchless pipeline laying. However, when enlarging holes in soft strata, traditional reamers are prone to oscillation, resulting in excessively large hole diameters and deviations from their trajectory. At the same time, sediment accumulation is difficult to remove effectively. Due to the difference in strata hardness, the reamer lacks stable constraints during the enlarging process, making it difficult to control the straightness of the hole. Furthermore, sediment deposition hinders the normal advancement of the reamer, ultimately causing hole collapse or deformation.

[0035] Therefore, as Figure 1 As shown, this application proposes a forward-push type reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs, including a spindle, multiple hole cleaner components 2 spaced apart along the spindle axial direction, and a variable-diameter reamer 3. The hole cleaner component 2 includes a sleeve 21 fitted onto the spindle, a circular fixing plate 22 outside the sleeve 21, and an annular rubber ring 23 on one side of the fixing plate. The annular rubber ring 23 and the circular fixing plate 22 are arranged at an acute angle on the side away from the sleeve 21, and its maximum outer diameter is larger than that of the circular fixing plate 22. The variable-diameter reamer 3 includes a first positioning block 31 and a second positioning block 32 detachably fitted onto the spindle. The diameter of the first positioning block 31 is smaller than that of the second positioning block 32. Multiple support rods 33 are spaced apart along the circumference of the spindle connecting the two positioning blocks, and the support rods 33 have teeth 331 on the side away from the spindle. The forward-push type reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs can be used in locations where there is no drill outlet in front, such as between buildings in urban areas or anchor piles in mines.

[0036] The main shaft refers to the central shaft that supports the hole cleaning assembly 2 and the variable diameter expander 3. It can be designed in sections for easy installation and disassembly. The hole cleaning assembly 2 refers to the mud and sand cleaning unit distributed along the axial direction of the main shaft. Its sleeve 21 is fixed to the main shaft via an interference fit or keyway connection, and a circular fixing plate 22 is welded or bolted to the outside of the sleeve 21. The annular rubber ring 23 is an elastic rubber ring that is fixed to the side of the circular fixing plate 22 by adhesive bonding or snap-fit. Its acute-angle inclined design forms a scraping cutting edge. The variable diameter expander 3 is a cutting device with an adjustable diameter. The first positioning block 31 and the second positioning block 32 can adopt a split flange structure, and the support rod 33 is connected between the two positioning blocks by hinge or thread. The tooth 331 refers to a carbide cutting tool, which is fixed to the outer surface of the support rod 33 by welding or bolting.

[0037] Specifically, in the hole cleaning assembly 2, the annular rubber ring 23, with its larger outer diameter, preferentially contacts the hole wall, and its acute-angled inclined surface scrapes mud and sand towards the main shaft direction. The circular fixing plate 22 provides rigid support to prevent deformation of the rubber ring. Multiple hole cleaning assemblies 2 clean the hole wall in stages along the axial direction, forming a smooth channel. For example... Figure 2 As shown, in the variable diameter reamer 3, the support rod 33 forms an outward expansion angle through the diameter difference between the two positioning blocks. The teeth 331 cut the strata during rotation. The support rods 33 are arranged circumferentially to form a stable support frame, constraining the swing amplitude of the reamer. The second positioning block 32 serves as a front-end guide reference, guiding the reamer along the cleaned hole trajectory to avoid cutting into uncleaned areas.

[0038] Through the above technical solution, this application can remove mud and sand from the borehole wall in stages in soft strata, reduce the cutting resistance of the reamer, and avoid borehole collapse and deformation. The multi-angle support frame formed by the support rod 33 limits the swing amplitude of the reamer, ensuring the straightness of the cutting trajectory. At the same time, the detachable structure facilitates the adjustment of the reaming diameter to adapt to different geological conditions. The borehole cleaning component 2 and the variable diameter reamer 3 work together to achieve a combination of efficient borehole cleaning and precise borehole reaming.

[0039] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the circular fixing plate 22 is divided into multiple fan-shaped fixing plates 221, and the annular rubber ring 23 is divided into multiple fan-shaped rubber rings 231. Each fan-shaped fixing plate 221 and a fan-shaped rubber ring 231 form a fan-shaped structure. At the same time, each fan-shaped rubber ring 231 can be hinged to the fan-shaped fixing plate 221 through a connecting plate. In this way, each group of fan-shaped structures can operate independently. The fan-shaped rubber ring 231 can adaptively adjust the angle formed between itself and the fan-shaped fixing plate 221 according to different positions in the circumferential direction of the hole through the connecting plate, thereby adapting to the protrusions or depressions at different positions of the hole, which is beneficial to enhance its passability and reduce jamming.

[0040] This application further proposes that one end of the support rod 33 is hinged to the first positioning block 31, and the other end is hinged to the second positioning block 32.

[0041] The hinged connection refers to a connection method that uses a revolute joint to connect two components, allowing them to rotate relative to each other with a single degree of freedom. Specifically, this can be achieved using a pin-and-sleeve structure, where the pin passes through the end of the support rod 33 and forms a rotational fit with the mounting hole on the positioning block. This hinged structure allows the support rod 33 to be adjusted in angle around the pin axis during operation to adapt to changes in resistance caused by different geological conditions.

[0042] Specifically, when the reamer rapidly expands a hole in sandy soil, the hinged structure of the support rod 33 provides a controllable swing space, and its extension direction can be automatically adjusted according to soil resistance, thereby suppressing excessive lateral swing of the support rod 33 in soft soil layers. When encountering hard clay layers, the hinged support rod 33 can produce adaptive deflection, avoiding stress concentration caused by rigid connections. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows multiple support rods 33 to work together to keep the axis of the reamer consistent with the preset trajectory during operation, effectively constraining the non-linear movement of the reamer within the hole.

[0043] Through the above technical solution, this application can effectively control the lateral swing amplitude of the expander in the hole, avoid the deviation of the expansion trajectory caused by the rigid fixation of the support rod 33, ensure that the axis of the hole formed by the expansion remains straight and the design trajectory extends, and improve the construction accuracy of pipeline laying.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, this application further proposes that the support rod 33 extends obliquely relative to the main shaft in its circumferential direction. That is, the extension direction of the support rod 33 is set at an angle to the axial direction of the main shaft, and the axis of the support rod 33 and the axis of the main shaft are not in the same plane.

[0045] The extension direction being at an angle to the axis direction refers to the support rod 33 forming a non-perpendicular tilt angle relative to the main shaft axis. This can be achieved by misaligning the hinge points of the two ends of the support rod 33 with the hinge points of the first positioning block 31 and the second positioning block 32, respectively, and adjusting the circumferential position of the hinge points to form a predetermined angle. The support rod 33's axis not being in the same plane as the main shaft axis means that the support rod 33 forms a three-dimensional tilt relative to the main shaft axis in space. This can be achieved by staggering the hinge points of adjacent support rods 33 along the circumference of the main shaft, forming a spiral distribution structure around the main shaft.

[0046] Specifically, when the spindle drives the variable-diameter reamer 3 to rotate, the inclined support rod 33 unfolds outward under centrifugal force, and its teeth 331 contact the hole wall at an inclined angle. Since the extension direction of the support rod 33 forms a dynamic angle with the rotation direction, the radial component force generated by the support rod 33 during rotation can continuously abut against the hole wall, constraining the lateral movement of the reamer. For example, when the inclination angle of the support rod 33 is set to 15-45 degrees, the contact trajectory of the support rod 33 on the hole wall forms a spiral guide surface. When the reamer shifts laterally, the contact pressure between the support rod 33 and the hole wall increases, forcing the reamer to return to its axial direction. Simultaneously, the three-dimensional inclined layout of the support rod 33 creates alternating constraint points during rotation, effectively suppressing the sway amplitude of the reamer in a single plane.

[0047] Through the above technical solution, this application can effectively suppress the lateral sway of the reamer in sandy soil layers and prevent the borehole trajectory from deviating from the design axis. The inclined structure of the support rod 33 generates a self-correcting force during rotation. When the reamer shifts due to differences in soil hardness, the contact pressure difference between the support rod 33 and the borehole wall drives the reamer to automatically return to the predetermined trajectory. This structure is particularly suitable for long-distance horizontal drilling operations. By constraining the radial degree of freedom of the reamer, it ensures that the formed borehole has the required straightness, providing a precise guiding channel for subsequent pipeline pullback.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, this application further proposes that the second positioning block 32 is provided with a water storage space and a water spray hole 321 communicating with the water storage space, and the water spray hole 321 is located on the side of the second positioning block 32 facing the first positioning block 31.

[0049] The water storage space refers to the hollow structure inside the second positioning block 32, used to store water. This can be achieved using an internal cavity or a removable water tank, ensuring a continuous water supply during the hole enlargement process. The spray hole 321 refers to the opening on the side of the second positioning block 32. This can be achieved using multiple small holes evenly distributed along the circumference. Water is sprayed directionally through the spray hole 321, impacting the mud and sand in the working area of ​​the tooth 331 and promoting mud flow.

[0050] Specifically, during the borehole enlargement process, water from the water storage space is sprayed out towards the first positioning block 31 through the water jet 321. The impact of the water flow suspends the sediment deposited at the bottom of the borehole and mixes it with the mud. The positioning of the water jet 321 ensures that the water flow directly acts on the working area of ​​the teeth 331 of the support rod 33, flushing away loose sediment and promoting the circulation of mud within the borehole. The continuous water supply from the water storage space ensures the stability of the spray pressure and prevents deviation of the borehole enlargement trajectory due to local sediment accumulation.

[0051] Through the above technical solution, this application utilizes directional water spraying to enhance mud fluidity, effectively agitating the mud and sand deposited at the bottom of the hole, suspending it in the mud and carrying it out by the hole cleaning component 2. The position of the water spray hole 321 optimizes the water flow scouring direction, reduces mud and sand adhesion in the working area of ​​the support rod 33, and improves the straightness of the hole enlargement trajectory, thereby improving hole cleaning efficiency and hole enlargement quality.

[0052] Please refer to the reference. Figure 1 and Figure 2 This application further proposes that the second positioning block 32 has multiple water spray holes 321, which are arranged at intervals around the main shaft.

[0053] The multiple water jets 321 refer to the hole structure provided on the side of the second positioning block 32 facing the first positioning block 31, which can be implemented using equidistant or non-equidistant circular through holes. This structure expands the mud coverage area by increasing the number of water jets 321, solving the problem of the limited flushing range of a single water jet 321. The arrangement around the main axis means that the water jets 321 are distributed in a ring array with the main axis as the center, which can be implemented using a uniform or non-uniform circumferential arrangement. This layout avoids flushing blind spots through circumferential uniform distribution and enhances the scouring and coverage of sediments at the bottom of the holes.

[0054] Specifically, after the mud enters the spray holes 321 through the water storage space, it forms multiple jets under pressure. Because the spray holes 321 are spaced apart around the main axis, the jets form a continuous annular impact zone within the borehole, generating uniform impact force on different directions of the borehole wall. When the reamer moves, this jet array continuously flushes the mud and sand at the bottom and sidewalls of the borehole, ensuring that the deposits are fully suspended in the mud. The spaced arrangement effectively avoids interference between adjacent jets, ensuring balanced flushing pressure in all directions, thereby maintaining the straightness of the borehole wall morphology.

[0055] Through the above technical solution, this application solves the problem of sediment residue caused by uneven flushing during the horizontal well enlargement process, improving the cleanliness of the borehole while maintaining the straightness of the enlargement trajectory, ensuring the stability of subsequent pipeline laying. Multi-angle balanced flushing effectively avoids secondary sediment settling, significantly improving borehole cleaning efficiency and enlargement quality.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, this application further proposes that the spindle includes a cleaning section 11 and a reaming section 12, multiple cleaning components 2 are sleeved on the cleaning section 11, and a variable diameter reamer 3 is disposed on the reaming section 12. The cleaning section 11 and the reaming section 12 are connected by a transfer case 13.

[0057] The cleaning section 11 refers to the area on the spindle used to install the cleaning assembly 2. Specifically, it can be made of a single shaft section of high-strength alloy steel, used to centrally arrange multiple cleaning assemblies 2 to directionally remove deposits from the hole walls. The reaming section 12 refers to the area on the spindle where the variable-diameter reamer 3 is installed. Specifically, it can be made with a surface heat treatment process to enhance wear resistance, used to support the support rod 33 for controlled diameter reaming. The transfer case 13 refers to the power distribution device connecting the cleaning section 11 and the reaming section 12. Specifically, it can be implemented using a gearbox structure with a clutch mechanism, allowing the two sections to independently adjust their speed or torque.

[0058] Specifically, the hole-cleaning section 11 and the hole-reaming section 12 are connected by a transfer case 13 to form a segmented power transmission system. When operating in hard soil layers, the transfer case 13 can reduce the rotational speed of the hole-cleaning section 11 and increase the torque output of the hole-reaming section 12, ensuring that the teeth 331 of the support rod 33 fully break up the hard strata. In sandy soil layers, the transfer case 13 prioritizes increasing the operating speed of the hole-cleaning section 11, allowing the annular rubber ring 23 to quickly scrape away loose mud and sand from the soft hole wall. Independent control of the two sections avoids the problem of mutual constraint between hole-cleaning efficiency and hole-reaming speed that occurs with traditional integral spindles in alternating soft and hard strata. The clutch mechanism of the transfer case 13 allows the two sections to decouple their power according to real-time working conditions. For example, when the hole-reaming section 12 encounters hard rock, the power to the hole-cleaning section 11 can be temporarily disconnected to concentrate energy for rock breaking.

[0059] Through the above technical solution, this application effectively solves the problem of borehole bending caused by the coupling of borehole cleaning and reaming functions. The method of controlling the two-stage power output by the transfer case 13 ensures both the continuous cleaning of the borehole wall deposits by the borehole cleaning component 2 and the stable reaming of the borehole diameter in different strata. The segmented structure enables a dynamic balance between borehole cleaning and reaming operations. In sandy soil layers, increasing the borehole cleaning frequency prevents borehole collapse, while in hard strata, increasing the reaming torque maintains the straightness of the borehole.

[0060] This application further proposes a forward-push type hole enlarger and cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs. One end of the hole cleaning section 11 is provided with a guide head 1111. The diameter of the guide head 1111 gradually decreases in the direction away from the hole cleaning assembly 2, and the annular rubber ring 23 is located on the side of the circular fixing plate 22 away from the guide head 1111.

[0061] The guide head 1111 refers to the tapered guide structure located at the end of the hole-cleaning section 11. Specifically, it can be made of forged alloy steel into a frustum-shaped structure, with its diameter decreasing linearly along the axis away from the hole-cleaning assembly 2. This structure forms a guide reference surface through its tapered shape, enabling it to make multi-point contact with the inner wall of the hole, thereby correcting the travel direction of the hole expander.

[0062] The annular rubber ring 23, located on the side of the circular fixed plate 22 opposite to the guide head 1111, indicates that the elastic scraping element and the guide head 1111 are arranged in a front-to-back configuration. Specifically, it can be made of nitrile rubber and fixed to the rear side of the fixed plate by bolts. This arrangement allows the rubber ring to generate a reverse squeezing effect when it is axially advanced, enhancing the scraping effect on the hole wall residue.

[0063] Specifically, when the reamer advances within the hole, the tapered front surface of the guide head 1111 preferentially contacts the hole wall, and its tapered structure guides the reamer along a predetermined trajectory. When encountering local deviation in the hole, the tapered surface of the guide head 1111 generates an automatic correction torque through multi-point contact with the hole wall, forcing the reamer to return to the correct path. An annular rubber ring 23 is positioned behind the guide head 1111. During advancement, the rubber ring undergoes elastic deformation under the reaction force of the hole wall, forming a backward-tilting scraping angle that effectively removes mud and sand adhering to the hole wall. The guide head 1111 and the hole-cleaning assembly 2 form a rigid-elastic composite structure, ensuring both axial advancement stability and allowing the hole-cleaning element to adapt to local deformations in the hole.

[0064] Through the above technical solution, this application solves the problem of borehole reamers deviating from their excavation trajectory in soft strata due to the lack of guiding references, by establishing a continuous directional correction capability through the tapered guide head 1111. Simultaneously, the layout of the borehole cleaning assembly 2 is optimized, enabling the annular rubber ring 23 to effectively scrape within the borehole area corrected by the guide head 1111, avoiding blind spots in borehole cleaning caused by irregular borehole shapes. The front-to-back cooperation between the guide head 1111 and the rubber ring integrates the dual functions of trajectory control and borehole wall cleaning, improving borehole cleaning efficiency while ensuring borehole straightness.

[0065] Please refer to the reference. Figure 1 and Figure 3 This application further proposes that the hole cleaning section 11 includes a head section 111 and an installation section 112, the guide head 1111 is disposed on the head section 111, the head section 111 and the installation section 112 are detachably connected, and a first octagonal sleeve 113 is sleeved between the head section 111 and the installation section 112.

[0066] The head section 111 refers to the partial structure of the guide head 1111, which can be made of forged steel and has an octagonal prism shape on its outer surface to transmit torque and mate with an octagonal sleeve. The mounting section 112 refers to the main body of the cleaning section 11, which can be a tubular structure of the same material as the head section 111, with one end machined into an octagonal prism interface that matches the head section 111, allowing for detachable connection via threads or snap-fit. The first octagonal sleeve 113 refers to an octagonal sleeve 21 fitted at the connection between the head section 111 and the mounting section 112, which can be made of high-strength alloy steel that has been quenched, with its inner wall machined into an octagonal hole structure that matches the outer surfaces of the head section 111 and the mounting section 112, used to restrict relative rotation between the head section 111 and the mounting section 112. Detachable connection refers to the separate assembly of the head section 111 and the mounting section 112 through threads, snap-fit, or flanges, specifically using trapezoidal threads and anti-loosening nuts for stable locking.

[0067] Specifically, the head section 111 and the mounting section 112 are axially positioned via an octagonal prism interface. A first octagonal sleeve 113 is fitted onto the connection, using its octagonal structure to restrict circumferential relative displacement. When the guide head 1111 needs replacement, rotating the first octagonal sleeve 113 separates the head section 111 from the mounting section 112, allowing maintenance to be completed by simply disassembling the head section 111. During assembly, the octagonal sleeve is pressed between the stepped surfaces of the head section 111 and the mounting section 112, with axial preload enhancing connection rigidity and preventing loosening due to vibration during operation. The coaxiality of the head section 111 and the mounting section 112 is ensured by precision machining of the octagonal prism interface, ensuring that the axis of the guide head 1111 always coincides with that of the cleaning section 11, reducing eccentric sway.

[0068] Through the above technical solution, this application solves the problem of difficulty in replacing the guide head 1111 caused by the fixed structure of the hole-cleaning section 11. Partial replacement is achieved through a detachable connection, reducing maintenance costs. The first octagonal sleeve 113 enhances the connection stability between the head section 111 and the mounting section 112, preventing the reamer from swaying due to loose connections during operation and ensuring the accuracy of the hole-reaming trajectory. The split structure allows for precise control of the coaxiality of the guide head 1111 and the hole-cleaning section 11, reducing the risk of trajectory deviation due to eccentricity.

[0069] This application further proposes that the cleaning section 11 includes a connecting section, which is detachably connected to the end of the mounting section 112 away from the head section 111, and a second octagonal sleeve 114 is sleeved between the mounting section 112 and the connecting section.

[0070] The connecting section refers to a segmented structure used to extend the length of the cleaning section 11. Specifically, it can be connected to the installation section 112 using a flange and bolts. The segmented design facilitates adjustment of the overall length of the cleaning section 11 according to actual working conditions. The second octagonal sleeve 114 refers to a sleeve 21 structure with an octagonal inner hole and outer wall. Specifically, it can be formed by forging. Its inner hole mates with the octagonal prism ends of the installation section 112 and the connecting section. The relative rotation is restricted by the contact of the prism surfaces, thereby improving the connection stability.

[0071] Specifically, the installation section 112 and the connecting section are connected at the ends of an octagonal prism structure. The second octagonal sleeve 114 is fitted at the connection point, utilizing the fit between its inner bore facets and the end of the octagonal prism to transmit torque and constrain radial displacement. When the hole cleaner is subjected to asymmetrical loads during hole enlargement, the facets of the second octagonal sleeve 114 can disperse stress, preventing deformation at the connection point due to excessive force at a single point. In addition, the outer wall corner design of the second octagonal sleeve 114 facilitates clamping with external tools, and quick assembly and disassembly are achieved by rotating the sleeve 21 to drive the end of the octagonal prism.

[0072] In some specific embodiments, the octagonal prism ends of the mounting section 112 and the connecting section may be provided with positioning pin holes to fix the axial position and prevent the octagonal sleeve from sliding axially. The outer surface of the second octagonal sleeve 114 may be machined with anti-slip textures, such as knurling or grooves, to enhance the clamping friction.

[0073] Through the above technical solution, this application solves the problem of easy loosening and swaying of the segmented connection structure of the hole cleaning section 11 under dynamic load. By cooperating with the octagonal prism and the octagonal sleeve, the dual functions of torque transmission and radial constraint are realized, ensuring that each component of the hole cleaning section 11 maintains a stable connection under complex working conditions, thereby ensuring the straightness and operational accuracy of the hole enlargement and cleaning process.

[0074] This application further proposes a horizontal directional drilling rig, including a main body, a drill rod, and a forward-push type reamer and hole cleaner for the horizontal directional drilling rig. One end of the drill rod is connected to the main body, and the spindle of the forward-push reamer and hole cleaner is connected to the drill rod.

[0075] The main body of the equipment refers to the device that provides rotational and propulsive power, which can be implemented using a power housing with a hydraulic motor to drive the drill rod for rotation and axial feed. The drill rod is a rod-shaped component that transmits torque and thrust, which can be implemented using a segmented threaded alloy steel pipe to transmit the power from the main body of the equipment to the forward-push reamer and hole cleaner. The forward-push reamer and hole cleaner is a working tool that integrates reaming and hole cleaning functions, which can be implemented using a mechanical structure including a spindle. The spindle is rigidly connected to the drill rod to form a coaxial transmission relationship.

[0076] Specifically, when the hydraulic system of the main body of the equipment drives the drill rod to rotate, the torque is transmitted through the end of the drill rod to the spindle of the forward-push type reamer and hole cleaner, driving the hole cleaner assembly 2 and the variable diameter reamer 3 to rotate synchronously. The annular rubber ring 23 in the hole cleaner assembly 2 forms an acute angle structure with the circular fixed plate 22, generating outward centrifugal force during rotation, pushing the mud and sand near the hole wall towards the rear of the spindle. Simultaneously, the acute angle structure forms a guide slope during axial advancement, reducing frictional resistance with the hole wall. The support rod 33 of the variable diameter reamer 3 is hinged at both ends between the first positioning block 31 and the second positioning block 32. During rotation, it cuts the hole wall through the teeth 331. The hinged structure of the support rod 33 allows it to automatically adjust the support angle when encountering hard strata, maintaining the straightness of the cutting trajectory. The continuous thrust applied by the main body of the equipment enables the reamer and hole cleaner to move stably forward within the hole, simultaneously completing the reaming and mud / sand discharge operations.

[0077] Through the above technical solutions, this application solves the problem of low discharge efficiency caused by mud and sand deposition during the hole enlargement and cleaning process of horizontal directional drilling rigs. It enhances the mud carrying capacity through the acute-angle hole cleaning structure, reducing mud and sand accumulation at the bottom of the hole; maintains the linear movement trajectory of the reamer in the hole through the hinged support of the adjustable support rod 33, avoiding hole bending caused by alternating soft and hard strata; and achieves stable power transmission through the rigid connection between the main body of the equipment and the reamer and cleaning tool, improving the reliability of hole enlargement operations under different geological conditions.

[0078] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only for illustrating the present invention and not for limiting the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present invention do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention and should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for a horizontal directional drilling rig, characterized in that, include: spindle; Multiple hole cleaning assemblies are spaced apart along the axial direction of the main shaft. Each hole cleaning assembly includes a sleeve, a circular fixing plate, and an annular rubber ring. The sleeve is fitted onto the main shaft, the circular fixing plate is fitted onto the outside of the sleeve, and the annular rubber ring is located on one side of the circular fixing plate and surrounds the sleeve. The annular rubber ring and the circular fixing plate are set at an acute angle on the side away from the sleeve, and the maximum outer diameter of the annular rubber ring is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the circular fixing plate. A variable diameter reamer includes a first positioning block, a second positioning block, and multiple support rods. The first positioning block and the second positioning block are detachably mounted on the main shaft. The first positioning block is located between the second positioning block and the multiple hole-cleaning components, and the diameter of the first positioning block is smaller than the diameter of the second positioning block. The multiple support rods are spaced apart circumferentially along the main shaft. One end of each support rod is detachably connected to the first positioning block, and the other end is detachably connected to the second positioning block. The support rods have teeth on the side facing away from the main shaft.

2. The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the support rod is hinged to the first positioning block, and the other end is hinged to the second positioning block.

3. The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to claim 2, characterized in that, The support rod extends obliquely in the circumferential direction relative to the main shaft.

4. The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second positioning block is provided with a water storage space and a water spray hole connected to the water storage space. The water spray hole is located on the side of the second positioning block facing the first positioning block.

5. The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second positioning block has a plurality of water spray holes, which are arranged at intervals around the main shaft.

6. The forward-push type borehole reamer and cleaning device for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The spindle includes a cleaning section and a reaming section. Multiple cleaning components are sleeved on the cleaning section, and the variable diameter reamer is located on the reaming section. The cleaning section and the reaming section are connected by a transfer case.

7. The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to claim 6, characterized in that, One end of the hole cleaning section is provided with a guide head, the diameter of which gradually decreases in the direction away from the hole cleaning assembly, and the annular rubber ring is located on the side of the circular fixing plate away from the guide head.

8. The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to claim 7, characterized in that, The hole cleaning section includes a head section and an installation section. The guide head is disposed on the head section. The head section and the installation section are detachably connected, and a first octagonal sleeve is sleeved between the head section and the installation section.

9. The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cleaning section includes a connecting section, which is detachably connected to the end of the mounting section away from the head section, and a second octagonal sleeve is provided between the mounting section and the connecting section.

10. A horizontal directional drilling rig, comprising: Equipment body; A drill rod, one end of which is connected to the main body of the equipment; The forward-push type hole reamer and hole cleaner for horizontal directional drilling rigs as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the spindle is connected to the drill rod.

Citation Information

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