In today’s infrastructure-driven world, Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) has become the preferred method for installing underground utilities with minimal surface disruption. Success in HDD projects depends on the synergy of various components — from the pilot bore stage to product pullback — and one often underestimated component plays a critical role in nearly every phase: the bolt-on swivel.
At Jiangyin Unique Drilling Tools Co., LTD., we have spent years engineering high-performance HDD solutions, including drill pipes, reamers, adapters, starter rods, housings, and precision-designed directional drilling swivels. Our bolt-on swivels are crafted to deliver reliability and efficiency across the full spectrum of HDD operations.What Are Bolt-on Swivels and Why Are They Crucial?
Bolt-on swivels are mechanical couplings designed to connect drilling or pulling tools while allowing free rotation between components. In HDD, their primary function is to isolate torque — preventing the rotational force generated by the drill rig or reamer from transferring to the product being pulled, such as pipes or conduits.
This protects the integrity of the utility line, reduces the risk of twist-induced failure, and ensures a smoother, more controlled pullback.
How Bolt-on Swivels Enhance Each Stage of HDD
Let’s take a closer look at how bolt-on swivels contribute to the efficiency, safety, and success of HDD operations — from pilot bore to final pullback.
1. Pilot Bore Stage: Preparing for Success
While bolt-on swivels are not typically engaged in the initial bore, the preparation for later integration begins here. Accurate bore path creation and thoughtful tooling selection ensure the swivel will be correctly positioned when transitioning to the next stages.
At Jiangyin Unique, we provide a complete HDD tooling system — starter rods, directional drill pipes, and housing systems — designed to be fully compatible with our swivels and other components.
2. Backreaming Stage: Handling High Torque with Confidence
Once the pilot bore is complete, a reamer is used to enlarge the bore hole. This is where torque becomes a major concern. The rotating reamer can generate significant force, which — if left unchecked — could transfer directly to the pipe or conduit being pulled.
Bolt-on swivels from Jiangyin Unique are engineered to intercept this torque. By allowing the reamer and drill string to rotate freely without twisting the product, our swivels protect both the pulling equipment and the underground utility.
Our swivels are available in a wide range of sizes and load ratings, ensuring the right fit for any backreaming application, whether you're installing fiber optics or large-diameter water lines.
3. Pullback Stage: Smooth, Controlled Product Installation
During product pullback, the pipe or conduit is attached to the reamer via the swivel. This stage demands both mechanical strength and rotational freedom, as the utility product must be pulled into place without rotating or being damaged.
Jiangyin Unique’s bolt-on swivels offer robust tensile strength combined with smooth rotational action, allowing for stress-free installation of fragile or flexible materials. The swivel ensures that even long-distance pullbacks remain stable, reducing the risk of failures or delays.
Why Choose Jiangyin Unique Bolt-on Swivels?
Our bolt-on swivels are the result of years of specialized HDD tooling experience. Designed for easy installation, long-term durability, and exceptional performance, they offer a number of key benefits:
Precision Torque Isolation – Prevents twisting or damage to pulled product
High-Strength Alloy Construction – Built to handle tough soil and rock conditions
Wide Size Compatibility – Available in models suitable for both small and large HDD jobs
Easy Maintenance – Designed for field serviceability with minimal downtime
When used in combination with our complete line of HDD tools — from drill rods to reamers — these swivels become an essential link in a fully integrated, high-performance drilling system.
Final Thoughts
In the complex world of horizontal directional drilling, it’s often the smallest components that make the biggest difference. From the first push of the drill pipe to the final pullback of the product line, bolt-on swivels from Jiangyin Unique Drilling Tools Co., LTD. play a critical role in protecting your investment and improving jobsite efficiency.
Whether you're working on urban telecom infrastructure or rural pipeline installation, trust our swivel technology to deliver safe, reliable, and torque-free pulling performance — at every stage of the job.
www.uniquehdd.com
Jiangyin Unique Drilling Tools Co., LTD.
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