The two new pile driver models from Vermeer combine efficient operation and accuracy into a compact, lightweight machines well suited for working on smaller solar installation projects, congested jobsites and civil fencing and guardrail installation applications.

With a 15ft (4.6m) mast that can remain fully assembled when transporting and aided by a 90° rotating platform, the design of the PD5 and PD5R helps ease the setup and teardown process. With transportation weights of 10,350lbs (4,694.7kg) for the PD5 and 10,300lbs (4,672kg) for the PD5R, multiple units can be transported on a single trailer.

The PD5 features machine-integrated controls located on the side of the machine. The PD5R features a full-function wireless remote control that can engage the hammer, accurately align the pile to complete verticality using the auto plumb feature and position the machine.

Both machines can use an optional laser receiver or a compatible third-party GPS system to help improve productivity by better aligning the machine to the specified pile install location.

"The solar industry has experienced tremendous growth in the last few years, and the Vermeer PD10 and PD10R pile drivers have been among the most widespread machines used for installing ground-mount solar piles," explained Ed Savage, product manager at Vermeer. "Of course, not every job site is the same, so we created the new PD5R and PD5 pile drivers to give contractors smaller and more lightweight options. These units include many of the same features as the PD10 and have similar productivity in a variety of soil conditions."

Both pile drivers are powered by a Cat 49hp (36.5kW) Tier 4 Final diesel engine, have a forward travel speed of 2.6mph (4.18km/h) so operators can move quickly from pile to pile and feature a mast pull-down that is rigidly attached to the mast chain to deliver powerful force.