The most sought-after water well drilling rig in the North American market. 6×6 carrier-mounted, top-head drive air rotary — built for depth, reliability, and resale value.
Standard T685 configuration. Individual units vary — contact us for the exact spec sheet on any available rig.
Why this rig commands a premium — and holds its value.
The Schramm T685 is the benchmark water well drilling rig in the United States. Developed by Schramm Inc. (now part of Epiroc), the T685 set the standard for 6×6 carrier-mounted top-head drive air rotary drilling. Thousands of units were built over several decades, and a large installed base means parts availability, trained technicians, and a liquid resale market.
The "685" designation refers to the 685 series top head gearbox — a robust single-reduction gearbox driving hydraulic motors for rotation. The carrier-mounted design integrates the deck engine, compressor, hydraulics, and drilling mast on a single purpose-built 6×6 truck chassis, giving the T685 exceptional mobility on and off road.
Configured for down-the-hole (DTH) hammer drilling with 900–1150 cfm of air at 350 psi, the T685 drills efficiently through hard rock formations — the method of choice for deep aquifer wells in granite, limestone, and basalt. Typical production depths are 1,500–2,500 ft, with some configurations pushing to 3,000 ft+ with booster compressors.
The T685 is now produced as the 685i by Epiroc (Schramm Powered by Epiroc) with updated automation and safety features. This keeps the resale value of used T685 units strong — buyers who cannot justify the new-build price find the used market the right entry point.
The T685 serves a range of operators across industries and geographies.
Deep aquifer wells for city and county water supply — 1,500+ ft depth, large casing.
High-volume irrigation wells in hard rock country — the T685 is the preferred rig in many US farming regions.
Deep geothermal bores for district heating and power generation — depth and air volume make the T685 ideal.
Active buyers in Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Latin America — where deep water access is critical infrastructure.
Process water and dewatering wells at mine sites. The T685's mobility and reliability make it the operator's choice.
Independent water well drillers upgrading or expanding their fleet — the T685 has the name recognition that wins bids.
We maintain an active network of T685 buyers and sellers. Contact us — most enquiries receive a response within one business day.
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