Machine of the Month: Comacchio CPH Rod Handler
- Traxxon Rock Drills

- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
A CPH rod handler is a hydraulic attachment system that mounts to an excavator or similar carrier machine. Its purpose is simple but critical:
✔ Grip drill rods or casing
✔ Lift and position them safely
✔ Load and unload rods during drilling operations
✔ Reduce or eliminate manual handling
By transferring this process from manual labour to mechanical handling, crews can significantly lower the risk of strains, crush injuries, and downtime.
Excavator-Mounted Flexibility
CPH units are typically installed on 8–10 tonne excavators, offering mobility and adaptability on tight or complex job sites.
Wide Diameter Range
Depending on the model, CPH rod handlers can accommodate pipe diameters from approximately 60 mm up to 305 mm (about 2.4”–12”).
This makes them suitable for:
Micropiling
Anchoring
Cased drilling systems
Open hole drilling
Multiple Clamp Configurations
Available with two or three hydraulic clamps, the system ensures secure gripping of both rods and casing sections.
Length & Weight Capacity
CPH units can typically handle rods up to 6 metres (19.7 ft) in length, with lifting capacities around 500–600 kg, depending on configuration.
Improved Site Safety
Manual rod handling is one of the highest injury-risk activities in drilling operations. By mechanizing this process, CPH units:
Reduce crew fatigue
Minimize pinch-point exposure
Decrease lifting injuries
Improve overall jobsite safety
Increased Productivity
Faster rod changes mean:
Less downtime
More meters drilled per shift
Greater overall efficiency
Operational Consistency
Hydraulic handling provides smooth, controlled movement, reducing damage to rods and casing while ensuring consistent positioning.
For drilling contractors focused on safety, productivity, and operational efficiency, Comacchio CPH rod handlers offer a reliable solution.
By reducing manual labour and streamlining rod changes, they help crews work safer and smarter without compromising flexibility on site.


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