CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas brought together the biggest names in construction for drilling equipment, and one thing stood out right away. Contractors aren’t looking for flashy features. They want equipment that works, cuts downtime, and keeps crews moving.
This year’s show focused heavily on smarter foundation drilling equipment, improved support systems, and real-world performance. Soilmec’s presence made that clear. Alongside partners like Western Equipment Solutions, the focus wasn’t solely on machines but rather complete equipment solutions that help crews stay productive from start to finish.
Support that keeps your job moving
One of the biggest takeaways from CONEXPO 2026 was the importance of service and support. Having the right drilling equipment is only part of the equation. If you don’t have fast parts, trained techs, and people who answer the phone, your job quickly slows down.
That’s where the dealer network comes in. With Western Equipment Solutions and other partners on site, contractors saw what real support looks like. You get faster response times, local expertise, on-site training, and parts availability when you need it.
At the end of the day, good equipment solutions mean less downtime and more production, which is what crews care about.
Soilmec Blue Tech Plus: Less fuel, more production
One of the biggest highlights at the show was Blue Tech Plus, which makes machines run smarter without adding complexity. The system simplifies the hydraulic setup while improving performance across the board. That means lower fuel consumption, fewer maintenance issues, and more consistent drilling performance.
For contractors, that’s a big deal. Fuel costs add up fast, and downtime costs even more. This next-generation foundation drilling equipment runs efficiently without sacrificing power. Let’s take a closer look at each of the Blue Tech Plus models.
Soilmec SR-35 Blue Tech Plus: Compact and capable
The new SR-35 Blue Tech Plus builds on more than 30 years of proven performance in Soilmec’s 30-ton class rigs. With over 1,500 units delivered worldwide, this lineup has handled everything from extreme climates to complex urban projects. And the latest version raises the bar once again.
The SR-35 keeps the compact footprint and maneuverability the series is known for, making it easy to transport and position on tight job sites. A new stackable counterweight system adds flexibility, enabling operators to increase stability in more demanding conditions.
A Cummins B6.7 engine powers the rig and delivers up to 141 kNm of torque through a next-generation rotary head. Updated hydraulics and intelligent power management help maintain the right balance between torque and speed across different drilling methods and soil types.
The upgraded main winch improves lifting capacity and supports deeper drilling, reaching over 200 feet in certain configurations.
At the core of the machine is the Blue Tech Plus hydraulic system. Using a simplified single-pump design, it manages power more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining high production levels. The streamlined system also lowers maintenance requirements, helping crews stay productive with less downtime.
Soilmec SR-45 Blue Tech Plus: High output without the extra cost
The SR-45 Blue Tech Plus takes performance and efficiency to the next level. We built it for contractors who need consistent output on demanding jobs. Powered by a 280 HP Cummins B6.7 engine, it combines strong drilling capability with a more efficient hydraulic system that cuts maintenance costs and simplifies service.
With up to 30% lower fuel consumption, the Blue Tech Plus system helps reduce operating costs while maintaining high productivity. The rig delivers 184 kNm of torque, allowing for fast, efficient drilling across a wide range of applications, with depths reaching up to 230 feet in LDP and 85 feet in CFA.
The SR-45 also delivers versatility and reliable uptime. Switching from Kelly to CFA takes only about half a day, helping crews stay on schedule. Its compact design provides excellent visibility, while intuitive controls make operation smoother and less tiring for the operator.
Overall, the SR-45 offers a strong balance of power, efficiency, and ease of use, giving contractors a reliable, cost-effective solution for modern foundation drilling.
SR-65 Blue Tech: Proven and ready to work
The SR-65 Blue Tech is one of Soilmec’s most proven and widely used rigs, known for its reliability and versatility across a wide range of foundation applications. The Blue Tech version builds on that reputation with improved hydraulics and energy-saving systems that boost efficiency and deliver more consistent performance in tough ground conditions.
One of its biggest advantages is how quickly it gets to work. The rig can be transported with the Kelly bar installed and begin drilling in under 30 minutes, helping crews save time during mobilization and job site transitions.
Powered by a Cummins L9 engine, the SR-65 delivers strong, consistent power while reducing fuel consumption, noise, and wear through smart engine management. Its rotary head provides high torque and automatically adjusts to optimize drilling speed and performance in real time.
With the ability to handle multiple drilling methods and reach depths of over 250 feet, the SR-65 offers the flexibility contractors need for a wide range of projects. It combines power, efficiency, and fast setup into a reliable solution that keeps crews productive on demanding jobsites.
SM-11: Built for tight jobsites
The SM-11 is a compact drilling rig designed for job sites with limited space and where precision matters. With a narrow operating width and a telescopic boom, it can work in tight urban, indoor, or underground environments without requiring major site modifications.
Powered by a 154 HP Cummins engine, the SM-11 uses a load-sensing hydraulic system to optimize power, reducing fuel consumption, heat, and overall operating costs. Its remote-control setup improves visibility and safety, enabling operators to work more efficiently in confined or irregular spaces.
You can configure the rig with different rotary options, including a double-head system that balances torque and speed for both rods and casing. A strong extractor and wide clamp range add to its versatility, allowing crews to handle multiple applications with one machine.
With real-time monitoring through its digital system, the SM-11 gives operators better control and helps prevent unexpected downtime. Overall, it delivers a strong combination of compact size, efficiency, and flexibility, making it a reliable choice for complex jobsites where larger rigs can’t operate.
Real improvements that matter
Across all the equipment at CONEXPO 2026, the focus stayed the same: make machines easier to run, cheaper to operate, and more reliable.
That shows up in ways that matter on the job:
- Better fuel efficiency
- Simpler maintenance
- Stronger, more consistent performance
- Improved operator comfort
These upgrades directly impact productivity and cost on every job site.
FAQ
What is CONEXPO 2026?
CONEXPO 2026 is the largest construction trade show in North America. It’s where contractors go to see the latest foundation-drilling equipment, check out new technologies, and find real equipment solutions that improve performance on the job.
When and where was CONEXPO 2026 held?
The show took place March 3–7, 2026, in Las Vegas. It’s held every three years and draws contractors, manufacturers, and dealers from across the industry.
How big is CONEXPO?
It’s huge—thousands of exhibitors, millions of square feet of equipment, and over 100,000 attendees. If construction or drilling uses it, it’s probably there.
Why do contractors attend CONEXPO?
They want to see what works. It’s a chance to get hands-on with new drilling equipment, compare machines side-by-side, and talk directly with people who know the equipment inside and out.
What kind of equipment is on display?
Everything from earthmoving machines to specialized foundation drilling equipment. That includes rotary rigs, compact rigs, tooling, and support systems built for real job-site conditions.
Complete equipment solutions
One of the biggest shifts in the industry is the move toward complete equipment solutions. Contractors don’t want to piece things together; they want everything working as one system.
That includes the right rigs and tooling, the right service and support, and proper training and troubleshooting. When everything works together, jobs run more smoothly, crews become more productive, and problems get solved faster.
That’s where Western Equipment Solutions makes a difference. It’s not only about selling foundation drilling equipment; it’s about backing it up every day in the field.
Get the right equipment and the right support with Western Equipment Solutions
If you’re looking to upgrade your fleet or tackle tougher jobs with confidence, turn to Western Equipment Solutions. We provide industry-leading foundation drilling equipment and back it with expert support, fast parts availability, and hands-on service you can count on.
From helping you choose the right drilling equipment to keeping it running at peak performance, our team delivers complete equipment solutions built for real job sites.
Reach out to Western Equipment Solutions today and ensure your next project starts with the right partner and equipment.