What is the piece of equipment shown in the provided figure?

The correct answer indicates that the equipment in question is a horizontal drill. Horizontal drilling is a method used extensively in pipefitting and construction work, particularly for trenchless installation of utilities. This technique allows for the installation of pipes without significant excavation, making it ideal for situations where surface disruption should be minimized.

Horizontal drills utilize specialized equipment that can bore through the ground at a controlled depth and direction, allowing the installer to place pipes or cables underground without the need for open trenches. This method is advantageous in urban areas or environmentally sensitive locations where traditional digging would cause excessive damage or may not be feasible. The equipment typically consists of a drill rig and a system for pulling the new pipe into place once the bore is completed.

In contrast, a pipe fuser is primarily used for welding and joining sections of pipe, a trencher is designed for cutting narrow trenches in the ground to facilitate the laying of pipes or cables, and a post tensioner is used in concrete construction to apply tension to cables or rods embedded within concrete components. Each of these tools serves a unique purpose; however, the horizontal drill specifically aligns with the capabilities needed for efficient and effective underground pipe installation.