by Nick Drew | Wed 16 Sep 2015
Tilting couplers another option
For those that are not yet ready to go the whole hog and invest in a tilt-rotator a new tilting coupler could be the ideal compromise, these cheaper alternatives are now being offered by most of the major quick coupler manufacturers and in this blog we will take a look at some of the choices available.
Hill Engineering launched its Tefra Tilt coupler last year during the Hillhead quarry and mining show in Buxton. The attachment is available for machines sizes ranging from 7 to 55 tonnes and, like the TEFRA Coupler, has been specifically designed to be almost maintenance free. It is also fully compliant with the proposed new global safety standard ISO 13031 expected later this year.
The TEFRA Tilt’s heavy-duty motor is self-lubricating and there is no requirement to grease the tilt mechanism. In addition, Hill have reduced potential wear items so users have peace of mind regarding any wear on pins or bushes. The TEFRA Tilt coupler boasts advance technology from German manufacturers HKS, as Hill Engineering purchase all their parts from HKS (with the exception of the coupler). Power Actuator XtraTilt is the ‘magic’ behind the new attachment. The robust design of the individual components of the XtraTilt, which is made from high-strength, surface-hardened materials, allows rotation almost without play, even after prolonged operation.
Miller entered the tilting coupler sector with the launch of its PowerLatch Tilt coupler during Plantworx 2015 earlier this year. Building on the well proven Miller TwinLock design this tilting coupler offers 180o tilt function while still offering the peace of mind of the ABS mechanical backup system which ensures the attachment remains securely engaged.
The PowerLatch Tilt offers the operator additional movement for increased versatility and flexibility, making daily tasks such as grading, road construction and demolition so much easier with less movement of the base machine. Its cast compact design is achieved through side mounted arms which reduce the overall height and weight of the PowerLatch Tilt for enhanced performance and productivity.
Building on their long established and successful tilting bucket range, Geith are now offering a complete tilting coupler solution which combines the Powertilt system from Helac and the popular and well proven, Geith Quick hitch system. Once again the Geith system features tilt for any bucket or attachment of up to 180o, is available for machines from 6 to 26 tonnes, features the well proven front and rear safety lock and is operated entirely from the cab.
Check out this promotional video which shows the unit in action on a 13 tonne class Case CX130C.
[youtube width="725" height="344"]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXe1Q8X9pOg[/youtube]