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Steelwrist launches SQ40 quick coupler

Steelwrist extends its SQ technology to include the SQ40 automatic coupler for compact excavators. SQ40 allows for quick changes of high flow-powered work tools also on smaller excavators, providing the same efficiency as larger SQ couplers. This makes changing powered work tools easier and safer, as it can be done without leaving the cab.

The SQ40 size was first introduced during Bauma 2025, bringing the SQ auto connection technology to excavators between 2 and 7 tonnes. At Bauma SQ40 was first shown integrated in the quick coupler of the X07 tiltrotator and the XR7 rotor coupler, and now the SQ40 fully automatic machine coupler is launched.

Launch of SQ40 expands the SQ technology to compact excavators

In 2017 Steelwrist introduced the SQ auto connection system for quick couplers and tiltrotators. With the SQ technology it is possible to connect both hydraulics and electrical signals in one movement. With the introduction of the new SQ40 size Steelwrist’s product range includes eight different SQ quick coupler models (SQ40-SQ90), for excavators from 2 to 70 tonnes. SQ40 is specifically designed for the growing segment of compact excavators between 2 and 7 tonnes.

Significant development efforts have gone into the design of the new SQ40 automatic coupler and one very critical criteria was to ensure the flow required to power demanding hydraulic work tools. The SQ40 coupler is optimized to achieve a flow of 70 l/min thanks to a new and innovative coupling that provides 40 percent more flow area compared to a standard 3/8” coupling.

With the SQ40 automatic machine coupler Steelwrist also introduces the new H6 electrical connector that builds on the years of experience with the Open-S V14 electrical connector. The H6 is a 6-pin electrical connector which is fully integrated to the SQ40 locking wedge and has a molded design to ensure that it is environmentally sealed. Large contact surfaces and strong spring loaded pins ensure reliable electrical transmission and high current capabilities. The contacts core is hardened Phosphor Bronze, which results in effective corrosion-resistant properties when exposed to harsh conditions, as well as a hardness similar to steel to ensure a long service life.

The SQ40 follows the symmetrical S40 standard, meaning it is fully compatible with existing work tools without requiring costly modifications. Its modular construction enables fast upgrades from S to SQ, with simplified hose routing and easy installation of male couplings integrated into the rear tool shaft. This also means that hose routing is very flexible, and can be adapted to a wide range of hydraulic work tools.

“For the past two years I have been running the SQ40 size on my own excavator and once you get used to not having to leave the cab when changing hydraulic powered work tools you never want to go back. Since we introduced SQ40 at Bauma there has been a lot of interest for the product from many customers, and with the introduction of the SQ40 quick coupler we can also offer a sandwich tiltrotator installation. This is beneficial when you want to easily disconnect the tiltrotator to use for example a breaker”, says Stefan Stockhaus, Steelwrist CEO.

Listen to our demolition experts at the recent live webinar

The demolition process requires frequent changes between different hydraulic powered work tools. By integrating automatic couplers with specialized demolition work tools, contractors can enhance efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness in their projects. The Steelwrist SQ auto connection system has been developed to meet the requirements in the demanding demolition industry.

On October 21 Steelwrist held a livestreamed webinar, Steelwrist in Demolition – Innovation, Automatic Couplers & More, where company representatives held a live panel discussion on how automatic couplers, adaptor plates, and open standards are making demolition safer, faster, and more efficient. The webinar is available to watch on the Steelwrist LinkedIn and YouTube accounts. In order to further strengthen the commitment to the demolition industry Steelwrist has just launched a new dedicated webpage focusing only on this business segment. The webpage contains key information on how the SQ technology can increase productivity and safety within the demolition industry.
Steelwrist in Demolition webpage

Steelwrist proud platinum sponsor of World Demolition Summit, in Nashville

Steelwrist has participated in the KHL organized World Demolition Summit (WDS) eight consecutive years, and in 2025 the company is a proud platinum sponsor of the event. WDS covers a broad range of topics critical to the global demolition, deconstruction, and recycling industries. Presentations and panel discussions focus on subjects including technology, sustainability, project management, and safety.

Close to 500 delegates from all over the world are expected to attend the event which takes place in Nashville, USA, on November 3-5. Steelwrist will be present with a large stand and team to promote the SQ technology for attending demolition contractors and demolition attachment manufacturers.

During the event the WDS awards will be presented in 11 categories on November 5 at the Music City Centre, Nashville. The recently launched Steelwrist SQ40 automatic coupler solution has been nominated for an award in the Innovation Tools & Attachments category.

“The World Demolition Summit is an excellent arena for us to meet with demolition contractors from all over the world and get first hand insights to the development in this important industry segment. I look forward to the event taking the opportunity to talk about our SQ solutions as well as our commitment for open standards. Then I truly hope that we will travel home from Nashville with a WDS award for our SQ40 automatic coupler”, says Karl Serneberg, VP OEM Sales & Marketing.

In the process of developing the SQ automatic couplers solution Steelwrist realized that the world does not need another proprietary solution that locks the contractor into only using components from one manufacturer. Therefore the initiative was taken to create the Open-S (OS®) symmetrical standard, with the goal to give machine operators and contractors the freedom to combine quick couplers and work tools from different manufacturers.

Initiated in 2020, the Open-S Alliance has grown significantly the past 12 months, with eight new companies joining the organization that now has more than 20 members globally. In the upcoming World Demolition Summit event in Nashville, USA, Open-S will sponsor the event App used by all delegates to access all relevant information about the agenda and visitors.
Open-S webpage

“At the World Demolition Summit several of the sponsoring attachment manufacturers are members of the growing Open-S Alliance. This shows that the need for an open industry standard for automatic couplers and work tools is really crucial within the demolition industry and I look forward to seeing this community grow even further”, says Stefan Stockhaus, Steelwrist CEO.

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