Steelwrist gears up for major equipment debut at bauma 2025

At bauma 2025, Steelwrist will welcome visitors to its interactive stand, showing a range of new products. The show will feature three excavators equipped with Steelwrist products, the third-generation Steelwrist XTR tiltrotators in action, as well as the new SQ40 automatic coupler that brings SQ technology to excavators below 7 tonnes.

Steelwrist will roll out third-generation XTR tiltrotators

In 2024, the first model in the third generation of Steelwrist tiltrotators was presented with the launch of XTR20. At bauma 2025, the XTR20 will be shown alongside two additional models, XTR15 for excavators between 12 and 15 tonnes, and XTR23 for excavators between 19 and 23 tonnes. The XTR15 comes with an S/SQ60 interface, and the XTR23 comes with S/SQ70 or S/SQ70/55 interface.

Both new models come with all the features that were presented when the XTR20 was launched, with tilt geometry, OptiLube onboard lubrication system, and LockSense—a sensor-based system to indicate if the work tool is securely locked. Common for all XTR models is that they are easily upgradeable from the S to SQ interface. The XTR tiltrotators have a low building height that is typical for all Steelwrist tiltrotators.

The third-generation Steelwrist tiltrotators feature steel cast components, including the upper coupler, gearbox, and quick coupler below the tiltrotator. The tilt geometry, with optimized off-center cylinder brackets, reduces cylinder spread and enables high-torque, and fluid movement, which provides operators with control during the work process.

All main joints in the XTR series feature triple-sealed, lubrication-free bearings, protecting against dust and dirt penetration. The OptiLube onboard lubrication system ensures automatic greasing, preventing wear caused by insufficient or inconsistent lubrication. Integrated into the tiltrotator control system, OptiLube provides continuous monitoring and notifies operators when it is time to replace the lubricant cartridge.

LockSense is a patented, next-generation sensor system to indicate secure work tool locking. LockSense aligns with upcoming safety regulations and introduces a wireless design. Operators receive visual and auditory confirmations, guaranteeing safe work tool changes, and enhancing job site safety.

The optional three-finger gripper, redesigned with a downward-angled position, extends the excavator's reach. Featuring a wide opening and near-complete closure, it ensures secure handling of objects across various applications. The robust design, including durable cylinder covers, guarantees long-lasting performance in demanding environments.

The XTR tiltrotators also come equipped with high-resolution tilt and rotation sensors as standard, providing precise positioning data to Machine Control Systems.

Modular design for upgrades to the Open-S compliant SQ

The new tiltrotators, as well as all other Steelwrist products, are available with interfaces following the symmetrical standard (S standard). Due to the modular design, it is possible to upgrade the tiltrotator from S-type to SQ-type. Steelwrist SQ technology allows the operator to change between hydraulic-powered work tools without leaving the cab.

On the new XTR series, the upgrade from S to SQ is possible on both the upper coupler and the tiltrotator quick coupler without having to change the structural parts, as was the case on the previous models. A simple change of components will allow for the upgrade from S to SQ.

"Our XTR generation of tiltrotators represents a leap forward in performance and reliability and with features like LockSense, OptiLube, more tilt and rotation torque, and easy upgradeability, we show our continued commitment to improving excavator efficiency. All the experience we gained over our first 20 years in business has gone into the development of our XTR tiltrotators, and I am extremely proud of what the team has accomplished", says Markus Nilsson, Steelwrist CTO.

Extending the SQ automatic oil connection technology with SQ40

Steelwrist extends its SQ technology to include the SQ40 automatic coupler (patent pending) for excavators below 7 tonnes. SQ40 allows for quick changes of high-flow-powered work tools also on smaller excavators, providing the same efficiency as larger SQ couplers and allowing the operator to change tools without exiting the cab. 

The SQ40 coupler is optimized to achieve a flow of 70 l/min due to a new coupling that provides 40 percent more flow area compared to a standard ⅜ inch coupling. The male SQ couplings on the work tool are integrated into the shaft, and by replacing the shaft the upgrade can be done easily.

Expanding the range of Steelwrist powered work tools

The existing range of powered work tools with the S40 interface is available with the SQ interface, following the launch at bauma. The Steelwrist HCX hydraulic compactors, MGX multi grapples, SGX sorting grapples, and other relevant powered work tools, will be offered with SQ40. 

A new multi grapple, MGX4, is introduced for excavators between 2 and 4 tonnes and comes in between the smaller MGX2 and the slightly larger MGX6. The multi grapple is excellent for use in general construction, heavy lifting, stone laying, sorting, timber loading, waste wood handling, and light demolition.

Introduction of the TSX6 tree shear

Adding to the range of powered work tools, Steelwrist is introducing a new product category; the tree shear. A tree shear on the excavator is used for cutting trees, branches, brush, and energy wood, significantly reducing the time required compared to manual cutting. It can be used in applications such as forestry, and clearing trees from power lines, roadsides, railways, and canals.

At bauma, Steelwrist will present its first model, the TSX6, for excavators up to 7 tonnes, with both S40 and SQ40 interfaces. The Steelwrist TSX6 tree shear has a fixed blade and a powerful cylinder for the best cutting power and to ensure safe cutting. The two grapple arms are designed to give the best grip around the tree trunk. The knife is located at the bottom of the shear to get as low to the stump as possible.

The excavator operator can cut and hold the tree safely using the tree shear, compared to the risks associated with chainsaw operations, such as kickback reactions. The need for workers to be near dangerous cutting zones is eliminated. Installation and maintenance are easy, and learning to work with the tree shear is relatively straightforward. The TSX6 has the capacity to cut round wood up to 180 millimeters depending on the tree species.

"A job needs a tool and a tool needs a carrier, that is our starting point when developing our range of work tools, designed to make our customers' excavators even more versatile and productive. With the introduction of SQ40, we have made sure it will be possible to easily upgrade their Steelwrist existing powered work tool from S to SQ interface, without any welding required. We also expand our range of work tools with the TSX Tree shear, a product which we will show live in our stand at Bauma", says Stefan Stockhaus, Steelwrist CEO.