THE 3 VALUABLE INSIGHTS - AN OVERVIEW OF ROTATING HYDRAULIC GRABS

Have you ever wondered what it might feel like to invest in 1 attachment but receive 10? It’s a bit like having an impact driver with 100 pieces, 1 tool with hundreds of applications! This is what it feels like to operate a Hydraulic Rotating Grab.

We all like to rate our operating skills, but there is nothing more masculine than operating one of these. If you are familiar with rotating grabs, or this is your first time seeing them I’m going to share with you why there is no greater investment you can make.

Fortunately, though, I’ll guide you through the trials and tribulations presented to first time rotating hydraulic users. Mind you, using one has actually never been so simple.

At Aussie Buckets, we’re experts at assisting you to make the right choice for your next investment, thanks to a wealth of hands-on industry knowledge supported by the latest in engineering advancements. This means that you can have a stress free transition to rotating hydraulic grabs and immediately be rewarded with increased productivity and capability.

#1 Mistake - WTF are aux lines

The most common mistake operators make before they even enquire is ensuring that you either A) Have auxiliary hydraulic lines installed or B) Can install auxiliary lines onto your excavator.

For those who don’t know Auxiliary lines are hydraulic lines that provide power to hydraulic attachments; they are routed using lines from the valve bank to the dipper arm and terminate with some type of quick-release coupling, you require two sets of auxiliary lines (4 hydraulic line in total). An operator can then connect a hydraulic attachment and use the appropriate control to actuate it.

OR….For those with only one set of auxiliary outlets, you do have the option of installing a 12v 6-port solenoid between the rotator and grapple allowing you to manually switch between the two!

The solenoid diverts the auxiliary hydraulic oil flow from the grapple to the rotator at the push of a button, which we suggest is installed by an auto electrician.

That way you get the fast, efficient versatility you need on the job without the expense of plumbing in a new set of hydraulic lines.

We recommend installing the auxiliary lines however, it’s a worthwhile investment.

‍

#2 Mistake - Not understanding the current hydraulic system

A lack of understanding of demands and limitations of the attachment and machine. It’s actually an easy mistake to avoid, but it happens WAY more often than it should, our advice, know your limits, and if you don’t know ask!

A common misconception is that a standard-flow system can adequately run high-flow attachments. Powering high-flow attachments with a standard flow will lead to inefficient operation. In addition to realizing lower-than-expected results, it can also damage the attachment or pumps. There’s no need to invest extra money in a high- or enhanced-flow system if your attachments only call for standard hydraulic flow.

‍

#3 Third Mistake - Lack of Maintenance

This mistake we hope is not as common as the first two we’ve outlined – but that doesn’t make it any less harmful, In fact, it could be the most costly out of the three – an error that could see you throw away the thousands of dollars trying to reverse the damage...

It is imperative that you have performed regular maintenance of your hydraulic system regularly before considering a rotating grab. As with any hydraulically operated machine, it’s important to maintain the proper hydraulic oil level as specified in your owner’s manual.

Always follow the recommendations in the owner’s manual regarding hydraulic maintenance, oil and filter change intervals. Here is a reminder of what you should be considering;

‍

Daily Routine:

• Check fluid levels
• Look for damaged lines, cylinders and hydraulic leaks around the machine.
• Clean hydraulic attachment couplers before connecting to the machine.
• Pay attention to hydraulic oil temperatures especially when running high-flow attachments like a mulching head.

Annual hydraulics maintenance:

• Take fluid samples to ensure hydraulic oil and vital components are at acceptable particle levels.
• Always replenish with manufacturer-recommended hydraulic oil.

Hydraulics are the heart and soul of your machine. Over the last several years, hydraulics have become more sophisticated with better performance through larger pumps and higher pressures.

Not only do hydraulics now feature higher quality components for improved lifting capacity and breakout forces, but they also make more versatile machines.

We’ve addressed the 3 most common mistakes we see operators struggle with whilst tossing up the idea of a Rotating Hydraulic Grab, rest assured it may seem complicated at first, but it’s a necessary step towards harnessing your full potential. Stop wasting your business time and money and start the conversation today! Here's our product page: https://www.aussiebuckets.com.au/rotating-hydraulic-grab-australia

‍