Since its inception 30 years ago, Engcon has been actively involved in driving safety development in the excavation industry. This year is no exception: from 1st October 2020, Engcon will offer the Quick hitch Standard Control (QSC) its safe locking system as standard on all tiltrotators with Engcon’s control system. In short, the current system for controlling the bucket lock under the tiltrotator is being replaced by Engcon’s standardised locking panel.
Engcon’s strategy is to continually improve the excavators’ everyday lives with more efficient, flexible and safer solutions. This means, among other things, providing access to smart solutions for everyone, by offering them as standard. The automatic quick mounting system, EC-Oil, has previously been added as an option at no extra charge. Further increasing safety, Engcon will offer the safe locking system QSC under the tiltrotator as standard.
The current system for controlling the bucket lock under the tiltrotator will be replaced with Engcon’s standardized locking panel, directing the driver’s actions by means of an alert system to ensure correct positioning. In this way, Engcon simplifies the handling of the bucket lock — the hitch control function is standardized, regardless of the make and model of the excavator. This minimizes the risks of dropped or swinging tools.
“We usually compare it to the fact that the accelerator and brake pedals would have different placements in a car depending on which car brand it is. In short, if a driver who changes from one excavator to another and can operate it in the same way, the risk of making mistakes with serious consequences is greatly minimized,” says Martin Engström, product manager at Engcon.
Unique Safety Function that Saves Lives
In addition to the standardisation of the locking procedure, it is also impossible to activate the bucket lock under the tiltrotator while the bucket is hanging in midair — a safety function that is unique to Engcon’s locking solution.
“This reduces the greatest risk that a bucket or a tool is accidentally dropped when up in the air. Which can prevent both injuries and deaths,” says Engström.
The locking system, QSC, together with Engcon’s quick hitch Q-Safe, also has an audio visual warning system. The system warns with sound and light alarms if the bucket is connected incorrectly. As an accessory you can also order a safety function that locks the excavator’s turning movements, which further increases safety.
“To sum up, we continue to standardise for maximum safety and to prevent unnecessary accidents due to mistakes, stress or improper handling. And not only that, it costs nothing extra,” Engström concludes.
