Steelwrist expands automatic coupler technology at Bauma 2025

Steelwrist’s SQ40 with the X07 tiltrotator was demonstracted live at Bauma 2025 with a range of attachments. (PHOTO: D&Ri/KHL)

The Swedish manufacturer introduced the SQ40 automatic quick coupler system, the XTR15 and XTR23 tiltrotators, a new tree shear, and a compact multi grapple model.

The SQ40 is the latest addition to Steelwrist’s range of automatic couplers and is designed for excavators weighing up to 6 tonnes. It allows hydraulic tools to be changed from the operator’s cab in seconds. According to Steelwrist, the SQ40 is compatible with existing S40 standard tools and does not require welding to upgrade from S to SQ interface.

“I have myself been running the SQ40 size for over a year on my own excavator and I am really looking forward to presenting the SQ40 solution,” said Steelwrist CEO Stefan Stockhaus.

The SQ40 system includes a modular design and a new hydraulic coupling intended to support high-flow demands. The company stated that the coupler can achieve a flow of 70 litres per minute, offering 40% more flow area than standard 3/8” couplings.

Steelwrist also showcased an expanded range of hydraulic work tools compatible with SQ40, including compactors, grapples, and the newly introduced TSX6 tree shear. The TSX6, designed for excavators up to 6 tonnes, features a fixed blade and dual grapple arms for cutting and holding trees and branches. It is available in both S40 and SQ40 configurations. “It is an amazing work tool, with a simple yet effective design,” said Stefan.

The company’s stand also featured live demonstrations with three excavators, one of which used the new SQ40 with an X07 tiltrotator and another with an XR7 rotor coupler. A 15-tonne machine equipped with an XTR20 tiltrotator also took part in the demo. The tiltrotator included the SQ system and Steelwrist’s LockSense safety feature, which provides visual and audio confirmation of tool locking.

The third-generation XTR tiltrotators, which include models XTR15 and XTR23, are built with cast steel components and a new tilt geometry designed to improve movement and torque. The series includes lubrication-free bearings, automatic greasing via the OptiLube system, and integrated tilt and rotation sensors for machine control compatibility.

Steelwrist stated that all its SQ products conform to the Open-S standard. According to the company, the new XTR models can be upgraded from S-type to SQ-type without structural changes, offering a simpler and more cost-effective path to compatibility with automatic couplers.

The new MGX4 multi grapple, launched for excavators between 2 and 4 tonnes, adds to Steelwrist’s range of grapples, now covering six sizes.

Bauma 2025 marked Steelwrist’s fifth appearance at the event. The company’s 620 sq m stand hosted eight daily demo shows and displayed its products in collaboration with several OEMs across the exhibition grounds.