Steelwrist has extended its SQ technology to include the SQ40 automatic coupler for compact excavators.
The Sweden-headquartered manufacturer of tiltrotators, quick couplers, and work tools for excavators says the SQ40 allows fast changes of high-flow-powered work tools 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 at bauma 2025, bringing SQ auto connection technology to excavators weighing between 2 and 7 tonnes. At Bauma, SQ40 was first shown integrated into the quick coupler of the X07 tiltrotator and the XR7 rotor coupler, and the SQ40 fully automatic machine coupler is now launched.
In 2017, Steelwrist introduced the SQ auto connection system for quick couplers and tiltrotators. With SQ technology, it is possible to connect both hydraulic and electrical signals in a single 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 weighing 2-7 tonnes.
Significant development efforts have gone into the design of the new SQ40 automatic coupler, and one very critical criterion was to ensure the flow required to power demanding hydraulic work tools. The SQ40 coupler is optimised to achieve a flow of 70 l/min thanks to a new and innovative coupling that provides 40% more flow area compared to a standard 3/8″ coupling.
With the SQ40 automatic machine coupler, Steelwrist also introduces the new H6 electrical connector, which builds on years of experience with the Open-S V14 electrical connector. The H6 is a 6-pin electrical connector fully integrated with the SQ40 locking wedge and features a moulded design for environmental sealing. Large contact surfaces and strong spring-loaded pins ensure reliable electrical transmission and high current capabilities. The contacts’ core is hardened Phosphor Bronze, which provides effective corrosion resistance in harsh conditions and a hardness similar to steel, ensuring 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.
Steelwrist CEO Stefan Stockhaus comments: “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 in 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.”
The demolition process requires frequent changes between different hydraulic-powered work tools. By integrating automatic couplers with specialised 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 of the demanding demolition industry.
Open-S Alliance
In developing the SQ automatic couplers solution, Steelwrist says it realised that the world does not need another proprietary solution that locks contractors into using components from a single manufacturer. That led to the creation of the Open-S (OS) symmetrical standard, to give machine operators and contractors the freedom to combine quick couplers and work tools from different manufacturers.
Launched in 2020, the Open-S Alliance has grown significantly over the past 12 months, with eight new companies joining, bringing its total to more than 20 members globally. At the upcoming World Demolition Summit in Nashville, USA, Open-S will sponsor the event App used by all delegates to access relevant information on the agenda and visitors.
