Excavator quick hitches play a crucial role in the construction and excavation industry, enabling rapid attachment changes and enhancing operational efficiency. Understanding the various types of excavator quick hitches available is essential for selecting the right one for specific tasks.
In this article, we will explore four types of excavator quick hitches: manual pin-type, mechanical, hydraulic, and tilt or tiltrotator. By examining their features, benefits, and applications, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of these essential equipment components.
Manual Pin-Type Quick Hitch
The manual pin-type quick hitch is a commonly used attachment coupling system for excavators. It employs pins and a manual locking mechanism to secure attachments quickly. This type of quick hitch offers simplicity and reliability. With a manual operation, it allows operators to change attachments efficiently on-site. However, it requires physical effort and may take more time compared to other types. The manual pin-type quick hitch finds widespread use in general construction, earthmoving, and utility applications.
Mechanical Quick Hitch
The mechanical quick hitch utilizes a mechanical locking mechanism, typically operated with a lever or handle. It provides faster attachment changes compared to manual pin-type hitches. With a mechanical system, operators can engage and disengage attachments swiftly, reducing downtime. This type of quick hitch enhances productivity and versatility on construction sites. The mechanical quick hitch is often favored for applications involving frequent attachment swaps, such as landscaping, road maintenance, and material handling.
Specification – JT Mechanical Coupler
Please check the following specifications to choose the right mechanical quick hitch coupler model. Tell us the brand and model of your excavator, We are very glad to help you to select the right breaker.
| Category/Model | Unit | JT-00 | JT-01A | JT-01B | JT-02 | JT-04 | JT-06 | JT-08 |
| Length L2 | mm | 400 | 410 | 455 | 520-542 | 581-610 | 760 | 920-955 |
| Width W | mm | 240 | 280 | 295 | 260-266 | 265-283 | 351-454 | 450-483 |
| Height H1 | mm | 185 | 250 | 258 | 312 | 318 | 400 | 512 |
| A Arm open width A | mm | 90-120 | 110-130 | 120-140 | 155-172 | 181-205 | 230-317 | 290-345 |
| D Pins center distance | mm | 90-130 | 140-180 | 190-230 | 220-275 | 290-350 | 350-400 | 430-480 |
| Pin diameter | mm | 20-30 | 30-40 | 30-40 | 40-45 | 45-55 | 50-70 | 70-90 |
| E Cylinder strok E | mm | 90-130 | 140-180 | 190-230 | 200-300 | 300-350 | 340-440 | 420-510 |
| F Vertical pins center distance | mm | 185 | 165 | 170 | 200-210 | 205-220 | 240-255 | 300 |
| Weight | kg | 24 | 32 | 37 | 50-75 | 80-110 | 170-210 | 350-390 |
| Working pressure | kgf/cm3 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 |
| Necessary flow | l | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 |
| Excavator | ton | 0.8-2 | 2-4 | 2-4 | 4-6 | 6-9 | 10-16 | 18-25 |
Hydraulic Quick Hitch
The hydraulic quick hitch relies on hydraulic power to secure attachments. It offers a seamless and automated attachment-changing process, eliminating the need for manual intervention. By connecting to the excavator’s hydraulic system, the operator can control the attachment engagement remotely. Hydraulic quick hitches deliver exceptional speed and convenience, enabling rapid transitions between various tools. This type of quick hitch is particularly advantageous in time-sensitive applications, including demolition, quarrying, and trenching.
Specification – JT Hydraulic Coupler
| Category/Model | Unit | JT-MINI | JT-02 | JT-04 | JT-06 | JT-08 | JT-08S | JT-10 | JT-14 | JT-17 | JT-20 |
| Length C | mm | 300-450 | 520-542 | 581-610 | 760 | 920-955 | 950-1000 | 965-1100 | 980-1120 | 1005-1150 | 1100-1200 |
| Width B | mm | 150-250 | 260-266 | 265-283 | 351-454 | 450-483 | 445+493 | 543-572 | 550-600 | 602-666 | 610-760 |
| Height G | mm | 225-270 | 312 | 318 | 400 | 512 | 512-540 | 585 | 550-600 | 560-615 | 620-750 |
| Arm open width A | mm | 82-180 | 155-172 | 181-205 | 230-317 | 290-345 | 300-350 | 345-425 | 380-450 | 380-480 | 500-650 |
| D Pins center distance | mm | 95-220 | 220-275 | 290-350 | 350-400 | 430-480 | 450-505 | 485-530 | 550-600 | 520-630 | 600-800 |
| Pin diameter | mm | 20-45 | 40-45 | 45-55 | 50-70 | 70-90 | 90 | 90-100 | 100-110 | 100-110 | 120-140 |
| Cylinder strok E | mm | 95-200 | 200-300 | 300-350 | 340-440 | 420-510 | 450-530 | 460-560 | 510-580 | 500-650 | 600-700 |
| F Vertical pins center distance | mm | 170-190 | 200-210 | 205-220 | 240-255 | 300 | 320 | 350-370 | 370-380 | ||
| Weight | kg | 30-40 | 50-75 | 80-110 | 170-210 | 350-390 | 370-410 | 410-520 | 550-750 | 550-750 | 1300-1500 |
| Working pressure | kgf/cm3 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 | 30-400 |
| Necessary flow | l | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 | 10-20 |
| Excavator | ton | 0.8-4 | 4-6 | 6-9 | 10-16 | 18-25 | 25-26 | 26-30 | 30-40 | 40-52 | 55-90 |
Tilt or Tiltrotator Quick Hitch
The tilt or tilt rotator quick hitch combines the functionality of a quick hitch with hydraulic-powered tilting or rotation capabilities. It allows attachments to tilt or rotate, providing increased flexibility and precision during operations. With a tilt or tilt rotator quick hitch, operators can adjust the angle or orientation of the attachment, improving maneuverability and accuracy. This type of quick hitch finds applications in tasks such as landscaping, excavation in tight spaces, and fine grading.
Specification – JT Tilt Quick Coupler
| Category/Model | Unit | JT-00 | JT-01 | JT-02A | JT-02B | JT-04A | JT-04B | JT-06 | JT-06S | JT-08 |
| Tilt Degree | ° | 180° | 180° | 180° | 180° | 180° | 180° | 140° | 140° | 140° |
| Drive Torque | NM | 930 | 2870 | 4400 | 7190 | 4400 | 7190 | 10623 | 14600 | 18600 |
| Tilt Working Pressure | Bar | 210 | 210 | 210 | 210 | 210 | 210 | 210 | 210 | 210 |
| Tilt Necessary Flow | Lpm | 2-4 | 5-16 | 5-16 | 5-16 | 5-16 | 15-44 | 19-58 | 22-67 | 35-105 |
| Quick Coupler Working Pressure | Bar | 25-300 | 25-300 | 25-300 | 25-300 | 25-300 | 25-300 | 25-300 | 25-300 | 25-300 |
| Necessary Flow | Lpm | 15-25 | 15-25 | 15-25 | 15-25 | 15-25 | 15-25 | 15-25 | 17-29 | 15-25 |
| Excavator | Ton | 0.8-1.5 | 2-3.5 | 4-6 | 4-6 | 7-9 | 7-9 | 10-15 | 16-20 | 20-25 |
| Overall Dimension (L*W*H) | mm | 477*280*567 | 477*280*567 | 518*310*585 | 545*310*585 | 541*350*608 | 582*350*649 | 720*450*784 | 800*530*864 | 858*500*911 |
| Weight | Kg | 55 | 85 | 156 | 156 | 170 | 208 | 413 | 445 | 655 |
Safety Considerations when Using Excavator Quick Hitches
Safety should always be a top priority when operating excavator quick hitches. Operators and site personnel must adhere to safety standards and guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure a secure working environment. Proper training on the operation and maintenance of quick hitches is essential. This includes understanding the specific procedures for attaching and detaching various types of attachments. Regular inspections of the quick hitch and its components are necessary to identify any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Any issues should be promptly addressed and repaired by qualified technicians.
Factors to Consider when Selecting an Excavator Quick Hitch
Several factors should be taken into account when choosing an excavator quick hitch. Equipment compatibility is crucial to ensure proper attachment fit and secure coupling. It is essential to consider the excavator’s specifications, such as weight capacity and hydraulic flow, to ensure compatibility with the chosen quick hitch. Operational requirements, such as the frequency of attachment changes and the nature of the tasks, should also be considered. Additionally, budget and cost considerations play a role in selecting the most suitable quick hitch while balancing performance and affordability.
Tilt Quick Coupler
Hydraulic Coupler
Mechanical Coupler
Double Lock Hydraulic Quick Coupler
Conclusion
In conclusion, the various types of excavator quick hitches – manual pin-type, mechanical, hydraulic, and tilt or tilt rotator – offer distinct features and benefits for construction and excavation operations. Each type caters to different needs, providing varying levels of efficiency, convenience, and versatility. By understanding their characteristics and applications, professionals can make informed decisions when selecting the appropriate quick hitch for their specific tasks. Furthermore, prioritizing safety measures and considering factors such as equipment compatibility, operational requirements, and budgetary constraints contribute to optimal equipment selection and effective utilization of excavator quick hitches in the field.