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Steelwrist introduces SuperProp hydraulics

Steelwrist has introduced SuperProp, the third technology pillar in its XTR tiltrotator ecosystem. 

Together with the XTR tiltrotator hardware and the QuantumConnect control system platform, SuperProp completes the technology foundation for Steelwrist’s third-generation tiltrotators. 

Introduced at Svenska Maskinmässan, Sweden’s largest construction trade show, SuperProp is Steelwrist’s fully pressure compensated proportional hydraulic technology. 

“SuperProp represents a major leap in tiltrotator hydraulics. We have developed a patented, fully pressure compensated proportional hydraulic technology that gives the XTR platform a new level of precision, function independence and energy efficiency,” said Markus Nilsson, Steelwrist CTO.

“This is especially important when the operator is using several functions at the same time, where SuperProp allows the tiltrotator to respond smoothly and predictably even as pressure and load conditions change.” 

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The technology is developed to improve tiltrotator precision, energy efficiency and control by reducing the energy losses that are common in conventional hydraulic systems. 

In a tiltrotator, several hydraulic functions often operate at the same time: tilt, rotation, gripper and auxiliary circuits for powered work tools. 

At the same time, the excavator’s boom and arm functions also move. In traditional systems, variations in pressure can affect the flow through proportional valves, which may reduce control precision and make combined movements more difficult to operate smoothly. 

SuperProp is designed to address this challenge by maintaining precise and independent control of the tiltrotator, even when system pressure varies. 

The patented technology uses fully pressure compensated proportional control to give the operator smooth, predictable and responsive movement.  

SuperProp also helps to improve energy efficiency. By matching pressure to the actual load and using only the energy required for the task, SuperProp can reduce unnecessary losses in the hydraulic system. This can reduced fuel consumption, lower heat generation and improved operating efficiency. 

Steelwrist has full integrated SuperProp into its XTR tiltrotator design. 

A central part of the development is the redesigned swivel, which ensures full flow capacity. In combination with the XTR series’ larger port dimensions, the system supports full 350 bar machine pressure and up to 200 litres per minute of hydraulic flow. 

The system is also designed for high auxiliary circuit capacity, supporting demanding applications where both tool performance and tiltrotator precision are required. 

“With SuperProp, we are taking a clear lead in advanced tiltrotator hydraulics and preparing the XTR platform for the next generation of excavator efficiency,” Nilsson said.

SuperProp will be available during the third quarter of 2026 on XTR10 to XTR23 tiltrotators. 

New XTR models

At Svenska Maskinmässan, Steelwrist also introduced the XTR7 and XTR13 tiltrotators, which follow the debut of the XTR10 at ConExpo earlier this year. 

In the last two years, the XTR range has expanded to seven models, bringing the latest Steelwrist technology to a wider range of excavators.

The XTR7 is developed for excavators in the 4 to 7 tonne range and comes with S40 size interface. At the show, the XTR7 was shown with the Steelwrist SQ40, the fully automatic coupler solution that enables hydraulic powered work tools to be changed without leaving the cab.

The XTR10 and XTR13 extend the XTR range for larger compact and mid-size excavators. The two models are available with S45 and S50 size interfaces, and at Svenska Maskinmässan both models were shown with the fully automatic SQ45 solution.  

The four models already launched and currently delivered are XTR2, XTR15, XTR20 and XTR23. Together, the seven XTR models represent the most significant tiltrotator range expansion in Steelwrist’s history. 

Steelwrist developed the XTR series to take excavator efficiency to the next level, with increased performance, improved safety, higher uptime and an operator experience built around precision and control. 

With 360-degree rotation and 45-degree tilt in both directions, the tiltrotator allows the operator to work faster, safer and with greater flexibility. 

The XTR platform combines compact design with steel cast components, refined tilt geometry, upgraded hydraulics and onboard lubrication. 

QuantumConnect 

The XTR series also features QuantumConnect, Steelwrist’s latest control system platform. The platform brings together new hardware components, smart apps and connected functionality to make installation, operation and support easier and more efficient. 

Main components include A9 joysticks, QIO module, Connectivity Gateway and touch display. The system is delivered in a well-organized box with the main components and a machine-specific cable harness to simplify installation from the start. 

QuantumConnect is designed to make tiltrotator installation easier, faster and more consistent. 

The InstallMate app provides predefined, machine-specific and multilingual installation guides, supporting technicians step by step and enabling remote installation support.

For the operator, all tiltrotator hydraulic functions are controlled proportionally with rollers on the A9 joysticks. Auto-calibration of hydraulic valves helps optimize the driver experience, while the QuantumConnect app allows the operator to configure settings, access support and keep the system updated.

“This is a major achievement and shows the strength of our development organization, our production capabilities and our close cooperation with customers and dealers,” said Steelwrist CEO Stefan Stockhaus. “With the XTR tiltrotators, the QuantumConnect control system platform and now SuperProp hydraulics, we bring together the three key technology pillars that make this the world’s most modern tiltrotator range.”