Hydraulic system on Steelwrist’s expanded XTR tiltrotator range delivers a new level of precision

Steelwrist has introduced two additional models in the third-generation XTR tiltrotator range, both featuring SuperProp, a patented fully-pressure compensated proportional hydraulic technology. 

The third-generation XTR titlrotator range expands with two additional models 

The XTR7 is developed for excavators in the 4-7 tonne range and comes with an S40-size interface. 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. 

The four models currently on the market are the XTR2, XTR15, XTR20, and XTR23. Together, the seven XTR models represent the most significant tiltrotator range expansion in Steelwrist's history.

The XTR series is developed 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, onboard lubrication technology, and Steelwrist's latest control system platform: QuantumConnect. 

Key features of the line include OptiLube onboard lubrication, high-resolution tilt and rotation sensors, and Steelwrist safety solutions for secure work tool locking. LockSense is available for XTR tiltrotators with S45/SQ45 coupler interfaces and upwards, while XTR models with S30 and S40/SQ40 interfaces use the Front Pin Hook safety solution.

"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," says Stefan Stockhaus, Steelwrist CEO.

SuperProp expands the XTR technology ecosystem with advanced control 

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

SuperProp is Steelwrist's patented, fully pressure-compensated proportional hydraulic technology, integrated in the new XTR models. The technology was developed to improve tiltrotator precision, energy efficiency, and control by reducing energy loss that is common in conventional hydraulic systems.

In a tiltrotator, several hydraulic functions often operate simultaneously: tilt, rotation, gripper, and auxiliary circuits for powered work tools. At the same time, the excavator's boom and arm functions are moving. In traditional systems, variations in pressure can affect the flow through proportional valves, which can 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 functions even when system pressure varies. The patented technology uses fully pressure-compensated proportional control to give the operator smooth, predictable, and responsive movement. This is especially important when several functions are used simultaneously, such as tilting and rotating while operating the boom and arm.

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

In the XTR tiltrotators, SuperProp is fully integrated into the design. A central part of the development work has been the redesigned swivel, developed to ensure full flow capacity also below the tiltrotator. In combination with the XTR series's larger port dimensions, the system supports full 350 bar machine pressure and up to 200 l/min hydraulic flow for demanding powered work tools.

SuperProp also enables all tiltrotator functions — tilt, rotation, gripper, and auxiliary circuit — to work independently of each other. The system can deliver full flow to tools while maintaining full tiltrotator performance, making it possible to operate powered work tools efficiently without compromising tiltrotator control. The system is also designed for high auxiliary circuit capacity, supporting demanding applications where both tool performance and tiltrotator precision are required.

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