Imagine using an excavator coupler that automatically connects hydraulic hoses instantly upon engagement, avoiding the need to manually step out of the cab and carry out time-consuming connection as needed. Such a device is now a reality.
Servicing the east coast of Australia, Victoria-based Leading Excavation Solutions specialises in excavation, sewer, and drainage services.
The business’ primary expertise lies in executing large-scale, complex sewer and water infrastructure projects. Its extensive fleet of machinery enables the company to deliver major earthmoving solutions with precision and efficiency.
Proudly 100 per cent Australian-owned, Leading Excavation Solutions was founded in 2010 by Peter Ados and Jasmond Gatt.
Since then, the company has grown exponentially, now operating a modern fleet of excavators ranging from 5 tonnes to an impressive 65t, many equipped with advanced GPS technology.
With a fully managed team, including qualified plumbers, project engineers, managers, in-house mechanics, and business development managers, the business has earned a reputation as the trusted contractor of choice for Victorian Government agencies, developers, and water authorities.
Peter has always embraced innovative technology, and a recent purchase from Melbourne Tractors highlights this approach.
His new Kobelco SK500 excavator features the Wedgelock QuickFlow Hydraulic Coupler, which allows the 50-tonne machine to perform the work of two.
Unlike traditional couplers that require operators to repeatedly exit the cabin to manually connect and disconnect hydraulic lines, the QuickFlow Coupler connects hydraulic hoses instantly upon engagement, including GPS cables.
“The rock we work with often requires a breaker to loosen it, followed by a dig bucket to extract it,” Peter said.
“Manually changing attachments and hydraulic lines multiple times an hour isn’t practical and usually means having a second excavator on-site. With the Wedgelock QuickFlow Coupler, the change takes seconds, keeping us working efficiently.”
Beyond efficiency, Peter highlights significant health and safety benefits.
“Keeping operators in their cabins reduces the risk of injuries from climbing in and out and eliminates the chance of hydraulic oil spills,” he said.
“The time savings alone more than justify the cost. No operator wants to leave their air-conditioned cabin to wrestle with hydraulic hoses and oil.”
Wedgelock, known for delivering the safest couplers on the market, has equipped this model with its patented instant latching system and a secondary locking mechanism. Even in the unlikely event of hydraulic pressure loss, attachments remain secure.
While instant hydraulic coupling systems have been used in agricultural applications for years, their development for excavator hydraulics has been limited.
Wedgelock Australia’s General Manager, Andrew La Frenz, explains how existing attachments can be adapted for the new coupler.
“We create a custom adapter hanger, similar to those used for standard rock breakers, but integrated with our QuickFlow hydraulic connection system. This allows clients to utilise existing attachments instead of purchasing new dedicated ones,” he said.
Excited about the efficiencies this connection technology delivers, Wedgelock has expanded its operations to better support customers.
A new Key Account Manager, Paul Condon, has been appointed to serve clients across Victoria, and the company’s new Brisbane warehouse offers full sales, parts, and service capabilities to respond quickly to customer needs.