Ref: PHH120

Integrated Parker hydraulics system improves security and performance for hook loaders

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An integrated hydraulics system, developed and produced by Parker Hannifin, the world’s largest diversified manufacturer of motion and control technologies, has been designed to improve the safety and performance of hook loaders, which are typically fitted to commercial vehicles for handling waste skips.  The new system enables the entire loading and unloading operation to be managed automatically from a single control mechanism from the safety of a vehicle cab, is easy to setup and programme, while providing the potential for comprehensive operational diagnostics.

Operating conventional hook loaders is notoriously complex and potentially hazardous, with detailed guidelines encompassing various aspects of lifting and software/hardware requirements being specified by the Health and Safety Executive.  The load and unload sequence normally requires a skilled driver to operate simultaneously a number of functions, to achieve a smooth, safe and efficient sequence of events.  Furthermore, in most instances the driver would have to operate outside the cab and can therefore be exposed both to the environment and to possible hazards from badly loaded skips or failure in the loading mechanism.

By combining proven hydraulic hardware, including P70 valves and F1 pumps, with Parker’s powerful IQAN electronic control and display technology, the company has been able to develop a competent function solution.  This is easy for OEMs to fit and programme, and simple for end users to operate, with all functions including sliding, knuckling, container locking, rear collision bar and stabilisation jacks being automatically and sequentially controlled via a joystick controller in the cab.

The ergonomically designed controller makes the operation of a hook loading system simple and efficient, with a multifunction display showing operation mode, with warning lights and a self diagnoses option.  The latter can lead to far lower failure rates for the hook loading mechanisms, as it enables a potential fault to be identified before a component reaches a critical condition.

Other standard features such as manual override for emergency situations are available, while additional options and functionality can be introduced via the standard IQAN CAN-bus interface: such as black box, automated levelling, weighing systems and extra hydraulic locks. 

Parker can deliver its integrated hook loader system against a single part number, simplifying ordering and inventory control, and also offers a full range of technical and customer support services to help OEMs develop bespoke solutions.

About Parker Hannifin
With annual sales of $10 billion in fiscal year 2010, Parker Hannifin is the world's leading diversified manufacturer of motion and control technologies and systems, providing precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of mobile, industrial and aerospace markets. The company employs approximately 55,000 people in 46 countries around the world. Parker has increased its annual dividends paid to shareholders for 54 consecutive years, among the top five longest-running dividend-increase records in the S&P 500 index. For more information, visit the company's web site at http://www.parker.com, or its investor information site at http://www.phstock.com.