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Plug-and-play hydraulic connection systems

Picture of Dixon Dixon : 3 April 2025

3:04

Boost productivity and minimise waste with a multi-coupler system.

Managing multiple hydraulic connections on heavy machinery can be messy and time-consuming. Each line requires careful handling to avoid spills, keep dirt out, and ensure a secure connection. For operators and technicians, this can mean frequent delays, safety risks and disorganised setups that complicate maintenance. As machines become more complex and demand faster changes, traditional single-line connections fall short, creating a need for a more efficient, secure and streamlined solution.

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A multiple hydraulic quick coupling system is no longer a pipe dream.

Blackwoods’ supply partner Dixon has developed a smart solution with their Modular Connection System (MCS). It’s designed to house multiple hydraulic couplings in a single, prearranged retention plate so that multiple connections can be made at one time.

All the technician needs to do is match up the alignment pins of the mobile half with the holes in the fixed half and push the engagement handle back. The retention plate configurations are easy to customise and can hold up to ten connections at once, allowing for hundreds of configurations.

Pete Crossley of Dixon Asia Pacific notes,

“A single system that holds multiple quick couplings is perfect for industries where frequent disconnection is required for equipment change-over, such as in mobile construction, agriculture equipment, mining, oil & gas, hydraulic power units, die casting and steel production.”

Trials with an oil field power unit enabled operators to improve efficiencies and also reconfigure onsite to accommodate a more streamlined connection.

The result?

Time-saving and enhanced operation efficiency: Connecting multiple hydraulic lines in one step significantly reduces setup time and therefore, downtime.
Cleaner operation and minimised waste: Fewer individual connections mean a lower chance of fluid spills, minimising cleanup requirements.
Contamination prevention: Tight, secure seals keep out dirt, dust and other contaminants, ensuring reliable performance in challenging environments and reducing connection errors.
Simplified maintenance: Organised, single-point connections make it easy for technicians to identify and manage lines, reducing confusion and optimising field maintenance efficiency.
Enhanced safety: Consolidating connections with Dixon’s flush face coupler, which can be disconnected under pressure, reduces the risk of accidental disconnections or leaks.
Optimised space management: Self-aligning bodies neatly arranged in one block allow for a smooth connection and organised setup, plus the compact handle with a much shorter sweep makes it space efficient.
On-site reconfiguration: Operators can easily reconfigure the location of the flat face couplers within the coupling block, allowing for easy field maintenance rather than extensive delays sending equipment back to the manufacturer to be rebuilt.