INTRODUCING OPEN-S
Open-S is the open standard for fully automatic quick couplers for excavators, giving machine operators and contractors around the world the freedom to combine machine couplers, tiltrotators and tools from compliant manufacturers. It builds on the established symmetrical S standard.
Before the S-Standard, there were no clear guidelines, leading to poor compatibility between products and causing problems and costs for machine distributors, excavator owners, and work tool producers.
Open-S is a global initiative created by industry leaders Rototilt and Steelwrist. Managed by the Open-S Alliance, an independent organisation, the standard encourages collaboration across regions worldwide. The Alliance is led by engineers from member companies who believe open interfaces foster innovation and development.
“We believe closed systems limit users’ choices and hinder competition,” says Stefan Stockhaus, CEO of Steelwrist and current chairman of the Open-S Alliance. “By agreeing on an open interface, we offer customers compatibility while continuing to compete on product performance.”
The Open-S Alliance, which has won an INTERMAT Innovation Award, is growing rapidly. It now has almost 20 members across Europe, North America, and Asia, with new members joining frequently. Wheatway Solutions Ltd, a British manufacturer of specialist attachments and screening systems, is one of the latest members to join.
“We believe Open-S drives innovation and ensures our attachments are flexible and future-proof,” says Colin Smith, Managing Director of Wheatway Solutions Ltd.
Open-S invites industry manufacturers to join the Alliance and contribute to the development of the standard. By joining, manufacturers gain access to a wider customer base prioritizing compatibility and interoperability.
Manufacturers can apply for membership through the Open-S website at www.open-s.org.