An excavator swivel joint, also known as a slewing ring or turntable, is a mechanical component that facilitates the rotation or swiveling of the upper structure of an excavator. It is a large circular structure located between the undercarriage or lower frame of the excavator and the upper structure, which includes the cabin, engine, hydraulic systems, and attachments.
The swivel joint consists of an inner race, an outer race, and a set of rolling elements or bearings that allow smooth and controlled rotation. The inner race is fixed to the excavator's undercarriage, while the outer race is attached to the upper structure. The rolling elements, typically ball or roller bearings, are positioned between the inner and outer races to reduce friction and enable the rotation.
The swivel joint is typically powered by the excavator's hydraulic system, which supplies hydraulic fluid and pressure to the swivel motor or cylinder. This hydraulic power is used to rotate the upper structure of the excavator horizontally, allowing the operator to position the machine and perform various tasks, such as digging, loading, and lifting, in different directions.
The swivel joint is designed to handle significant loads and withstand the forces exerted during excavator operations. It plays a critical role in the stability, maneuverability, and overall performance of the excavator. Proper maintenance and lubrication of the swivel joint are essential to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear.
In summary, the excavator swivel joint is a mechanical component that enables the rotation or swiveling of the upper structure of the machine, allowing for precise positioning and efficient operation during excavation and construction tasks.
Types ofexcavator swivel joint
Excavator swivel joints, also known as slewing rings or turntables, come in various types and designs. The specific type of swivel joint used in an excavator can vary depending on the manufacturer, model, and size of the machine. Here are a few common types of excavator swivel joints:
1. Single Row Ball Slewing Ring: This type of swivel joint consists of a single row of ball bearings positioned between the inner and outer races. It provides smooth rotation and is commonly used in smaller to medium-sized excavators.
2. Double Row Ball Slewing Ring: Double row ball swivel joints feature two rows of ball bearings, which provide increased load capacity and improved stability during rotation. They are often found in larger excavators or heavy-duty applications.
3. Cross Roller Slewing Ring: Cross roller swivel joints have cylindrical rollers arranged in a crisscross pattern between the inner and outer races. This design offers high load capacity, rigidity, and excellent rotational precision. Cross roller swivel joints are commonly used in larger excavators that require precise positioning and stability.
4. Three Row Roller Slewing Ring: Three row roller swivel joints consist of three rows of cylindrical rollers positioned between the inner and outer races. This design provides exceptional load-carrying capacity and is suitable for heavy-duty excavators and demanding applications.
5. Combination Slewing Ring: Combination swivel joints combine different types of rolling elements, such as balls and rollers, within the same swivel joint assembly. This allows for optimized load distribution and enhanced performance characteristics based on specific application requirements.
6. Gear-Type Swivel Joint: Some excavators utilize a gear-type swivel joint, where the rotation is facilitated by a large internal gear fixed to the upper structure and a smaller external gear attached to the undercarriage. The gears mesh together to enable smooth rotation.
7. Torque Motor Swivel Joint: In certain excavator parts models, a torque motor is integrated into the swivel joint assembly. The torque motor directly drives the rotation of the upper structure, eliminating the need for separate hydraulic motors or cylinders.
8. Enclosed Swivel Joint: Enclosed swivel joints are designed with sealed housings to protect the internal components from contaminants such as dirt, dust, and water. This helps to prolong the life of the swivel joint and maintain its performance.
9. Compact Swivel Joint: Compact swivel joints are designed to minimize the overall size and weight of the swivel assembly. They are commonly used in compact or mini excavators where space is limited.
10. Maintenance-Free Swivel Joint: Some swivel joint designs incorporate self-lubricating or maintenance-free features, reducing the need for regular lubrication or maintenance tasks.
11. Integrated Sensor Swivel Joint: Advanced excavator models may have swivel joints with integrated sensors or encoders that provide feedback on the position and rotation of the upper structure. This data can be used for advanced control systems, safety features, or automation purposes.
It's important to note that the availability of specific swivel joint types and features can vary based on the excavator manufacturer, model, and size. The selection of the swivel joint type depends on factors such as the excavator's design, intended application, load requirements, and desired performance characteristics.
Price range for different types of excavator swivel joints
A general price range for different types of excavator swivel joints. Keep in mind that these price ranges are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, model, size, and supplier. Here are some examples:
1. Single Row Ball Slewing Ring: $1,000 to $5,000
2. Double Row Ball Slewing Ring: $3,000 to $15,000
3. Cross Roller Slewing Ring: $5,000 to $20,000
4. Three Row Roller Slewing Ring: $10,000 to $30,000
5. Gear-Type Swivel Joint: $2,000 to $10,000
6. Torque Motor Swivel Joint: $5,000 to $20,000
Please note that these price ranges are approximate and can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the specific brand, model, size, and supplier. It is recommended to contact authorized dealers, excavator parts suppliers, or distributors for accurate and up-to-date pricing information based on your specific requirements. They can provide you with the most accurate pricing based on the swivel joint type and specifications you are looking for.
