Mecalac debuted a new hydraulic thumb attachment for its recently re-configured two-piece boom with offset, available for the company’s 6MCR skid excavators and 7MWR wheeled excavator models.
The company says its hydraulic thumb makes it easy to pick up, maintain and move large or long objects in applications such as truck loading or pipe laying. Mecalac adds that the attachment is a fit for contractors in industries including utilities, landscaping, road maintenance and general construction.
“Mecalac believes a machine that doesn’t make an operator’s life easier has no place on the jobsite,” says Peter Bigwood, general manager at Mecalac North America. “The hydraulic thumb not only increases productivity, it keeps workers safer and makes their lives easier.”
The hydraulic thumb permanently mounts to the bucket linkage where it is powered by the boom’s hydraulic cylinder. Unlike grappling buckets or other attachments that must be dismantled during other operations, Mecalac says its hydraulic thumb can remain attached during digging work or other tasks.
The attachment is composed of four teeth and is compatible with Mecalac’s CONNECT hydraulic quick coupler. When engaged, the constant pressure exerted on the thumb throughout the cylinder’s stroke ensures precise control of the load, allowing operators to efficiently move boulders, pipes and other cumbersome objects without leaving the cab or changing the attachment.
Mecalac says this variation of its boom design maintains range of motion and lifting force. Additionally, positioning the stick cylinder above the boom rather than underneath provides a wider working angle, faster movement and a higher penetration force that is ideal for excavation and truck loading applications, according to the company.
Dimensions and work envelope remain similar to the standard boom, Mecalac says, and attachments such as loader buckets and pallet forks are still compatible.