Is your railcar unloading process as safe and efficient as it could be?

Selecting the appropriate hopper gate opener is crucial for optimizing operations in high-volume railyards. With the right equipment, operations managers can improve efficiency, safety managers can reduce workplace injuries, and operators can work with greater ease.

We offer a range of industry-leading solutions designed to enhance safety and productivity, including our flagship Multi-Position Beam Mounted Hopper Gate Opener and the advanced PowerDrive Multi-Position and PowerDrive Ride-On models. This guide provides an in-depth comparison to help you determine which option best fits your operation.

Multi-Position Beam Mounted Hopper Gate Opener: The Flagship Model

For busy railyards facing stubborn hopper gates, the Multi-Position Beam Mounted Hopper Gate Opener is the premier choice. This model has been the industry standard for years, offering a combination of power, adjustability, and operator safety.

Key Features & Benefits

• Electric Over Hydraulic System: The unit features a powerful electric over hydraulic system with both powered height adjustment and forward/retract motion. This ensures the opener can accommodate a wide range of railcar capstan heights and depths with simple lever operation.
• Beam-Mounted Design: Mounted securely on a beam, the system provides stability and consistency, preventing unnecessary strain on the operator.
• Free-Moving Trolley System: Operators can manually roll the trolley along the beam with ease, adjusting to different capstans as needed.
• Single-Person Operation: This model is designed for easy use by a single operator, minimizing labor costs and improving efficiency.
• Customizable Shaft Lengths: For operations with unique layouts, shaft lengths can be tailored to specific requirements.
• Optional Rotation Feature: In tight workspaces, the drive shaft can be rotated away from the walkway, preventing interference with railcars and improving safety.

With its proven track record, this model serves as the foundation upon which the PowerDrive Series was developed, offering additional automation and efficiency-enhancing features.

PowerDrive Multi-Position Hopper Gate Opener: Enhanced Speed and Automation

For high-volume unloading areas that demand both efficiency and safety, the PowerDrive Multi-Position Hopper Gate Opener is the next evolution in railcar unloading technology.

Why Choose the PowerDrive Multi-Position?

• Largest Electric Over Hydraulic System: This model is equipped with our most powerful electric over hydraulic system, ensuring smooth and reliable performance under heavy loads.
• Automated Beam Traversal: Unlike the manual movement of the Multi-Position model, this unit allows the operator to traverse the beam automatically, adjusting the drive bit height and position without physical strain.
• Remote or Hand Control Operation: Operators can control the system via simple hand controls or an optional remote transmitter, providing maximum flexibility and convenience.
• Fastest Shaft RPMs: This model boasts the highest shaft rotation speeds in our unit lineup, making it ideal for demanding, high-volume railcar unloading operations.
• High-Torque Hydraulic Motor: To tackle even the most difficult hopper gates, this model includes our highest torque hydraulic motor as a standard feature.
• Space-Saving Design: The front end of the unit rotates 90 degrees, removing the shaft and drive bit from the railcar path, ensuring a clear walkway and improving safety.
• Customizable Shaft Lengths: Just like the Multi-Position model, this unit can be modified to fit a wide variety of unloading areas.

For operations that require automated movement and high-powered efficiency, the PowerDrive Multi-Position is the ideal solution.

PowerDrive Ride-On Hopper Gate Opener: Maximum Comfort and Productivity

For the busiest railyards, where efficiency and operator comfort are paramount, the PowerDrive Ride-On Hopper Gate Opener takes automation and ease of use to the next level.

Features That Set It Apart

• Seated Operation: Unlike other models, this unit allows operators to control the system from a comfortable seated position, reducing fatigue and improving safety.
• Simple Hand or Remote Controls: Operators can manage the system with intuitive hand controls while seated or opt for a remote transmitter for additional flexibility.
• Fastest Shaft RPMs and Highest Torque: Just like the PowerDrive Multi-Position, this model features the fastest shaft speeds and highest torque hydraulic motor in our unit lineup, ensuring seamless gate operation.
• Automated Beam Traversal: Operators can traverse the beam without leaving their seat, allowing for faster unloading times and a more ergonomic experience.
• Space Optimization: The front end rotates 90 degrees, removing the drive shaft from the railcar path and creating a clear walkway for increased safety.
• Customizable Shaft Lengths: This model, like the others, can be customized to fit the specific needs of an unloading facility.

For railyards that prioritize operator comfort, speed, and high-volume efficiency, the PowerDrive Ride-On is the ultimate choice.

Comparing the Models: Which One Is Right for You?

See the PowerDrive Series in Action

For a closer look at how our PowerDrive models enhance unloading efficiency, watch this demonstration video.

Maximize Efficiency and Safety in Your Railyard

Choosing the right hopper gate opener is essential for maximizing safety and efficiency in your railcar unloading operations. Whether you need the versatility of the Multi-Position, the automation of the PowerDrive Multi-Position, or the comfort and speed of the PowerDrive Ride-On, we have a solution tailored to your needs.

Discover which unit is the best fit for your operation today: Explore the PowerDrive Series.