The new and improved railcar hopper gate opener increases safety and productivity in high-volume railyards as operators now control the automated Ride-On Beam Mounted unit from a seated position.
The Evolution of the Multi-Position Hopper Gate Opener
The original Multi-Position flagship unit included an electric over hydraulic system with powered height adjustment, as well as powered forward and retract motion which allowed the unit to roll easily along a beam on a free-moving trolley system.
Beam mounted units have always been an ideal tool for use in unloading areas with fairly high railcar volume. The trolley system of the Multi-Position lets users quickly move the opener into position. Also, the ability to position and rotate the drive shaft by simply moving valve levers helped a single operator unload many railcars with little effort.
Designing a New Ride-On Unit to Assist in High Volume Railyards
Arnold Company’s pursuit of developing the very best in railcar hopper gate opener technology has led them to iterate upon an already successful design to create an enhanced unit that can face the challenges of a modern railyard shift.
In many unloading areas, high volumes require an operator to unload railcars for an entire shift, which occurs across multiple shifts per day. This created a demand for an even higher level of automation than the Multi-Position to increase the speed, reduce worker fatigue and, above all, improve safety measures. Although the Multi-Position functions well for these operations, Arnold Company invented the design for a Ride-On unit for their customers experiencing such significant volume.
Now Arnold Company’s continued pursuit of innovation in safety and efficiency is proud to present a new and improved Ride-On Beam Mounted unit.
Featuring our largest ever Electric over Hydraulic system, this unit provides a smooth, quiet ride for the operator with simple hand controls that make it easy to traverse the beam while adjusting drive bit height and position to fit any railcar. Operators can remain seated and comfortable while facing repetitive, high-volume tasks all day long.
Plus, operators now have a remote control transmitter available to increase ease of use and operator accessibility. Combined with cameras, the remote capability allows the user to operate the Ride-On from a nearby control area or central location.
Valve handles feature a feathering capability within easy reach so operators can easily adjust speed to accommodate different comfort levels and experience.
To improve speed and efficiency, shaft RPMs are faster than ever to complement the highest torque hydraulic motor ever included as a standard feature. Thanks to these enhancements, you’ll never have to worry about tough hopper gates slowing down operations again. Designed to run all day even in the toughest environments, this unit includes a built-in hydraulic oil cooler so that it will not overheat.
With top speeds and high torque, the Ride-On not only gets the job done safely and easily, but also in the fastest time possible.
The Ride-on features a completely redesigned, easy to maintain power drive which eliminates the need for a chain and provides a smooth ride.
Tighter fits are a problem of the past with the new, optimized space controls of this improved Ride-On Hopper Gate Opener. The latest design helps it fit into most unloading areas thanks to the ability to rotate the unit’s front end a full 90 degrees to remove the shaft and drive bit from the railcar path and create a clear walkway.
By harnessing the best features of the original Multi-Position unit and utilizing the previous improvements of the sled design and power unit, our revolutionary design is engineered and proven to handle your toughest railyard challenges yet.
Key Benefits of Arnold Company’s New, Improved Ride-On Railcar Hopper Gate Opener
- Comfortably Seated, Single Operator Unit
- Beam Mounted (standard W6 x 25 beam)
- Ergonomically Placed Controls (easy adjustments)
- Quieter Operational Levels (70 db)
- Revamped Electric over Hydraulic System
- Highest Unloading Speed and Torque Ever
- Faster Travel Speed (85’ – 140’ per minute)
- Easier to Maintain Power Drive with No Chain
- Built-in Cooler for Continuous Use in Hot Environments
- Now Available with Remote Control Transmitter
Work Safer, Faster, and Smarter with the Right Unloading Equipment
For high-volume applications, this new railcar hopper gate opener unit adds another level of automation and power which increases the speed, efficiency and safety for operators and delivers a more productive working environment overall.
After over 20 years manufacturing railcar openers, hopper trailer openers, and vibration equipment at Arnold Company, our mission is to equip your business with the tools you need to work smarter and safer. Request more information on our new Ride-On unit below from one of our product specialists.
“We have always taken pride in our high quality and wide product offering. One of our main goals is to offer solutions for our customers, no matter what their challenge might be. I feel that the Ride-On unit helps to fill out our already great product offering with the next level in automation, speed, and power.” – Albert Middeke, Arnold Company President
