Skid Steer Barrel Handlers: An Efficient Solution for Moving Heavy Cylindrical Materials

Introducing Skid Steer Barrel Handlers

Skid steer barrel handlers, also known as skid steer material handlers or skid steer rotator attachments, are versatile pieces of heavy equipment used to lift, rotate, and move large cylindrical objects such as barrels, drums, or pipes. These compact loaders have become invaluable on industrial and commercial job sites where moving heavy barrels is a frequent task.

Skid Steer Loaders Provide a Solid Base

Skid steer loaders, sometimes called bobcats, provide an excellent mobile base for barrel handler attachments. Their rigid frames, high lifting capacities, impressive stability, and all-terrain mobility make them well-suited for this demanding application. Modern skid steers have lift capacities ranging from 1,000 to over 4,000 lbs, with many models able to safely elevate heavy barrels to heights over 10 feet.

Key Components and Functions

While designs vary across brands and models, skid steer barrel handlers typically consist of steel lift arms or forks to engage barrels, hydraulic rotator motors to spin them on their axis, and clamping jaws to grasp the barrel firmly during transport. The hydraulic lifting arm allows the operator to raise barrels straight up or at an angle into dump beds, hoppers, conveyors, and other destinations with precision.

The spinning rotator cradle provides excellent control when upending barrels for dispensing contents or positioning them for nesting transport. Robust hydraulic clamping jaws grip barrel sides firmly, preventing disengagement during rotator operation. Most handlers use a standard universal gripping diameter to accommodate 55 to 85 gallon steel or plastic drum sizes.

Safety Features to Prevent Spills

Since preventing dangerous fluid spills is a necessity around chemicals or petroleum, many newer barrel handlers incorporate smart spill avoidance technology. This can include programmable vertical lift limits to stop upward travel before reaching instability tip points. Integrated tilt sensors also halt rotator functions when excessive angle positions are detected.

Key Benefits of Barrel Handling Attachments

Some of the reasons why heavy equipment owners invest in skid steer barrel handlers include:

• Increased Operator Safety - Reduce injury risks from manual barrel movements.
• Faster Handling Time - Quickly unload and organize deliveries of drummed supplies.
• Space Saving Design - Compact attachment footprint fits through doors and in tight spaces.
• Expanded Capabilities - Rotating and pouring abilities enhance utility.
• Higher Resale Value - Material handling attachments hold value and remain in demand.

Top Skid Steer Barrel Handler Models

While many manufacturers offer capable skid steer material handling attachments, these three progressive rotator models stand out for performance and reliability.

JCB 155 Skid Steer Rotator

The JCB 155 drum handler attachment features excellent lift height, massive steel tusk grippers, and smooth 360 degree bi-directional rotate functions to effortlessly upend and orient barrels. SmartSpeed hydraulics allow both fine inch-by-inch and full speed spin control.

Gehl V420 XL Series Barrel Handler

This handler attachment is engineered for larger skid loader models, with 48 inch fork pallet extensions for oversized materials. The rugged pivot rotating clamp boasts an impressively high 4,350 lb lift rating and specially coated surfaces prevent barrel slippage during pouring tasks.

Mustang MFG ZEPHYRTM Attachments

Known for innovative designs optimized for each equipment make and model, Mustang’s ZEPHYR attachments feature shaped arms that avoid skid loader tire interference during spin functions. This allows unobstructed bi-directional barrel rotation while retaining balance and stability.

Buying Considerations for Barrel Handler Shoppers

For equipment owners purchasing new skid steer handlers, keep these key factors in mind:

• Loader Compatibility - Select appropriate clamp sizes, hydraulic requirements, and mount types to correctly interface with your skid steer brand, lift arm design, and model year.
• Lift Capacity - Choose an attachment with barrel handling strength and weight rating well within your machine’s rated operating capacity to allow a safe margin.
• Operator Controls - Look for smart control designs that improve precision barrel positioning while reducing repetitive operator movements that cause fatigue.
• Durability - Opt for all-steel construction with few moving parts and polyurethane coatings on grip surfaces to maximize attachment longevity in tough conditions.

Ensure Operator Safety with Training

Since barrel handlers significantly expand a loader's capabilities, sufficient operator training is a must. Only properly certified drivers should attempt to attach or operate these machines. Reputable equipment dealers will provide buyers with overview training on attachment controls and safe functioning procedures before delivery.

By leveraging skid steer technologies to improve drum handling efficiency and safety, businesses can boost productivity and cost effectiveness on any project involving steel drums, fuel barrels, or chemical containers requiring regular rotation or movement.

FAQs

What size barrels can skid steer handlers accommodate?

Most barrel handler attachments use universal grippers designed to fit standard 55-85 gallon steel or plastic industrial drums from 22-23.5 inches in diameter.

Can I rotate and dispense from upright barrels?

Yes, the powered rotate function allows tipped pouring from upright barrels as well as inverted flipping for nesting or storage. Variable speed hydraulic motors provide precision flow rate control.

Will installation void my skid steer's factory warranty?

No, reputable dealer-installed attachments like JCB, Gehl, and Mustang barrel handlers conform to equipment manufacturers' design specifications without impacting machine warranties.

Should I choose steel or polymer construction?

While steel provides maximum durability, polymer composite handlers resist corrosion and feature noise isolation bushings for quieter operation. Both materials have advantages suited to different work environments.