Thwaites revealed at Hillhead 2024 the ROTATOR. A brand new 9-tonne Dumper that gives the Operator a Rotating Position enabling 360-degree Visibility from the Safest Seat on Site.
Designed by renowned Thwaites engineers and built by our expert UK manufacturing team. The Rotator will further reduce risk on site, improve productivity whilst delivering the safest, dumper operator experience.
What’s in a Name?
The word ROTATOR is a palindrome, (a word that reads the same forwards as it does backwards). The unique function of this Thwaites dumper is to operate the same way (As safely) forwards as it does backwards. All enabled by the operator position that can now Rotate…
Rotation of the operator is the solution to the industry problem. Hence ROTATOR.
Operator Optics
The cab design includes a 360-degree reverse cab configuration, integrated cameras and adjustable mirrors all of which significantly improve operator visibility and performance in every onsite setting and situation.
Safety Systems
The ROTATOR cab design is equipped with seat presence switch logic. Limit switches ensure the operator seat is always securely engaged, locking out all drive and control functions until so.
Tilt sensors will alert the operator audibly and visually, ahead of time, when it is safe to tip, depending on the gradient.
The machine has two, permanent fixed, green and amber flashing indicator beacons on both sides of the upper cab structure and roof respectively.
Operator Comfort
The significant, large and spacious cab offers access through left and right sided doors, with easy seat access and best in class rotation, this ergonomically designed cab is built with operators in mind.
The ROTATOR comes, in addition to the panoramic glazed cab, with a host of features such as, air conditioning, improved leg room, enhanced seat comfort and intuitive hydrostatic control.
Machine Performance
Front or rear tip dumpers are easily and safely loaded, with a straightforward tipping action that places the full bucket of spoil exactly where it is required.
Full oscillation & articulation enables superior control which is further advanced by a robust hydrostatic drive control.
Powered by a 3.6L Deutz turbo engine which is fitted with a DPF which is compliant with EU Stage V emission regulations.
The engine delivers 55.4Kw of peak power with 405 Nm of torque with a noise level below 101Db (A).
The performance of the ROTATOR (during the machines warranty period) will be managed by the Thwaites telemetry system, enabling lead indicator alerts of any unscheduled activities, which may cause the machine potential and costly harm, or compromise safety and or performance.
Access to the telemetry is also available to machine owners.
User Friendly Maintenance
Electric in cab warning lights for coolant and oil level reduce the burden of daily checks. A sensor acts as an electronic dipstick alerting the need for top up.
The ROTATOR cab allows for access to the engine for further checks, via a hinged floor plate.
A further service hatch is situated in the front cover to check fuel filters, air filters and the fuel pump.
For further engine and chassis access, additional removable hatches give service teams the space to work safely and efficiently.
All to simplify maintenance tasks reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
What’s Next?
The Rotator shown at Hillhead 2024 is a pre-production machine. The full production machine will be available via Thwaites distributors from the spring 2025.
