Lotherme-601: A Game-Changer for Restoring Shoulder Pins in Heavy Machinery

Published on 24 February 2025

7 min

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In the demanding world of earth-moving and mining, heavy machinery is crucial for efficient operations. However, continuous exposure to extreme stress, friction, and impact leads to wear and tear of critical components. One such vulnerable part is the shoulder pin, which deteriorates over time, causing inefficiencies and operational downtime.

Instead of opting for costly replacements, industries are turning to advanced welding solutions for restoration. D&H Sécheron's LoTherme-601 stands out as a high-performance welding electrode specifically designed to refurbish worn shoulder pins, offering exceptional wear resistance, strength, and durability. This approach extends the lifespan of critical components and reduces maintenance costs and downtime, enhancing overall operational efficiency.

 

 What Are Shoulder Pins and Why Are They Critical? 

Shoulder pins are critical components in heavy machinery, serving as connectors and pivot points in equipment like loaders and excavators. They support heavy loads and facilitate the movement of essential parts such as booms and arms. However, due to constant friction, high-pressure loads, and material fatigue, shoulder pins gradually wear out, deform, or lose strength, affecting machinery performance. Failure of shoulder pins can cause the bucket to become misaligned or even completely detach, highlighting their critical role in maintaining operational reliability.

Case Study: Rebuilding Shoulder Pins with D&H Sécheron Solutions 

In a recent project, we at D&H Sécheron successfully restored worn-out shoulder pins in an excavator's bucket using Lotherme-601, proving its effectiveness in heavy machinery repair. These manganese steel pins, weighing 10–20 kg, had suffered severe wear due to high impact and continuous use, affecting the excavator's performance and increasing the risk of failure.
 

To overcome this challenge, we utilised Lotherme-601, a low-heat input touch-weld electrode designed for machinable overlays on ferrous metals. Using the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process, we ensured high-quality, durable welds, resulting in several key benefits:

  • Extended Equipment Lifespan: The rebuilt pins exhibited enhanced durability, significantly extending the operational life of the equipment.

  • Enhanced Strength & Reliability: Lotherme-601's superior wear and crack resistance ensured the pins could withstand heavy loads and harsh conditions.

  • Cost Savings: By eliminating the need for expensive replacements, overall maintenance costs are reduced.

  • Minimised Downtime: The quick and efficient restoration process allowed for uninterrupted operations. 

Check out our case study on this.

Product Used: Lotherme-601

Lotherme-601 is a specialised welding electrode designed for demanding industrial applications, particularly in heavy machinery restoration. Below are the key specifications for its use in this project:

  • Size: 4.00 mm

  • Process: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)

  • Current: 90 Amps

  • Power Source: Transformer

  • Polarity: Straight

Benefits of Rebuilding Shoulder Pins with Lotherme-601 

Rebuilding worn-out shoulder pins with Lotherme-601 offers a cost-effective and efficient alternative to complete component replacement. Here’s why welding is the preferred solution:

  • Cost-Effective Maintenance: Restoring shoulder pins with Lotherme-601 significantly reduces material and labor costs, making it a more economical option than a complete replacement.

  • Reduced Downtime: The fast and efficient welding process ensures that machinery is back in operation sooner, minimising disruptions and maintaining high productivity.

  • Sustainable Solution: By extending the lifespan of existing components, Lotherme-601 reduces material waste, supporting eco-friendly and sustainable industrial practices.

  • Restored Strength & Durability: The welding process rebuilds and reinforces the shoulder pins, improving wear resistance and extending operational life.

Why Choose D&H Sécheron for Welding Solutions?

With over five decades of experience, D&H Sécheron has become a leading provider of welding solutions, particularly in the mining and earth-moving industries. Our dedication to innovation and quality ensures that our welding consumables meet the highest industry standards, delivering exceptional durability and performance in demanding environments.
 

 What Sets Us Apart? 

  • Industry Expertise: Our extensive experience in heavy machinery maintenance allows us to understand and address the unique challenges faced in mining, construction, and earth-moving applications.

  • High-Performance Products: We offer a wide range of welding consumables, including the LoTherme series, designed to withstand extreme wear, impact, and stress, ensuring long-term reliability.

  • Tailored Solutions: We collaborate closely with our clients to develop customised welding solutions that address specific operational challenges, maximising efficiency and cost savings.

 

 

Welding is a strategic advantage for the maintenance of mining equipment, offering a cost-effective and efficient alternative to complete component replacement. By restoring critical parts with precision, advanced welding techniques not only extend the operational lifespan of heavy machinery but also significantly reduce downtime and maintenance expenses.  Investing in innovative welding technologies ensures equipment reliability and cost-efficiency, which are crucial for long-term success. Unlock unparalleled durability and efficiency with D&H Sécheron’s cutting-edge welding solutions. Contact us today to explore how our LoTherme series can benefit your industry.

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