Pairing a Rotobec Power Rake with a Doosan Daewoo Excavator

[MikePhua]

Doosan Daewoo’s Excavator Lineage and Market Reach
Doosan Infracore, formerly Daewoo Heavy Industries, has been a major player in the global construction equipment market since the 1970s. After acquiring Daewoo’s machinery division in the early 2000s, Doosan expanded its excavator lineup with models ranging from compact units to full-size machines exceeding 50 tons. Known for their robust hydraulic systems, spacious cabs, and cost-effective performance, Doosan Daewoo excavators have been widely adopted in forestry, demolition, and land development. By 2020, Doosan had sold over 500,000 excavators globally, with strong market penetration in Asia, Europe, and North America.
Terminology Annotation

• Power Rake: A hydraulically actuated attachment designed to sort, rake, and manipulate debris, roots, and loose material.
  
• Rotobec: A Canadian manufacturer specializing in grapples, rakes, and rotators for forestry and material handling applications.
  
• Dangle Rotator: A hydraulic rotator that allows the attachment to pivot freely, improving maneuverability and reducing stress on the boom.
  
• Quick Coupler: A device that enables fast attachment changes without manual pin removal.
  

Rotobec Power Rake Design and Capabilities
Rotobec’s power rake is engineered for precision and durability. Built with high-strength steel and equipped with a continuous 360° rotator, the rake can be mounted on a wide range of excavators, including Doosan Daewoo models. The rake’s curved tines and hydraulic actuation allow it to:

• Sort and separate rocks, roots, and debris
  
• Clear vegetation and brush efficiently
  
• Manipulate railroad ties, logs, and scrap
  
• Operate in storm cleanup and disaster recovery zones
  

Rotobec’s rake systems are available in multiple widths and tine configurations, with optional selector valves for 12V or 24V control systems. Their sealed rotators are submersible up to 15 feet, making them suitable for wetland and shoreline work.
Mounting Considerations and Hydraulic Integration
Installing a Rotobec power rake on a Doosan Daewoo excavator requires attention to hydraulic flow rates, coupler compatibility, and control integration. Key steps include:

• Verifying auxiliary hydraulic flow (typically 30–50 GPM for mid-size units)
  
• Ensuring the excavator’s boom and stick geometry allow full rake articulation
  
• Installing a quick coupler or direct pin-on mount based on operator preference
  
• Routing electrical lines for selector valve control if using dual-function rake
  
• Calibrating joystick controls to modulate rake pressure and rotation speed
  

Operators should also check for clearance between the rake and cab during full curl and extension cycles, especially when working in confined areas.
Anecdote from a Storm Recovery Crew
In 2021, a storm recovery team in Louisiana deployed a Doosan DX225LC fitted with a Rotobec power rake to clear hurricane debris. The rake’s ability to sort tangled vegetation and lift submerged logs made it indispensable. The crew noted that the rake’s rotator allowed precise placement of debris into trucks, reducing cycle times by 30%. After 600 hours of operation, only minor wear was observed on the tine tips, and the rotator remained fully sealed despite frequent immersion.
Recommended Maintenance and Operating Tips
To maximize performance and longevity:

• Grease rotator fittings every 50 hours using high-pressure lithium grease
  
• Inspect tine welds and rake frame monthly for fatigue or cracking
  
• Flush hydraulic lines annually to prevent contamination
  
• Use a flow restrictor if rake movement is too aggressive at high RPM
  
• Avoid side-loading the rake during rotation to preserve rotator bearings
  

Design Reflections and Future Improvements
While Rotobec’s power rake is already a high-performing attachment, future enhancements could include:

• Integrated load sensors for real-time weight feedback
  
• Wireless control modules for remote actuation
  
• Replaceable tine tips for field serviceability
  
• Modular rake widths for multi-machine compatibility
  

Conclusion
Pairing a Rotobec power rake with a Doosan Daewoo excavator creates a versatile and efficient tool for land clearing, debris sorting, and material handling. With proper hydraulic integration and routine maintenance, this combination offers precision, durability, and adaptability across a wide range of job sites. Whether in forestry, disaster recovery, or urban demolition, the synergy between Rotobec’s engineering and Doosan’s hydraulic muscle delivers results that speak for themselves.