Helios Unveils MultiSlide for Excavators for Compact Power and Seamless Connections
In a bold move set to reshape the compact excavator market, Helios Technologies has officially launched its latest innovation: the MultiSlide quick coupling system. Developed by its hydraulics subsidiary Faster S.r.l., this new product answers a growing demand for smarter, more efficient hydraulic connections on machines weighing between 3,000 and 7,000 lbs (30 to 70 hundredweights). And it doesn’t just make life easier for operators; it marks a strategic step forward for Helios as it carves out deeper inroads into high-value niche markets.
“We’re proud to introduce MultiSlide, the latest addition to our hydraulics product portfolio. This product innovation builds on the strengths of Faster’s award-winning quick-release coupling engineering designs and its launch marks a step forward in how we serve our customers and grow our business,” stated Sean Bagan, President, CEO, and CFO of Helios Technologies.
Listening to Operators, Delivering Real Solutions
There’s no question that compact excavator operators face gruelling, repetitive tasks, often in awkward, cramped conditions. That’s exactly why the MultiSlide was designed with practicality front and centre. The design team at Faster didn’t simply imagine what operators needed—they asked. The result? A retrofit-ready system that genuinely eases the strain.
“Designed in direct response to customer feedback, the MultiSlide delivers practical innovation for compact excavator applications while opening a new, high-value revenue stream for the Company,” Bagan explained. *”It’s a great example of how listening to our customers drives smarter solutions and long-term growth.”
What Makes MultiSlide Stand Out?
Let’s talk features. This isn’t just another hydraulic coupling. The MultiSlide delivers a suite of thoughtful design elements that combine into something much greater than the sum of its parts:
- Quick retrofit installation using a dedicated metal plate included in the box
- Exceptionally soft connection feel, reducing operator fatigue
- Ultra-compact design that eliminates hose snagging and minimises interference
- Hands-free operation through a clever sliding bracket mechanism
- Protected storage via a tough docking station when not in use
Each feature reflects Faster’s laser focus on practical design. And it’s not just lip service.
“Engineered with retrofit simplicity in mind, MultiSlide is easy to install on existing machines thanks to its integrated mounting plate. This solution delivers a smooth, low-effort connection and disconnection experience, even under pressure—redefining the standard for hydraulic couplings in the field,” said Matteo Arduini, President of Hydraulics, EMEA.
Engineered for the Real World
In construction and earthmoving, reliability isn’t optional—it’s survival. MultiSlide steps up with industry-grade specs that leave no doubt about its performance. Here’s what it’s packing:
- Connection Under Pressure (CUP) couplings rated to 350 Bar
- Two configurations: either two 1/2″ lines or a triple layout with two 1/2″ and one 3/8″
- Corrosion resistance via CR III surface treatment
- Temperature tolerance from -25°C to +120°C
These aren’t just numbers on paper. They translate directly into durability in harsh conditions—from frozen worksites to blazing hot quarries.
Built with Retrofit in Mind
One of the most compelling selling points? MultiSlide isn’t just for new machinery. It’s designed for easy retrofitting onto existing equipment, giving owners a low-cost, high-impact upgrade option that sidesteps the usual headaches of system overhauls.
The included docking station is another masterstroke. Operators can safely stow the coupling plate when it’s not in use, keeping everything clean, protected, and ready for action.
Driving Strategic Growth at Helios
Beyond the product itself, MultiSlide marks a clear shift in Helios Technologies’ market strategy. Rather than chasing broad, one-size-fits-all products, the company is zeroing in on niche demands and tailored solutions.
This strategic pivot isn’t just theoretical. The MultiSlide’s entry into the compact excavator market opens up a valuable new revenue channel—one that also deepens Helios’s relationships with OEMs and contractors alike.
Faster S.r.l., the engineering powerhouse behind the system, has long been trusted by industries ranging from agriculture to heavy construction. Since 1951, they’ve built a reputation for coupling tech that marries precision with practicality. Their well-known MultiFaster product line already supports some of the most demanding hydraulic applications on the planet.
Looking Ahead: Market Launch and Global Reach
The official commercial launch of MultiSlide is slated for 19 May 2025, and anticipation is already building across Helios’s global network. With sales in over 90 countries and a consistent quarterly dividend paid since going public in 1997, Helios Technologies is more than ready to scale this innovation across continents.
By incorporating customer-centric design, rugged engineering, and strategic foresight, MultiSlide represents much more than just a new product. It’s a signal of what’s to come from Helios—targeted innovation that tackles real-world problems and creates tangible value across the construction equipment ecosystem.
Built for a Smarter Future
In an industry where time is money and breakdowns can make or break a job, the value of a reliable, ergonomic, and adaptable hydraulic coupling system can’t be overstated. MultiSlide proves that small innovations can make a big impact—especially when they come from companies willing to listen, adapt, and deliver.
Helios and Faster have managed to blend innovation with intuition, and the results speak volumes. Whether you’re a machine operator, equipment manager, or OEM, the MultiSlide could well become the new benchmark in hydraulic connection technology for compact excavators.
