For IDCO member RGA, finding reliable, efficient solutions for demanding environments like steel mills is a top priority. That’s why they turned to Dixon Valve & Coupling’s Modular Connection System (MCS)—a product that’s been delivering on both performance and productivity.
RGA first tested the MCS over a year ago in the caster department of a steel mill, where operators frequently encountered a recurring problem: when a caster segment was swapped out, the hydraulic assemblies would often get crossed during reinstallation. This not only led to delays but also to potential safety and performance issues.
Dixon’s MCS offered a game-changing solution. With a modular, multi-coupling plate design, the system connects up to 10 hydraulic hoses in a single, smooth motion, dramatically reducing setup errors and installation time. According to Nicole Hertzfeld, Toledo Branch Manager at RGA, the system underwent a nine-month trial. When the couplers were pulled for inspection, “the seals were still intact with no signs of failure.” That reliability has led the mill to begin installing the couplers on every caster segment.
What set Dixon’s system apart during RGA’s evaluation wasn’t just ease of use—it was the combination of speed, configurability, and serviceability. The HTE valve technology provides best-in-class connect-under-pressure performance. At the same time, Dixon’s patented coupling retention method means individual couplings can be repaired or replaced easily in the field—no special tools required. Add over 450 possible configurations, and you have a truly built system for real-world flexibility.
Dixon and RGA’s collaboration highlights how smart, modular design can solve industry-specific challenges, reduce downtime, and keep operations moving. It’s another example of how supplier-member relationships across The Hoser Network drive innovation and value where it matters most.