One of the most time-consuming parts of a pumping or hydroexcavation job is running back and forth between the end of the hose and the control module on the truck. That’s why Imperial Industries offers a fully remote-controlled vacuum system, designed to help operators dramatically cut the time they spend on the job site.
The remote control system made its debut last year on Imperial Industries’ 4,000-gallon aluminum tank, mounted on a 2018 International truck body equipped with an National Vacuum Equipment 4307 blower. The remote offers full control of the tank’s PTO and pneumatic valves, providing operators with the ability to switch between vacuum, neutral and pressure modes without ever leaving the end of their hose.
“It’s going to be a huge timesaver, and in this line of work, time is money,” says Kyle Haase, a sales manager with Imperial Industries. “By eliminating the need for operators to run to and from their truck several times during a single site visit, we’re doubling down on safety — helping them protect against potential accidents.”
The remote system is now available to be installed on any of Imperial Industries’ stock service truck units, and it may also be added to truck and tank combinations that are custom fit to an operator’s needs. According to Haase, the remote remains in operation up to 300 feet away from the truck-mounted receiver in ideal conditions.
“It’s going to save a lot of wear and tear on the operator’s body with not having to run back and forth nearly as much,” he says. “Our goal is to keep the operator at the front end of the hose, where they have the most control over the work they’re doing.”
Haase says he sees the capabilities of remote technology growing in the future. As technology becomes more advanced, even more functions on a vacuum or combo truck will be accessible via remote.
“It’s the wave of the future,” he says. “We’re going toward the idea of one operator being able to control everything on the rib from one stationary point.”
According to Haase, the remote system was developed after several of the company’s vacuum truck customers expressed interest. He sees a fit for the technology across many applications.
“It can be used anywhere you are using a vacuum truck with a small crew,” he says. “With companies making budget cuts, a lot are trying to do more with less. This system makes those operators’ jobs easier and is going to keep them safer.”
800-558-2945; www.imperialind.com
