In construction and excavation, keeping operations safe and efficient is crucial for success. Now, with technology like data analysis, sensors and wireless remotes like Aarcomm's Dig Wand Wireless Kill Switch, we're seeing even more opportunity for improvement. This post explores how these updates are making hydrovac work safer and more effective than ever.

Role of Analytics and Monitoring in Hydrovac Operations

The adoption of analytics and monitoring in hydrovac operations offer critical insights into equipment usage, real-time operations and high-risk activities, in turn allowing for better planning and decision-making. 

Predictive Maintenance

Using monitoring, or predictive analytics, hydrovac operations can accurately track the exact usage of hours for water and vacuum pumps. In turn, this can help avoid costly replacements of vacuum pumps, which can exceed $20 000 if not properly maintained. Additionally, monitoring hydraulic pressure and temperature can prevent hose explosions, reducing the risk of hydraulic fuel or oil spills and making it safer for operators.

Proactive Safeguards

Leveraging data and analytics from past incidents, fleet operators can forecast potential hazards and take preventative action before accidents occur. For example, monitoring water and air pressure values over time can help determine how safe and efficient an operator is and whether job site rules are being complied with.

Efficiency Optimization

Through the use of sensors, analytics dashboards, and automated alerts, fleet operators gain a real-time view of operational metrics such as time spent at dump sites, time spent filling tanks, and the pressure readings for  both water and vacuum. All these data points enable fleets to assess and improve efficiencies.

Benefits of Sensors and Wireless Remote Control

The use of sensor and remote control technologies signify a move towards more autonomous operations, reducing human error and increasing precision.

Automated Safety Features

Leveraging sensor and control technologies prevents accidents and better supports operational safety. For example, sensors and controls are essential for reminding operators to secure the boom back in its saddle after use. The absence of such precautions can lead to the boom damaging overhead power lines, bridges and overpasses during transit from the jobsite. Pressure sensors play a pivotal role in ensuring the use of dig wands within safe pressure levels. In each of these examples, sensor technology reduces operational risks and ensures a safer working environment for hydrovac operators.

Remote Operations

The ability to control hydrovac equipment from a distance not only enhances safety by keeping operators away from potential hazards but also improves operational flexibility.

Automated responses

Systems equipped with sensors can detect and respond to unsafe conditions without human intervention, further safeguarding the excavation process.

Enhancing Safety with Aarcomm's Digwand Wireless Kill Switch

Aarcomm's Dig Wand Wireless Kill Switch is a game-changer in hydrovac excavation safety. It combines safety with the latest technology to instantly stop operations when danger is spotted. Here’s how it enhances safety:

Immediate Response

The switch uses sensors to shut down the operation quicker than any person could, protecting operators from accidents. For instance, if the operator loses grip and the wand moves unexpectedly, the switch turns everything off right away.

Use Case Specific

Water pressure requirements, angles of operation, and GForce on the dig wand will vary across different job sites. With the Aarcomm Digwand WKS, the sensor settings can be easily set to match the job at hand through the “Learn Mode” configuration setting.  

Safeguards Equipment

When a safety risk is detected by the wireless kill switch, the Aarcomm device stops the flow of water at the pump. This differs from traditional mechanical valves which stop the flow at the wand causing pressure to build in the pump, potentially causing damage to expensive equipment. 

The future of safe hydrovac digging relies heavily on new technologies. With the help of real-time data and analytics for predictive maintenance and better safety, plus the safety and efficiency-drive improvements from sensors and remote controls, we're stepping into a new phase of digging. By adopting these tech advancements, the hydrovac sector will continue to get safer, work more efficiently, and become even more reliable.