Tethered vs. Wireless Remotes for Concrete Mixer Trucks
Enhancing safety and efficiency
For concrete ready mix operators, the choice between tethered and wireless remotes is a critical consideration that impacts both precision and safety. While tethered remotes have traditionally been the industry standard, today’s wireless remotes have introduced a host of benefits that are hard to ignore, particularly in terms of safety and operational efficiency.
Understanding Tethered Remotes
Tethered remotes, as their name suggests, are physically connected to the concrete mixer truck via a cable. This setup provides a straightforward method of controlling the various functions of the mixer truck, such as rotating the drum, adjusting the speed, and discharging the concrete. Tethered remotes are often favored for their simplicity and direct connection, which minimizes lags in communication between the remote and the mixer.
However, the tethered nature of these remotes imposes certain limitations. The operator's mobility is restricted by the length of the cable, which can be a significant drawback in dynamic and potentially hazardous environments. Additionally, the physical connection means that the operator is often required to stay in close proximity to the mixer truck, which, as we'll see, can pose serious safety risks.
The Rise of Wireless Remotes
Wireless remotes offer a level of freedom and flexibility that tethered remotes cannot. These remotes use radio frequencies to communicate with the mixer truck, eliminating the need for a physical connection. This allows operators to move freely around the job site, positioning themselves in the safest and most advantageous locations to control the mixer.
The advantages of wireless remotes go beyond just convenience. In conversation with Doug Graham, the Head of Sales at Aarcomm, he shares real-world examples that highlight the critical safety benefits of wireless technology.
Safety: A Critical Advantage of Wireless Remotes
One of the most compelling arguments for wireless remotes is their ability to enhance operator safety. Doug shared the scenario of a mixer truck pouring concrete into a pump. If the pump is not properly maintained, the elbow joint can explode under high pressure. In such an instance, an operator using a tethered remote is limited in how far they can move away from the potential explosion, increasing the risk of injury.
In contrast, a wireless remote allows the operator to position themselves at a safe distance while still maintaining full control of the mixer truck. This ability to stay clear of danger zones is not just a matter of convenience but a critical safety feature that can prevent serious accidents on the job site.
Another example provided by Doug involves pouring concrete into a boom pump in areas with overhead power lines. If the boom were to accidentally come into contact with a power line, an operator holding a tethered remote could be at severe risk due to the proximity to the truck and the conductive nature of the cable. With a wireless remote, the operator can maintain a safe distance from the mixer truck, significantly reducing the risk of electrocution and ensuring a safer working environment.
Efficiency: Streamlining Operations with Wireless Technology
Beyond safety, wireless remotes also offer significant efficiency benefits. The ability to move freely around the job site allows operators to monitor the concrete pour from multiple angles, ensuring that the work is being done correctly and reducing the need for rework. This level of flexibility can lead to faster project completion times and lower overall costs.
Wireless remotes also reduce the physical strain on operators. With a tethered remote, operators often need to maneuver the cable around obstacles or avoid tripping over it, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming. Wireless remotes such as Aarcomm’s Handheld Wireless Remote eliminate these challenges, allowing operators to focus on the task at hand without worrying about the logistics of cable management.
Wireless remotes are typically equipped with advanced features such as customizable controls and real-time feedback, which can further enhance operational efficiency. These features allow operators to fine-tune the performance of the mixer truck to meet the specific needs of the job, ensuring optimal results every time.
The Case for Consideration Wireless Remotes
While tethered remotes have their place in certain situations, the benefits of wireless remotes in terms of safety and efficiency make them the superior choice for most concrete mixer truck operations. The ability to maintain a safe distance from the truck and the freedom to move around the job site without being tethered to a cable can prevent accidents and improve overall productivity.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the adoption of wireless remotes is likely to become the standard for controlling concrete mixer trucks. Companies that prioritize the safety and efficiency of their operations will find that investing in wireless remote technology is not just a smart choice but a necessary one.
If you are interested in upgrading your concrete mixer to an Aarcomm Handheld remote control, check out our conversion kits for concrete mixer trucks.
