Get to Know the Benefits of Remote-Control Equipment Via Seppi M.’s MAX 50le

Remote-control equipment is gaining momentum — and for good reason. First, there’s the ability to access hard-to-reach spaces that a cabbed machine may not fit. Then there’s the power to perform certain tasks quicker and with less manpower. Safety is another bonus as the operator isn’t put into an unsafe situation involving hazardous materials or dangerous conditions. Instead he or she is operating the equipment from a safe distance with great visibility. Below, we chat with Lorenz Seppi, president of Seppi M., about the market for this type of equipment as well as the company’s MAX 50le remote carrier.

1. When looking at remote-controlled compact equipment, can you explain the benefits of this technology and these machines?

Seppi M. is known for its mowers, mulchers and crushers, which the company has been producing for most of its 85 year history. In recent years, the need for these machines has been growing due to the need to replace manual labor in agriculture, road maintenance and land clearing. In other words, weed-trimmer crews have been replaced by machines that can do the job faster, safer and with fewer people. This is where remotely operated vehicles come in. In many cases, the work that needs to be done by hand today is in areas that are inaccessible to traditional machines such as tractors, loaders or excavators. Remotely operated tool carriers make it possible to reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible for a variety of reasons. This is one of the factors that makes these machines so popular today.

2. What kind of applications do remote-control machines excel in? Who would benefit the most from operating these?

If we look at the applications where Seppi products can be used, remote controlled vehicles have many advantages. One of the main applications is of course roadside mowing, where these units can reach areas that no tractor or boom mower can reach. For example, small, steep green areas between highway intersections, ramps and around bridges. Instead of a crew of a handful of people moving to the site, it can all be done by one operator with a small truck. There is no need for heavy low beds to haul tractors to the jobsite.

The machines are able to go into steep terrain, wet areas, tight spaces and height-restricted areas. In addition, the risk of injury from the use of hand tools and exposure to rough terrain and vegetation can be greatly reduced. But that is not all! Our machines are used by trail builders to prepare and shape mountain bike trails, are very popular with rental companies because they are easier to transport and use than traditional machines, and are used for specialized land clearing work on contaminated sites.

3. Can you tell us about your MAX 50le? What features make this product stand out?

Seppi has been making the specific attachments for other remote controlled carriers for years before we built our own. You have to understand the application to optimize weight, center of gravity, ground clearance and so on. And that is exactly what we did. Today, our downsized “MICROFORST rc” forestry mulcher beats the competition in its segment. It has brute power and yet is probably the lightest on the market.

Our range today includes the 50-hp MAX 50le remote carrier with three native attachments: a mower, a mulcher and a rock crusher. We will soon be introducing our 75-hp machine to the U.S. market. Both machines have features such as automatic track tensioning, hydro-pneumatic (floating) attachment suspension and easy access for all maintenance activities.

4. Do you have any operational and/or safety tips for operating a remote-controlled unit?

There are a few areas where it is safe to stand near the remote-controlled mulcher. That is why our people train the new owner and operators extensively when the machine is delivered. It is important to understand all the risks involved. One of the main concerns with mulchers is always the projection of debris such as rocks and so on. For this reason, our machines are supplied with a helmet with a visor that the operator must wear. The machines are fun and safe to work with if you follow a few basic safety principles.

5. Do you see the market for remote-controlled options growing?

The market for remotely operated vehicles is still young. There are many applications that can be performed better with remotely operated vehicles, and we can see increased use in many different areas as the technology becomes more widely available.