In a significant step forward for Australian roadwork machinery, Quality Fabrication & Engineering (QFEAUS) has unveiled a purpose-built control system for its flagship “Road Ant” forward-moving aggregate spreader. This next-generation system was engineered from the ground up to redefine ease of use, safety, and on-site repairability.
After years of innovation and direct feedback from operators, the new system is already making waves on spray sealing projects across South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.
The project was driven by a need to improve upon existing systems that were often overcomplicated and outdated. “We thought there is always room for improvement,” said Adam Wernicke, the Auto Electrical Technician instrumental in the system’s development. “One major driver… was creating an ease of repairability for the spray seal machine. I wanted to build a system that could be fixed on the side of the road, if necessary, with really basic tools.”
Safety is Paramount
At the heart of the new system are QFEAUS’s core mission values: safety, durability, versatility, and innovation. The design significantly enhances worksite safety by simplifying operation and reducing the number of personnel required near the machinery.
“We want our machines to be as safe as possible. Zero harm is our goal,” says Wernicke. “Where old systems required one or more people to be spotters… the new system proves this isn’t necessary.”
Intelligent, Operator-Focused Design
The control system is packed with features designed to reduce operator stress and minimise downtime. Key features include a fully integrated automatic conveyor chain oiler that alerts operators to service intervals, and an advanced fault detection process that displays diagnostics visually on-screen.
“We were told the interface was too complex, so we simplified it,” Wernicke explains. “We want the operator to be focused completely on his work rather than fussing with the control of the machine.”
For any roadside issues that can’t be fixed with a basic toolkit, operators can call the QFEAUS team, who can guide them through the fix using the on-screen diagnostics.
Truck-Agnostic and Built for the Future
A standout feature is the system’s truck-agnostic integration. Its adaptable software is designed to communicate with nearly any truck chassis, including Hino, Isuzu, Volvo, DAF, and Iveco. This gives operators the freedom to use their preferred trucks and established fleets.
Furthermore, software updates are now as simple as downloading the update to a USB stick, eliminating the need for internet connectivity on-site and costly downtime during service.
This new control system is a clear reflection of QFEAUS’s commitment to delivering practical, innovative, and safety-focused solutions that meet the real-world needs of the road maintenance industry.
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Learn More About the Road Ant™ Forward-Moving Aggregate Spreader Here