Product feature: FAE Group's new RCU range

Date: 24.06.2024

The RCU range consists of two models

FAE RCU-55

The RCU range consists of two models

FAE RCU-55

FAE Group has entered the compact remote-control market with the introduction of the RCU range, consisting of two models

After many years of producing a range of purpose-built tracked carriers known as the PT range, FAE Group from Italy has entered the compact remote-control market with the introduction of the RCU range, consisting of two models.

"FAE started working on this new range a few years ago, as they identified that there was a need in the market for a dedicated purpose-built machine, as they had previously supplied other manufacturers with their tried-and-tested fixed tooth mulching heads, but this was more frequently than not causing issues with the end user," explains Ray Copland attachments product manager for Rotorua-based Active VMA.

The FAE Group decided to start from the ground up to manufacture a tracked remote-control unit, drawing upon their existing innovation from the PT range.

By integrating the same level of ingenuity into a compact design, they developed a machine that they say can stand up to the harsh environment in which it operates.

The range comprises two options: one with 56hp and the other with 74hp, both powered by Kohler diesel engines.

These engines sit in a purpose-built protective chassis along with hydraulic pumps and all electronic components, which prevents foreign objects from getting into the machine.

The range also includes a load control management system that detects the load on the mulcher rotor, which automatically lowers the forward speed and returns to the set speed when mulching heavier material. This allows the operator to concentrate on other functions.

Both models come standard with a purpose-built undercarriage with hydraulic variable width adjustment, triple flanged idlers, automatic tensioning system, oscillating roller system, and rubber tracks, allowing these units to work on up to 55-degree slopes. The 75hp model also has the option of steel single-grouser tracks.

Other features include a proportional and reversible engine fan system with hydraulic control, a controller unit with a 3.5-inch colour LCD screen, two batteries with an on-board charger, and LED work lights.

The models can be supplied with a swinging flail grass mulcher for light vegetation and a fixed tooth version with bite limiter rotor for gorse, forestry slash, and a stump cutter.

Active VMA says the fixed tooth version with bite limiter rotor is the most popular with customers, with a number of these currently being used on skid steers and excavators in New Zealand.

The FAE RCU range has now been working around the world for the past two years. After talking to operators across in Australia, who previously operated other machines, their feedback was positive, according to Active VMA.

One owner commented, "It was great to finally have a machine that worked the whole week without any downtime resulting in them getting through workload and making a profit."

For more information, visit activevma.co.nz.

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