iCUT by Ferri, the family of radio-controlled tool carriers
On the Ferri stand in Hanover, the spotlight was on the iCUT series, the professional range of radio-controlled tool-carrying machines designed for demanding work or in potentially operator-critical environments.
Agile in manoeuvres and stable even on uneven terrain, the iCUT line is appreciated for its intuitive controls and its large remote control range (up to 200 metres). All models in the series are equipped with a closed-circuit hydraulic system, which reduces oil heating and optimises performance by adapting the oil flow and pressure ratio to the actual power demand. This technology - explains the company from Tamara (Ferrara) in a technical note - allows the power output to be precisely metered according to the power required, keeping fuel consumption as low as possible. For all auxiliary services, all iCUT models have a separate open-circuit hydraulic system; the VENTING valve, located on the distributor, decreases dissipation when no operational control is activated (this is the case during the transfer phase). The thruster cooling system (Yanmar or Hatz depending on the model) is liquid cooled and features the FLEXXAIRE device, with reversible, hydro-pneumatically controlled fans that allow the air flow to be changed, either automatically or manually, thus cleaning the radiator of any build-up of material and always favouring a degree of cooling such that it can work even in difficult environmental conditions and 'impossible' temperatures.
The machine's controls are ergonomically arranged and intuitive, allowing the best possible use of the tool carrier from the very first use (two large ergonomic joysticks ensure total control of the machine and the attached equipment). Compulsory training courses are, however, provided by the company before delivery.
The radio control is set up to operate in multi-frequency mode, constantly searching for the best possible frequency, however, the operator can also manually select a frequency deemed most suitable. In addition to the immediate stop button, the radio control console features, among others, indicators for hydraulic oil coolant temperature, radio control battery charge, radio signal power and channel, engine oil pressure, fuel reserve warning, engine revolution indication, rotor engaged indicator, and control reversal for operating the tool carrier in the opposite direction to the direction of travel. The extendable undercarriage is another plus of the iCUT range. Made of special high-strength steel, the undercarriage offers the possibility of changing the track width directly from the radio control according to ground conditions and slope. This can also be done in seconds during machining.
The innovative low centre of gravity design allows work up to extreme powers where even for us 'humans' it would be difficult to proceed normally. Thanks to optimal weight distribution and a low centre of gravity, the Ferri tool carrier is able to operate at slope angles in all directions of up to 55° with optimum grip and traction in all conditions. Ferri has provided two versions for this family of machines: iCUT 3.40 equipped with a Stage V Yanmar three-cylinder 40 Hp diesel engine and iCUT 3.60 powered by a Hatz three-cylinder turbo intercooler with 60 Hp, also Stage V.
