Heil Launches Command-SST Automated Side Loader

Heil, part of Environmental Solutions Group (ESG) and Dover, and one of the nation's largest refuse truck body manufacturers, announced the launch of the Command-SST Automated Side Loader (ASL).

The Command-SST incorporates a host of new technologies that enhance safety, operational comfort, productivity and maintenance simplicity. All of these enhancements are the result of extensive customer-driven field research, backed by real-world testing to deliver a product that is simple to operate, especially for operators new to automated collection. Specifically, the Command-SST design includes:

"The Command-SST is the culmination of almost a decade of design and innovation, based on customer feedback regarding unfulfilled needs. Our engineers used this data to create a product that truly delivers on customer performance expectations," said Environmental Solutions Group President Pat Carroll in a statement.

One of the primary objectives that Heil engineers addressed was the development of an automated side loader that would thrive amid operator and maintenance technician turnover, a problem identified early on in customer interviews.

"We knew we had to deliver a side loader that was easier to operate for new drivers and simple to maintain with fewer moving parts," added Carroll. "The Command-SST has far fewer moving parts, 50 percent less cab shake for added operator comfort and an advanced in-cab monitor system that keeps the operator's eyes forward during cart acquisition and dump functions."

Eric Evans, vice president of mobile product management at Environmental Solutions Group, explained the importance of operator comfort and overall simplicity, both from a driver and a maintenance perspective, as key to addressing personnel shortages in the industry. "We've heard from all of our major customers that both operator and mechanic retention has been a primary concern, especially with the increased complexity of modern garbage trucks. The Command-SST addresses these needs head-on with innovative technologies that both the operator and the maintenance specialists will appreciate."

The Command-SST's arm functionality allows operators to grab carts in ditches, snowbanks or even carts that have tipped over, all from the safety of the cab. Additionally, the arm has settings that make it easier to grab cans that are positioned close together.

From a maintenance standpoint, the Command-SST arm delivers with fewer moving parts and reduced lubrication points that are all accessible at ground level. The arm also can be completely swapped out in an hour.

"From a complexity standpoint, Heil engineers delivered with an arm that can be easily swapped out if the arm is damaged," said Carroll. "This means that fleets running Command-SSTs will have better operational metrics and a far better return on investment. That's all part of delivering the lowest Total Cost of Collection."

The Command-SST is mounted to a Heil Durapack body, which tips the scales at 2,000 pounds less than other side loaders, which equates to better payloads and increased productivity. With the Odyssey-inspired hydraulic controls, fleet owners can expect fuel savings on par with the Front Loader. With the arm mounted to the body, the Command-SST also frees up frame space for next-generation technologies that require additional chassis real estate.