As Australia’s waste and recycling sector continues to evolve, the pressure is on to improve operational efficiency, safety, and equipment reliability – especially in applications like compactors and refuse collection vehicles. Automation is playing a growing role in meeting these demands, and the latest generation of ecomatBasic controllers from ifm is designed to support that shift.
Developed for use in harsh environments, the ecomatBasic controller is built to withstand vibration, and temperature extremes – conditions that are all too familiar in waste operations. Its compact design makes it suitable for tight cab installation spaces, while offering two controllers in one housing i.e. standard and safety (SIL 2, PL d).
What makes this controller particularly relevant to the waste sector is its balance of simplicity and capability. It allows operators to connect sensors and drive outputs with ease and efficient engine control via J1939, enabling control of machinery but at the same time also allowing the flexibility to incorporate safety functionality. This can help reduce the complexity of running two separate systems for safety and standard operations, improve safety compliance, and streamline maintenance.
For councils and OEMs looking to modernise their fleets or retrofit older equipment, the ecomatBasic offers a practical and future-ready solution.
As the industry continues to embrace digital tools and smarter infrastructure, technologies like this are helping to bridge the gap between rugged fieldwork and intelligent automation.
To learn more, visit: www.ifm.com