Hilltip has enhanced its HTrack winter maintenance system with the new StrikeSmart PLUS controller, designed for the company’s spreaders and sprayers. The advanced 8.7-inch touchscreen interface provides real-time weather and surface condition monitoring, offering intelligent recommendations for material selection and application rates. This automation ensures precise, efficient ice control while reducing operator workload.
Integrated Sensor Network for Precision
The system pairs with Hilltip’s TempStriker sensor to continuously track environmental factors including temperature, humidity, and surface conditions. By combining live data with hyperlocal weather forecasts, the technology calculates optimal treatment strategies for various materials – from granular salt to liquid brine – tailored to current and predicted conditions at the operator’s exact location.
Automated Rate Adjustment Boosts Efficiency
When operators accept the system’s recommendations, the equipment automatically adjusts spread patterns and spray rates in response to vehicle speed changes. This real-time calibration maintains consistent material application across treated surfaces while allowing drivers to concentrate on safe vehicle operation. The precision technology virtually eliminates both wasteful over-application and ineffective under-treatment scenarios.
Eliminating the Guesswork in Winter Maintenance
“Many operators struggle with material selection and application rates, particularly with liquid treatments,” explained Craig Sandmann, Hilltip’s North American Sales/Operations lead. “Our StrikeSmart PLUS replaces uncertainty with data-driven decisions, functioning like a digital road scout that ensures perfect material application for every condition.” The system represents a significant leap forward in winter maintenance technology.
Optional Upgrade for Existing Equipment
Available as an optional feature for Hilltip’s IceStriker spreaders and SprayStriker sprayers, the new controller provides fleets with customizable technology adoption. This flexible approach allows winter maintenance operations to modernize their equipment at their own pace while immediately benefiting from improved material efficiency and treatment effectiveness.
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