Friday, 05 March 2021 09:55

Fert spreader controls easy, at your fingertips

Written by  Mark Daniel
Giltrap's new Widetrac is a cost-effective, easy-to-use fertiliser spreader that eliminates the need for manual adjustment. Giltrap's new Widetrac is a cost-effective, easy-to-use fertiliser spreader that eliminates the need for manual adjustment.

Giltrap Engineering's new WideTrac is said to be a cost-effective, easy-to-use fertiliser spreader that eliminates the need for manual adjustment.

Using an automatic electronic control system, the need for a specific forward speed and a specific hopper door opening height are removed. Set up requires a few steps with two control buttons, with operators only needing to input required spread rate, fertiliser density and spread width. Once inputted to the panel on the front of the hopper, the control system calculates the best belt speed and rear door opening to meet the spread targets. As speed changes because of terrain or load, it makes on-the-move adjustments automatically.

WideTrac spreaders are available with capacities of 4, 6 or 8 tonnes, with all models having the option of tandem or single axle layouts.

A key feature is a lightweight, yet durable, low density plastic (LDPE) body, said to offer flexibility and impact resistance. The bin has inner and outer walls, both 8mm thick, with the air gap between allowing a fully galvanised steel frame, that has no direct contact with any fertiliser.

In the forward bulkhead, a large viewing panel allow operator visibility to the interior of the hopper. The construction is modular, featuring several panels, so if one is ever damaged, it can be easily replaced without the need to replace the entire bin.

In the base of the hopper, the rubber floor belt is 780mm wide, 8mm thick, and constructed with 5mm high cleats. The belt is riveted to the galvanised chain and slat assembly with high-tensile stainless mono-bolts. At the business end of the spreader, the rear door is galvanised, while the spinners are stainless steel.

The spinner discs can work at speeds up to 1000 rpm. They produce an even spread at widths up to 24m with granulated fertilisers.

 Giltrap Engineering North Island area manager Eric Crosby says the spreading system is hydraulically-driven, so there is no threat of wheel slip disrupting spreading, which can happen with ground drive systems that use a jockey wheel.

“With its wide belt, the WideTrac can spread virtually any product, from superphosphate to urea or lime, handle organic products such as poultry manure or compost and offer spreading rates extend from 40 to 5000 kg/ha.

“While the frame is hot dip galvanised, all other metal parts are galvanised or stainless steel (including the belt chains) for excellent corrosion resistance. Operator control is achieved via a hand-held remote, with a red button to stop spreading and a green to resume operations.”

Eric says, “with accurate fertiliser spreading being a topical subject, we believe it will come in for more attention over the next few years as regional authorities increase compliance requirements. The WideTrac is a unique spreader that provides a simple, affordable way for farmers to apply fertiliser accurately so they can meet those compliance regulations.”

More like this

100 years of Farmall Tractors

Returning after an enforced break, the Wheat and Wheels Rally will take place on the Lauriston -Barhill Road, North-East of Ashburton on 6-7th April.

AGTEK and ARGO part ways

After 12 years of representing the Landini and McCormick brands in New Zealand, Bay of Plenty-based AGTEK and the brands’ manufacturer have mutually decided to wind up their long-standing agreement.

JD introduces new S7 Series headers

John Deere says its S Series combines have been redesigned and optimised with innovative technologies to build on their proven performance in Australian and New Zealand conditions.

Rubber mats keep pushy cows steady

Waikato farm manager Grant McLaggan knew he had a problem two years ago when a few pushy cows ended up in the pit of his 30-aside herringbone milking shed.

Can-Am showcases range

Based on industry data collected by the Motor Industry Association, Can-Am is the number one side-by-side manufacturer in New Zealand.

Featured

Sheep drench resistance costly

Analysis by Dunedin-based Techion New Zealand shows the cost of undetected drench resistance in sheep has exploded to an estimated $98 million a year.

Dairy sheep and goat turmoil

Dairy sheep and goat farmers are being told to reduce milk supply as processors face a slump in global demand for their products.

Hurry up and slow down!

OPINION: We have good friends from way back who had lived in one of our major cities for many years.

National

Govt urged to reduce ETS units

The Climate Change Commission wants the new Government to reduce NZ Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) auction volumes as son as…

Dairy sheep, goat woes mount

Dairy sheep and goat farmers are being told to reduce milk supply as processors face a slump in global demand…

Machinery & Products

All-terrain fert spreading mode

Effluent specialists the Samson Group have developed a new double unloading system to help optimise uphill and downhill organic fertiliser…

Can-Am showcases range

Based on industry data collected by the Motor Industry Association, Can-Am is the number one side-by-side manufacturer in New Zealand.

» Latest Print Issues Online

Milking It

Papal visit

OPINION: European farmers are going to extreme lengths to have their message heard.

Thai egg tarts

OPINION: The hustle and bustle of one of Bangkok's most popular fast food outlets may feel a world away from…

» Connect with Dairy News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter