A formidable duo for tillage
The new Lemken Solitair MR series mounted drills, available in three or four metre working widths, features a 1500-litre tank, which is suitable for fertiliser even in its basic configuration.
With a likelihood that fertiliser prices may take another hike because of ships bypassing the Suez Canal, smart farmers will be taking a closer look at their dairy effluent as a nutrient source – with additional benefits gained by increasing soil organic matter, leading to improved water holding, aeration and drainage.
Research suggests that 100 cows, milked over a 270-day season, will produce a volume of effluent equivalent to 590kg of nitrogen, 70kg of phosphorous and 540kg of potassium, meaning that well utilised material can help reduce the dependence on bought-in products.
Otorohanga-based Giltrap Engineering offers a range of slurry tankers with capacities from 5000 to 20,000 litres, running on tandem or triple-axle layouts depending on size, with corresponding axles sized from 60 to 130mm and dependent on specification utilising 10-stud commercial wheels.
Tank diameters vary depending on capacity, but all feature high-grade rolled steel of 6mm wall thickness, or 8mm in the case of the largest unit, with domed end panels to create integrity. The vessel is carried on an integrated heavy-duty chassis and drawbar assembly, with a large range of options to suit individual situations. These include braking systems, various tyre equipment, sprung/steering axles, suspended drawbars or mudguards. For those looking for proof of placement information, options include flow pumps and GPS coverage maps accessed through an easy-to-use touch-screen system.
The heart of the machine centres around a high-end Battioni- Pagani rotary vane vacuum pump with capacities of 6500 to 12,000 litres per minute, depending on model. The vacuum/pressure system is protected by a double moisture trap, with relief valves in each circuit, with a sight glass to monitor filing, while the use of brass and galvanised fittings throughout give effective corrosion protection.
Separate filling points allow the machines to operate in situations where there might be access issues, with the option of an autofill set up allows users to fill the tank without leaving the tractor seat, helping to promote cleanliness and more importantly, safety.
Detail design sees inspection hatches on the side and top of the tank for easy access for maintenance or cleaning, while up to three integral tank baffles prevents “surge” as the tank empties or fills.
Machines are supplied with 150 or 200mm lightweight, sectional filling hoses, in lengths of up to 8m. A high-quality paint finish externally, complemented by an epoxy paint coating inside the tank, should help the machine look good over an extended working life.
Applications are open for Horticulture New Zealand’s (HortNZ) 2025 scholarship programme with18 funding opportunities for students with a special interest in the commercial fruit and vegetable industry.
A lot depends on what happens in the next few months. That's the view of Federated Farmers Otago president, Luke Kane.
A group of volunteers from Lincoln University known as the 'Handy Landies' is among those descending on Otago to help farmers get their properties back to normal.
In another sign of improving agribusiness sentiment, two listed companies have lifted their forecast earnings for the year.
Three nominations have been received for two vacant director positions on meat processor, Alliance Group's board.
Canterbury milk processor Synlait says some farmer suppliers have been inquiring about the process to remove their cessation notices, handed in earlier this year.
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