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Dual mower combinations offer increased output and better utilisation of tractors.
Triple 'butterfly' or dual mower combinations have become increasingly popular, offering increased output and better utilisation of tractors that keep gaining horsepower.
Working in straight runs and sufficient overlap between the front and rear mowing units, missed crop is not usually a problem, but during turns and depending on the length of the combination, strips can often be missed, leaving what is often described as a Mohican finish.
Seeking to deliver optimum tracking on turns, reduce losses and offer precision without time-consuming adjustments, Pottinger has launched new automatic curved side shifting on the Novacat F 3100 mower.
This side shift system on the front mower guarantees a perfect overlap with the rear mower and ensures the tractor drives along a clear track free of forage when cornering and working on steep ground. The curved arc of movement means that the entire working width of the cutter bars can be used at all times, offering maximum productivity, unlike competitive solutions that use straightline side shift solutions, which can still leave several centimetres of crop remaining uncut.
In operation, should the tractor drift sideways when cornering or on steep terrain, the rear tyre of the tractor does not run over uncut grass because the mower shifts towards the inner radius of the curve, ensuring that no forage is left uncut, as the front mower overlaps perfectly with the rear unit.
The system works via its ability to detect the changing degrees of overlap between the front mower and the tractor or rear mower(s) and respond automatically. Automatic mode allows the operator to concentrate on their surroundings and driving the tractor, with the added advantage of fewer turning manoeuvres to “tidy up”, meaning there is less damage to the sward and the ground.
An optional ISOBUS automation package controls the side shift of the mower automatically, depending on the turning angle of the tractor or the inclination of the slope to the left or right. This means that the driver’s workload is significantly reduced because no intervention is required.
Operating large tractors became more expensive back in March due to the ongoing Strait of Hormuz conflict, meaning contractors had to introduce fuel surcharges and farmers had to adjust their budget forecasts.
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