Ration mixer good on uneven ground

They are easily powered by tractors of 100-110hp.

Unlike the ZK machines, the VLL-S is taller, making it a more compact wagon; it has a front discharge door and wheels outside the tub, which lowers the centre of gravity – better for use on uneven roads or paddocks.

The twin auger VLL-S models are available in capacities 16 – 24m3, ideal for supplementary feeding of medium sized herds. By contrast the ZX series, holding up to 32m3, are the best solution for larger herds or farms making total mixed rations.

A low ratio gearbox fitted with a wide-angled PTO shaft helps reduce power demand at start-up and during mixing.

All Solomix 2 wagons use two Twin Stream vertical augers with oversized top and bottom flights, patented tub inserts and up to 12 self-sharpening blades.

The mixing augers thoroughly mix the ration and combine with the shape of the tub to create a homogenous mix that foxes choosy cows trying to pick out their favourite ingredients.

In operation, Trioliet’s aptly named Dual-Flow system causes 70% of the feed to move up the auger while 30% moves down, helping to mix consistent rations irrespective of the type of ingredient.

For chopping potatoes or fodder beet – now widely popular – two heavy-duty knives can be fitted to the bottom of the auger flights, removing the need for a chipping bucket. Hard ingredients can be chopped in a few minutes; the manufacturer recommends adding hard stuff to the tub first, chopping for five-eight minutes then adding the bulky materials for a complete mix.

The completed ration can be discharged via the forward mounted chain conveyor which has a height adjustable extension, allowing the machine to deal with a variety of feeding situations.

Standard features for NZ include stairs, viewing platform, windows and an adjustable weighing indicator, which all combine to allow the operator to watch mixing and feeding from the tractor seat.

All purchasers get subsidised nutrition advice from specialists Milk Map Consulting.