Lely order book 'slightly better'
Dairy automation company Lely reported a 3.4% decline in total turnover last year but notes that sales are picking up.
However, cultivation and seeding specialist Maschio has bucked the trend, with the recent release of its Toro Isotronic folding power harrow.
Available in 5, 6 and 7 metre working widths, the 4.3 to 5.1 tonne heavyweights. The new models offer a range of new features designed to increase production and extend the service life of the machines.
The ISOBUS functions include the monitoring areas such as power consumption, gearbox speeds and operating temperatures, working depth, hours/hectares worked, drive shaft loadings – as well as the switch from working to transport position.
Increases in gearbox operating temperatures might suggest the oil levels need checking, that forward speed needs reducing, or an adjustment needs to be made to working depth. Likewise, driveshaft torque monitoring might indicate that forward speed is too high or depth is too great and driveshaft slip detection might mean a foreign object is jammed between the rotors. Combined, this improved machine monitoring should help increase productivity and protect the machine against premature failures or consequential damage.
Additionally, the central gearbox features an improved cooling system. This allows the machine to work at optimum operating temperatures in hot zones, while the driveshafts to the lateral gearboxes are also monitored for proper alignment after moving from the transport to work position.
Elsewhere around the machine, a range of improvements include a larger 550mm diameter rear packer roller, said to improve flotation; the increased weight gives better consolidation and a finer tilth; and the roller is supported on improved Blindato bearing assemblies, incorporating new polymide/ polyurethane seal to stop moisture and dirt ingress.
Behind the rotor and ahead of the rear roller, a new levelling bar is now 200mm high. This compares to the 160mm of the old design, as well as 30mm nearer the tines to increase clod breakdown.
Other useful features include a new LED lighting system and a modified PTO shaft stowage bracket. There are also heavy-duty steel covers over key components.
