Friday, 17 February 2023 13:55

Weeds all wiped out

Written by  Mark Daniel
The new Rotowiper TR machine’s layout allows excellent ground contouring over the full working width. The new Rotowiper TR machine’s layout allows excellent ground contouring over the full working width.

Over the years, Ashburton- based Rotowiper has followed one main objective: to design and manufacture an effective, cost-efficient method of controlling/eradicating weed infestation in pasture and crops.

Receiving positive feedback from farmers and growers around the world, the company has achieved its main objective. However, recently it has been developing new formats to meet individual conditions in different markets around the globe.

The new Rotowiper TR series is a case in point. It is proving to be very successful, featuring ease of operation with simple height adjustment, delivered by a new single heavy-duty ratchet assembly. Likewise, the roller drive engagement is actioned with a simple spring-loaded pin, meaning the machine can be quickly disengaged for transport or re-engaged once back in the paddock.

Other features include a drawbar that can be raised vertically for transporting or storage, without tools, and stainless steel covers throughout to give the machine a quality appearance. However, more importantly, this also delivers durability and improves the machine’s longevity.

A redesign of the frame features larger box section steel, and a “box” style frame layout, both resulting in superior strength and durability. Heavy-duty stub axles are equipped with high-speed bearings to help endure the rigours of high-speed road travel road travel alongside the punishment delivered on unmade farm tracks and large acreages.

UTV style towing vehicles, the chemical tank has now been repositioned from the drawbar to above the application roller. This has removed weight transfer from the rear of the vehicles, while also allowing a levelling device to be fitted – if required.

Rotowiper is able to offer a bespoke production and configuration service.

The company recently completed its largest machine to date, offering a 24-metre working width and one metre clearance under the application roller. Comprising seven individual roller sections, the machine was developed for a Canterbury contractor who was dealing with bolters in the increasingly popular fodder beet crops being grown.

The machine’s layout allows excellent ground contouring over the full working width. By using a combination of hydraulic and electronic control, it quickly moves on from its original intended use by also dealing with other weeds such as Californian thistles.

www.rotowiper.com

More like this

Claas Jaguar 1000 and Orbis 10500 Win ASABE Innovation Awards

After its flagship 1200 model set a Guiness World Record in forage harvesting, mopping up 4096 tonnes of whole crop silage in 12 hours, Claas has picked up a brace of awards from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ASABE).

Gallagher Celebrates 40 Years at Northland Field Days

This year's Northland Field Days marks an important milestone – 40 years of bringing farmers, growers, innovators and rural communities together. For Gallagher, it’s a milestone they’re proud to be part of.

A highlight on the regional council’s annual calendar

OPINION: As the Northland Agricultural Field Days celebrates an impressive 40 years, Northland Regional Council (NRC) extends its congratulations to the current and past organising committees for reaching this milestone.

Featured

Global Trade Uncertainty 'Likely To Remain'

Global trade has been thrown into another bout of uncertainty following the overnight ruling by US Supreme Court, striking down President Donald Trump's decision to impose additional tariffs on trading partners.

National

Machinery & Products

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

Bulldust!

OPINION: Here w go: the election date is set for November 7 and the politicians are out of the gate…

No good news?

OPINION: ECan data was released a few days ago showing Canterbury farmers have made “giant strides on environmental performance”.

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter