Campey set to exhibit at STMA

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Campey set to exhibit at STMA: Campey Turf Care Systems is set to exhibit at the 33rd annual STMA conference and exhibition between the 17th and 20th January 2022.

This year’s event is taking place at the Savanah Convention Centre, Georgia. It will feature Campey’s latest synthetic, hybrid and natural turf grooming products, and a new addition to the US from Campey, the Martin Lishman Micro-Spray.

Campey set to exhibit at STMA

Campey set to exhibit at STMA

The key aim of the Micro-Spray is bringing versatility to the groundsman’s armoury. A narrow footprint allows it to fit through most gateways and passageways to tackle hard to reach spraying areas.

With a 120-litre tank, the option of a 2.5m six nozzle or 3.5m eight nozzle three-section folding boom and the perfect combination of power, control and responsive handling, the Micro-Spray is suited to all types of sports grounds, golf courses and landscaping work. The comprehensive yet easy to use control box gives the operator more control over the sprayer with changeable motor direction to either walk behind or in front of the sprayer, 12 motor speeds, bout marker selection, a battery level indicator and optional hand lance.

Spray application rates, operating speed, and the pump pressure can be accurately and quickly controlled by the operator, as well as the adjustable boom height and independent shut-off nozzle bodies. All of these features come together to make a versatile sprayer that provides the same exceptional results time and time again regardless of where you’re working.

Other leading products on the Campey stand will be the Campey®  Uni-Scratch, UNIRAKE©, the Campey® SPEEDRESSER© and the Campey® LM3010 liquid transfer line marker.

The Uni-Scratch is ideal for the professional and effective maintenance of natural and synthetic grass surfaces. The machine has been developed to infill or refill when installing or looking after synthetic grass carpets. It can also be used to remove organic matter on natural grass hybrid carpet pitches when carrying out annual renovations. The Uni-Scratch moves on four supporting rollers, which are adjustable in height to allow the most appropriate working depth. The rotors can be equipped with springs or linear brushes in PPL, with rear linkage to tractors of at least 30hp.

The UNIRAKE© serves a similar purpose by removing organic matter. Still, users can adjust the severity of grooming to remove a varying amount of organic matter or simply stand the sward up to encourage growth. Altering the severity of grooming is quick and easy and can be done in no less than 30-seconds.

Line marking is made simple with the Campey® LM3010 liquid transfer marker. What sets this line marker apart from the rest is that it only marks the leaf/plant and not the soil. This means that when greening out the lines for re-marking, it is easy to remove existing colours and re-line with greater precision and less time.

It is a simple, durable and easy to operate liquid transfer line marker. Marking material is transferred from the 30ltr hopper to the 10cm wide marking wheel by a grooved rubber roller which allows marking up to post or flag. It has pneumatic tyres and an adjustable flow rate giving even and accurate lines. The tubular steel handles can also be adjusted for operator comfort.

Many professional sporting clubs in the UK and Europe have the line marker, such as the Salford Reds. In the United States, sports facilities, including the Philadelphia Union Soccer PPL Park stadium and the New York Mets, a professional baseball team at its Citi Field stadium in Queens, use it regularly.

Completing the Campey line-up at STMA 2022 is the Campey®  SPEEDRESSER©. The machine is available with 18m or 24m spreading widths and are designed to handle all topdressing material. The unique aspect of the SPEEDRESSER© is the four floatation tyres on a pivoting axle that massively minimise the risk of turf damage and compaction. This feature is especially important when working on a pre-existing surface but is equally important during renovations. The high work rate of the machine enables the spreading of dressings up to a depth of 2mm-75mm in one pass.

As always, the weeklong STMA event will provide a number of invaluable seminars, training opportunities and networking events. Throughout the week, Campey product specialists will be available to give advice on machinery and answer any turf related questions.

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Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series

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Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series: Kubota (UK) Ltd has taken the covers off a cost-sensitive, five-model M6-001 Utility series tractor range. As the successor to the MGX models, the M6-001 Utility series spans 104-143hp, and meets EU Stage V emissions thanks to an improved exhaust after-treatment package that contributes to a lower cost of ownership.

Like the MGX, it offers plenty of horsepower for local authorities, grounds maintenance contractors and racecourse groundsmen looking to increase productivity with larger implements, while delivering simplicity of operation and exceptional reliability.

Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series

Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series

Short wheelbase models include the M6-101U and M6-111U, and both use a 3.8-litre Kubota V3800 four cylinder engine. Maximum power outputs are 104hp and 111hp, with maximum torque figures of 346Nm and 379Nm respectively. These two models weigh 4.3 tonnes, and use a 2.54m wheelbase.

Long wheelbase M6-121U, M6-131U and M6-141U use Kubota’s 6.1-litre V6108 four cylinder engine. Power outputs are 123hp, 133hp and 143hp, with maximum torque figures of 503Nm, 544Nm and 586Nm respectively. These three larger models weigh 4.8 tonnes, and use a 2.68m wheelbase.

Engine technology on all models has seen an improvement in exhaust after-treatment, with DOC and DPF performance increased to deliver greater operational flexibility and lower cost of ownership. DPF regeneration can now be achieved at a much lower engine speed – typically 1,200rpm down from 2,000rpm – and using a much lower working temperature of just 50 degrees C. The latter makes regeneration much easier to achieve with light engine loads, lower noise levels and a reduced fuel burn.

The DPF cleaning interval for M6-001 Utility tractors is 8,000 hours for the 6.1 litre engine, and up to 6000 hours for the 3.8 litre engine, again contributing to lower operating costs. Engine oil change intervals are every 500 hours on all models.

All M6-001 Utility models get a 40kph semi-powershift transmission, which uses eight powershifts in three mechanical ranges to provide a 24×24 gearbox. The option of a creeper range increases the choice of ratios to 32×32. Transmission functionality includes auto-shifting in each range, and a sensitivity dial – the latter allows operators to adjust the responsiveness of gear changes to suit load on the tractor.

Operator comfort is provided by an air suspension seat in the same cab frame shared wth M6-002 and M7003 models, while front axle suspension is available as an option. A wide sunroof offers generous visibility for those looking to equip the M6-001 Utility with a loader, of which there are two variants – 3.7m or 4m lift height to the pin, and maximum lift capacities of 1,950kg or 2,200kg respectively.

A fixed displacement open centre hydraulic system provides 71 and 77 litres/min of oil flow respectively for short- and long-wheelbase models, while two mechanically operated spool valves are fitted as standard. Two additional spools are optional.

The Cat III rear linkage includes electronic linkage control with a five-tonne lift capacity on short wheelbase models and 6.1 tonnes on long wheelbase tractors. PTO equipment comprises a two-speed 540/1000 as standard, with a 540 Eco available as an option. All models can be equipped with an optional front linkage with 2.6 tonnes lift capacity, an optional 1,000rpm front pto, and the capability to run pto-powered equipment while stationary.

M6-001 Utility models also benefit from Kubota’s portal front axle with bevel gear drive, offering generous ground clearance and a 55-degree steering angle.

Kubota’s M6-001 Utility series is priced from £53,300 for the 104hp M6-101U, with the M6-141U costing £75,200. A range of Kubota Care warranty packages are available, offering up to five years and 5,000 hours of cover.

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EVO 165DT keeps S P Tree & Landscaping on track

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EVO 165DT keeps S P Tree & Landscaping on track: Wiltshire based S P Tree & Landscaping have recently taken delivery of a brand-new EVO 165DT woodchipper from GreenMech, to keep pace with growing demand from commercial customers.

After running a GreenMech SAFE-Trak unit for several years, Owner Steven Parker decided to invest in the 6” EVO 165DT to benefit from increased processing power – on par with the performance of their existing 8” road-tow machine!

EVO 165DT keeps S P Tree & Landscaping on track

EVO 165DT keeps S P Tree & Landscaping on track

With a client base ranging from domestic customers to commercial outfits, parish councils and building firms, S P Tree & Landscaping often require a tracked chipper for speed and ease of access. Steven explained, “I looked around at the tracked offerings from various manufacturers and was almost ready to commit to another brand when Ashley Stevens of GA Groundcare Ltd demoed the EVO 165DT for us. I was really impressed by the brute strength and performance of it, which, combined with the after-sales support we’ve always had from GA Groundcare Ltd, sealed the deal.”

The addition of twin-drive horizontally extending tracks makes the EVO 165DT the perfect ‘go-anywhere’ woodchipper. The track system provides ground clearance of 194mm and a tracking speed of 3.2kph to provide the operator with optimal manoeuvrability and stability when working on uneven ground. As with the other models in the GreenMech EVO series, the 165DT features a wide infeed chute, twin horizontal feed rollers and a heavy-duty flywheel which delivers unparalleled processing power for a machine in its category.

“The work that’s gone into the new EVO range is evident” Steven explains. “A lot of thought around the design and the accessibility of all the controls has made the EVO 165DT incredibly user-friendly – all of my team love using it. The position of the infeed controls in particular make a huge difference, and the ability to reverse bulky material out is great. Compared to our SAFE-Trak, it’s also smaller and lighter to navigate when on site.”

He adds, “Since we took delivery of this machine in September 2021, it’s processed everything we’ve needed it to and performance-wise, it’s been keeping up with our 8” woodchipper which is seriously impressive.”

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East Renfrewshire chooses Wiedenmann

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East Renfrewshire chooses Wiedenmann: Course Manager, Barry Nichol, at East Renfrewshire GC in Glasgow’s southside has been twenty years at the club; ten years as deputy course manager, and the last six months in the top job.

One of his key tasks moving into his new post was to identify an aerator to target historic deep-lying compaction on greens. The club, a notable moorland course, designed by James Braid, celebrates its centenary this year and has traditional clay push up greens, many plateau style.

East Renfrewshire chooses Wiedenmann

East Renfrewshire chooses Wiedenmann

“Most have an ash layer about ten inches (24 cm) down, so we needed something to hit and go through that to break compaction,” said Barry Nichol. “We’ve been redraining two or three every year, and you can see progress, but regular deep aeration is essential.”

After discussion with Rob Hogarth Regional Sales Manager, and Stuart Cameron, Area Demonstrator, from local dealer, Fairways GM, exclusive Wiedenmann UK dealer for Scotland, Barry Nichol opted for a new Terra Spike XP6, the deepest machine in the Wiedenmann UK fleet.

“You always get good advice from the GM team as many are former course managers and greenkeepers themselves. The ability to go to 14 -16 inches (35-40 cm) with wider tines was required.”

The XP6 arrived at the beginning of December, enough for several outings before Christmas, all using 20 mm diameter tines and around 5° of heave,

“Deep compaction layers need a bigger tine to break them up. It is great to shard through the compacted layers of the soil’s profile to allow air, water, and nutrients through, and while it would have suited us well to get more done before the year end, we made a good start.

“The XP reaches so far down, leaves a clean hole and does exactly the job we need. The 1.6 m width suits us as we have a few tight spots to turn.”

East Renfrewshire GC is set 500 feet above sea level and its distinctive moorland credentials ensure it is always busy.

“When you are talking greens, even in winter, we have to be mindful of disruption to the surface” continued Barry, “Tining up to three times in the off season will probably be enough. In the playing season, aeration must be discrete. We still need to break up compaction layers just below the surface to keep it loose for drainage, so we will only ever pencil tines to a depth of 120-150 mm, but you could have a particularly wet or dry summer, so the knack is to choose when to go if the conditions are right.”

Barry is supported by a team of six greenkeepers. Wiedenmann UK’s lead demonstrator, Andy Kerr, was on hand for installation and user training.

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Moving on up with the Razor Ultra

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Moving on up with the Razor Ultra: The Dennis Razor Ultra cylinder mower is helping the ambitious Rykneld Bowling Club to progress in the right direction.

Rykneld Bowling Club, based in Derbyshire, boasts an impressive history that stretches back to 1918.  It is an exciting and progressive club that promotes participation of the whole community in the sport of crown green bowls.

Moving on up with the Razor Ultra

Moving on up with the Razor Ultra

It is arguably one of the best clubs in the county and has its sights set even higher.

“As a club we are on the move upwards, and we need the very best equipment to ensure we have a fantastic green,” said committee member Malcolm Holden.

It is for this reason that Rykneld Bowling Club now boasts a brand-new Dennis Razor Ultra cylinder mower.

Superbly balanced and ideal for bowls greens and other fine turf surfaces, the Razor Ultra has an operating width of 560mm (22in) and an 11-blade cutting cylinder for a perfect finish.

An ultra-short wheelbase ensures easy manoeuvrability and excellent performance, even on undulating surfaces. The Dennis Razor Ultra also encompasses the simple ‘no tools required’ click height adjusters for quick and easy operation.

This unique mower has certainly made a difference according to Malcolm.

“We had a couple of old cylinder mowers, but they just could not do what the Razor Ultra does,” he said. “The main benefit is that it has a groomer on it which lifts up the grass before it cuts, and that is really important because the speed of the green is very high on the list of priorities for our top-class bowlers.

“We did look at other mowers, but we know a local greenkeeper from a club five miles away who has a Dennis Razor Ultra, and he was singing its praises. When Dennis Mowers came to do a demo, Howard, who is a groundsman here, thought it was his birthday!

“We’re all absolutely delighted – it is a fabulous piece of kit, and we use it three times a week during the season – Sunday, Tuesday and Friday.

“The Razor Ultra has helped us to get rid of a lot of the horizontal growing grass and the players have noticed a big improvement – the feedback we are getting is that the green is running better than it ever has.”

Aside from being impressed with the product, Malcolm was quick to praise the customer service he received.

“Dennis are absolutely superb,” he said. “We had the Razor Ultra on order and while we were waiting for it, our old mower stopped working, we panicked because we had a competition coming up. We spoke to Dennis, and they sent a loan machine out to us the very next day. It was fantastic customer service, and that goes a long way in my opinion.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Dennis on Twitter and Instagram @DennisMowers and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/DennisMowersUK You can also view the latest Dennis videos by visiting www.youtube.com/DennisMowers

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