Tag Archive for: Hunter

Hunter Grinders to Showcase Precision Grinding Solutions at BTME

/in , , /by

Hunter Grinders to Showcase Precision Grinding Solutions at BTME: Hunter Grinders, part of the Howardson Group, will be exhibiting at BTME 2026, taking place at the Harrogate Convention Centre, where visitors can see its professional grinding solutions on stand 217.

Designed for modern turf equipment workshops, the Hunter Grinders range is engineered to deliver accuracy, consistency and repeatable results, supporting efficient servicing of cutting units to exact manufacturer standards.

Hunter Grinders to Showcase Precision Grinding Solutions at BTME

Hunter Grinders to Showcase Precision Grinding Solutions at BTME

Jupiter ‘All-in-One’ Grinder

Taking centre stage on the stand is the Jupiter, a fully automatic relief and spin grinder built for professional workshop environments. Constructed on a solid cast bed and supported by heavy-duty linear rails, the machine provides smooth, stable movement throughout every grinding cycle, delivering precise and repeatable results.

Automated traverse, indexing and in-feed functions allow the Jupiter to operate independently, improving efficiency while freeing operators to focus on other workshop tasks.

For BTME 2026, the Jupiter ATI is presented with key enhancements to improve handling and control. The addition of a tail-lift option simplifies loading and unloading of machines up to 300 kg, while upgraded servo drives provide smoother, more precise operation across grinding functions.

A liquid coolant system manages heat and dust for a cleaner, safer working environment. Fully programmable controls include automatic wheel-head docking and cycle countdown, while the machine can grind both the top and front faces of bottom blades and accommodate cylinders up to 1067 mm (42”). A 360-degree electric hoist option further supports safe and efficient handling.

Amazon Grinder – Efficient Bottom Blade Precision

Also on display at BTME 2026 is the Amazon grinder, offering a fast, accurate solution for bottom blade sharpening with a consistent, high-quality finish.

A variable-speed traverse motor allows precise control of material removal, while automatic in-feed on the front face ensures consistent pressure and repeatable results. The Amazon offers a 36” bottom blade capacity when using both grinding heads, extending to 42” when operating with a single grinding head. Automatic simultaneous grinding of both the front and top faces further improves workshop productivity.

An adjustable mounting system ensures the bottom blade remains parallel throughout the grinding process, supporting an accurate, even grind.

Visit Hunter Grinders on stand 217 at BTME 2026 to see how precision grinding solutions can improve workshop efficiency and cutting performance.

For further information or to arrange a no-obligation demonstration, contact Hunter Grinders on 01332 824 777 or visit www.huntergrinders.com.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

KAR UK and Hunter Bring Practical Solutions to BTME

/in , , /by

KAR UK and Hunter Bring Practical Solutions to BTME: Visitors to Stand 550 at BTME 2026 will be welcomed by KAR UK, joined by the expert team from Hunter Irrigation, for a showcase built around innovation, efficiency, and practical support for today’s greenkeepers and course managers. With an abundance of turf irrigation expertise in one place, the stand will be a must-visit for anyone responsible for maintaining healthy, high-performing golf surfaces.

This year, the spotlight will fall on two major areas of Hunter’s golf portfolio: the Pilot® Network Control System and the TTS-800 Series of golf rotors – widely recognised within the industry as the GT range.

KAR UK and Hunter Bring Practical Solutions to BTME

KAR UK and Hunter Bring Practical Solutions to BTME

TTS-800 / GT Series Rotors: Water Efficiency Meets Performance

Alongside Pilot, KAR UK and Hunter will also highlight the TTS-800 Series, commonly known in golf as the GT rotors. Engineered specifically for golf course performance, these rotors combine exceptional durability with some of the most precise, water-efficient irrigation available.

The GT range is built around Hunter’s signature Total-Top-Service (TTS) design, enabling every internal component to be accessed from above ground. This dramatically reduces maintenance time, eliminates unnecessary digging, and keeps surfaces playable and presentable.

From an irrigation standpoint, the rotors deliver uniform water distribution, impressive throw performance, and highly efficient nozzle options that help clubs achieve the same turf quality with less water applied. For courses upgrading older or inconsistent irrigation heads, GT rotors offer a step change in both reliability and water savings.

Smarter Control with Hunter Pilot

Hunter’s Pilot Network Control System is built around the idea that the best irrigation technology should make life easier, not more complicated. From installation to day-to-day operation, the Pilot system is designed to provide maximum reliability with minimum fuss.

Courses can choose between conventional or integrated hub configurations, allowing the system to be built around existing infrastructure or deployed as a completely modern, centralised control network. Pilot hardware can work independently or be linked seamlessly into Pilot Central Control Software, giving clubs the flexibility to upgrade at their own pace.

The software itself has become one of the standout features of the system. Pilot Central Control balances irrigation run times with both water and electrical supply to ensure the most efficient cycles possible – an increasingly important capability as golf clubs look to reduce costs, conserve water, and remain environmentally responsible. For periods when precision takes priority over pump-station efficiency, such as grow-in or overseeding, Pilot’s controller-based programming provides simple, localised control.

The latest addition to the system, the Pilot Navigator mobile app, takes flexibility even further. Putting the full power of Pilot Command Centre Software directly into a smartphone, the app allows greenkeepers to make quick adjustments, trigger irrigation, and manage key settings remotely and intuitively. With customisable features and real-time visibility, it enables users to save time, conserve water, and stay fully in control of their course – whether they’re on-site, on the move, or responding to changing conditions across the site.

Whether you’re planning a system upgrade, replacing components, or simply looking for better ways to manage water, the combined expertise of KAR UK and Hunter Irrigation will ensure every visitor receives clear, practical advice tailored to their course.

For greenkeepers and course managers facing the growing pressure of water management and system efficiency, there’s no better place at BTME 2026 to explore smarter, more sustainable irrigation solutions. Visit Stand 550 to see the technology first-hand, meet the specialists, and discover how Hunter’s golf-specific innovations can support your plans for the season ahead.

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

You can also follow KAR UK on X and Instagram @KARUK_LTD for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Hunter Showcases Precision and Performance at SALTEX

/in , , /by

Hunter Showcases Precision and Performance at SALTEX: Hunter Grinders, part of the Howardson Group, will be exhibiting at SALTEX 2025, taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 12-13th November 2025. Visitors can find the team on stand E123, to see why the Jupiter ATI ‘All in One’ Grinder remains the professional choice for consistent, accurate cylinder grinding.

Precision Engineered for Accuracy

Renowned for its build quality and repeatable results, the Jupiter ATI is a fully automatic relief and spin grinder that restores cutting units to exact manufacturer specifications. Its solid cast bed and heavy-duty linear rails ensure smooth, stable movement and precision, accurate to within 0.05 mm (2 thou).

Hunter Showcases Precision and Performance at SALTEX

Hunter Showcases Precision and Performance at SALTEX

Automated Efficiency

With automatic traverse, indexing and in-feed, the Jupiter ATI operates independently, allowing operators to focus on other workshop tasks. Every grind is consistent, accurate and repeatable.

Designed for Operator Safety and Comfort

A liquid coolant system manages heat and dust for a cleaner, safer workspace, while twin LED work lights provide excellent visibility throughout each grinding cycle.

Built for Versatility

Equipped with a 360-degree electric hoist and the ability to grind both the top and front faces of bottom blades, the Jupiter ATI handles a wide range of cylinder and bottom blade configurations with ease. Fully programmable spin and relief grinding modes, automatic wheel-head docking and cycle countdown simplify complex operations and reduce operator input.

Reliable. Repeatable. Ready.

Built to perform, the Jupiter ATI combines robust construction, hands-free indexing and full CE and H&S compliance, delivering a modern, service-ready solution for professional workshops.

Visit Hunter Grinders on stand E123 at SALTEX 2025 to experience the precision, reliability and service support that define the brand’s commitment to excellence.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC

/in , /by

Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC: Blackpool FC has seen major improvements to both its stadium and training ground facilities following the installation of a new Hunter irrigation system, supplied by KAR UK and installed by Arden Lea Irrigation.

Head Groundsman Paul Flynn, who has been with the club for nearly five years, explained how the Hunter products have transformed operations, saving time, improving turf quality, and supporting player performance.

Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC

Hunter Irrigation Delivers Turf Excellence for Blackpool FC

Before the installation, Paul and his team relied on standpipes and travelling sprinklers – a process that was time-consuming and inefficient.

“We were wasting 20 to 25 hours a week just watering pitches by hand,” Paul said. “I told the club they’d get that time back within a year if we invested in irrigation – and that’s exactly what has happened.”

The first phase began at the training ground, with irrigation now fully operational across the main pitches and the sports science area. At the stadium, work is ongoing, with Hunter I80-ON sprinklers already replacing older, underperforming units.

Blackpool’s system includes the Hunter ACC2 Controller with Centralus, the Hunter GT-885, and the Hunter I80-ON sprinklers.

The ACC2 Controller with Centralus allows Paul and his deputy to manage irrigation directly from their phones or via a roaming remote, giving them ultimate flexibility.

“We can press a button and water exactly where we want, whenever we want,” Paul explained. “It makes growing, training preparation, and recovery so simple. We’ve now got around 62 heads across the site, so we can literally water every blade of grass.”

The Hunter I80-ON heads, installed at Bloomfield Road Stadium, have already improved coverage and performance compared to the old system. The GT-885 sprinklers at the training ground provide strength, durability, and easy access for maintenance – crucial for a high-use facility.

The improvements in irrigation have gone beyond aesthetics, directly impacting player welfare and training quality.

“Before, some areas were rock hard, which contributed to calf and hamstring injuries,” said Paul. “Now we can keep surfaces consistent, which makes a huge difference for performance and safety.”

Managers have also benefitted, with the ability to prepare pitches to replicate match conditions.

“The current manager says the best thing is that the training pitches now resemble the stadium pitch,” Paul added. “It means we can mirror match situations and even put the sprinklers on during sessions to improve ball speed – something we could never do before.”

Paul credited both KAR UK and Arden Lea Irrigation for their expertise and support throughout the project.

“My relationship with Wes and Lee at KAR UK goes back years, and I know I can always rely on them,” he said. “Arden Lea are also brilliant – I just pick up the phone and they’re here the next day. Between the two of them, the whole process has been faultless.”

The old irrigation kit has even been donated to Blackpool Cricket Club, strengthening community ties and ensuring wider benefit from the project.

With the training ground fully upgraded and stadium improvements ongoing, Paul believes Hunter irrigation will continue to play a vital role in Blackpool FC’s future.

“The health of the pitches has never been better,” he said. “It’s more efficient, saves us time, and helps the players perform. Honestly, I can’t fault the system at all.”

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

You can also follow KAR UK on X and Instagram @KARUK_LTD for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

/in , /by

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact: Keith Porter, Grounds Manager at Leigh Sports Village in Greater Manchester, is celebrating his 18th year at the helm of one of the UK’s fastest-developing sporting venues – and with the installation of a new Hunter irrigation system supplied and supported by KAR UK, he’s now seeing the benefits of precision technology across every blade of grass.

The new system has delivered a game-changing level of control and consistency for Keith and his dedicated six-person grounds team. Installed by Irrigation Control as part of a major hybrid pitch redevelopment in June last year, the Hunter system includes GT-885 and I-80-ON sprinklers designed to deliver performance, reliability, total top serviceability, and full even coverage of the pitch. It is combined with the ACC2 controller and Centralus software.

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

“We’d seen the technology at the BTME event in Harrogate and knew it was a step up,” says Keith. “You can access the heads without digging up the pitch – which is massive on a hybrid surface – and the throw from the heads is brilliant. With the I-80s, even the central sprinklers reach right out to the touchline. We’ve now got 100% coverage, and that makes a huge difference.”

Previously, uneven watering created inconsistency in turf condition, with areas occasionally drying out and underperforming. The new system has eradicated that issue.

“With the old irrigation system, it was hit and miss – now it’s perfectly even. No dry patches, no burning off. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about performance and safety too. Even in windy conditions, the whole playing surface is getting what it needs. It’s transformed our matchday prep.”

Leigh Sports Village – home to rugby league club Leigh Leopards and Manchester United’s Women’s and Development teams – has experienced a steady rise in profile and popularity, with regular games, training sessions, and even film shoots becoming part of the busy schedule.

The small team manage far more than just the stadium pitch – the entire site includes additional grass and synthetic pitches, a leisure centre, hotel, supermarket, and even a college campus. Despite the workload, Keith credits the investment in technology and ongoing support as vital to keeping up with demand.

“We’re left to manage things ourselves, and we’ve always had the backing when we’ve made a case for investment,” he explains. “The irrigation system was another example of the council trusting us to choose the right tools for the job.”

Control and ease of use have also proven key benefits. With Hunter’s Centralus control system, the team can operate the irrigation from anywhere – even at home – via smartphone, handheld remote, or laptop.

“It’s really simple. Any of the lads can pick it up and use it,” Keith adds. “You can run individual heads or sections for spot treatments or liquid feeding. You’re not restricted to a one-size-fits-all cycle – it’s totally flexible. That saves water, time, and effort.”

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

Hunter Irrigation Makes an Instant Impact

KAR UK, the UK’s leading supplier of Hunter irrigation equipment, played a key role throughout the project. Their technical support and advice proved instrumental in the system’s successful integration.

“Lee Williams from KAR UK has been great,” says Keith. “He was involved right from the start and has always been on the end of the phone. Any advice we needed, he was there. It’s been a smooth process.”

With the stadium pitch now fully covered and performing better than ever, Keith is already looking at future upgrades. “Our external pitches are older systems, but as heads start to go, we’ll be replacing them with Hunter – it’s the way forward.”

As Leigh Sports Village continues its impressive rise, Keith’s team – and their irrigation – are keeping pace.

“With the Hunter system in place, we’ve got confidence in the coverage. It’s made a big difference,” Keith concludes.

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

You can also follow KAR UK on X and Instagram @KARUK_LTD for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.