Tag Archive for: Technology

Hybrid technology taken to the next level

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Hybrid technology taken to the next level: New for this year, the industry’s first and only fairway mower with a true hybrid drive system, the Toro Reelmaster 5010-H, has been given a comprehensive upgrade.

Toro is always listening to its customers, and it turns out there are quite a few improvements made to this revolutionary mower based on R&D and customer feedback, all with the intention to enhance performance and provide better machine control.

Hybrid technology taken to the next level

Hybrid technology taken to the next level

Jon Cole, divisional business manager for Toro’s UK distributor Reesink Turfcare, explains:

“The technology of the 5010-H is proven beyond doubt since its launch in 2015 with the hybrid elements of the engine design particularly impressing customers. Therefore, what I think many will be pleased to learn is that most of these advances relate to the hybrid technology.”

In brief, more electronic components have been added. Leading with the fact that the hydrostatic drive is now electronically controlled, and with this simple change, Toro has added its SmartPower system to automatically control mowing speed and optimise cutting performance.

In essence, what this technology does is monitor the engine’s RPM. Previously, the operator was responsible for controlling the machine’s speed when mowing long or wet grass or climbing a steep hill, now, the machine does it automatically. As the RPM drops, traction speed decreases until it recovers back to the desired speed and by maintaining optimal cylinder and blade speed a better and more consistent cut is produced.

The same technology also means that as speed decreases the traction pedal still moves an entire stroke giving increased resolution for tight turning in tight quarters. So, for customers mowing training grounds or a relatively flat golf course, they can slow down the engine speed to peak torque curve rather than peak of the horsepower curve.

It means the same results can be achieved with the engine 2600rpm on flat ground compared to 3000rpm, saving on fuel consumption, and lowering the noise level output.

With SmartPower also comes cruise control and this allows for a more consistent clip rate. Rather than relying on the operator’s foot to maintain a consistent speed the machine does that, as well as allowing maximum speed settings to be set. Whether the setting is at four or six miles an hour doesn’t affect quality, clip rate is not affected, and the same results will be achieved, it just helps with operator training and preferences.

There is so much more that’s been tweaked with this machine but the real benefits for customers as Jon sees it are: “These changes mean customers can focus on cutting, on achieving that fine mowing detail, following the clean-up edge of the fairway for example, rather than focusing on the speed at which they’re mowing. This is where everyone including members will see the difference, there’s more precision for better presentation.”

To discuss the greener option for the golf course, contact Reesink Turfcare on 01480 226800 or visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team

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Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) has announced that its research and development team has been strengthened by the appointment of Jack Taylor who joins as Turf Trials Technician.

Jack will be based at the Turf Science and Technology Centre at Great Dunmow in Essex. He will be assisting the research and development team – maintaining the trials site, carrying out scientific trials, collecting data, and helping to offer customers well-researched products combined with best-practice advice for their sites.

Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team

Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team

Jack has a background in the horticultural industry, including plant maintenance, propagation, and nursery management.  He will manage the OAS greenhouse, looking after a range of small-scale pot trials and analysing the data that is generated.

Jack has a passion for playing cricket as a wicketkeeper and coaches at a local level.

He comments, “I am excited to be working at Origin Amenity Solutions and I am looking forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to the team and developing my skills within the amenity research industry.”

The OAS Turf Science and Technology Centre operates at the leading edge of plant science and turf technology with a broad spectrum of products alongside integrated pest management and microbiology programmes.

At the state-of-the-art facility, Jack is joining a team of experienced agronomists, scientists, and turf specialists who combine cutting-edge research, expert knowledge, and advanced technology to develop and deliver the most effective turf management techniques.

From soil analysis and nutrient management to pest and disease control, OAS provide seasonal managed programmes designed to optimise turf health and maximise its aesthetic appeal.

OAS Research & Development Director, Geoff Fenn adds, “Our commitment to research and development sets us apart from the competition. We continuously invest in the latest equipment and techniques to stay at the forefront of turf science. I am delighted to welcome Jack to the team. In addition to his involvement with our research and consultation services, we offer training workshops to empower turf professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain and improve turf quality; Jack will be a core part of our delivery team.”

If you are interested in a career at Origin Amenity Solutions, please email recruitment@originukoperations.co.uk

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Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team

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Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) has announced the expansion of the Origin Turf Science and Technology Centre team and the promotion of one of its key people.

Angus Finlayson, who joined the Research & Development team in 2021 has been promoted to the Trials & Digital Platform Manager, splitting his time across 3 functions. Angus will be running research trials, collaborating on TurfKeeper’s digital advancements, and providing the software and hardware installation of CirrusPro™ within the OAS Irrigation team.

Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team

Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team

TurfKeeper is a web-based portal that gives turf industry professionals a fully integrated operations and management solution. The system is proving very popular with Turf and Business Managers alike as it provides complete control over staff management, task planning, machinery management, inventory control, chemical applications and budgeting.

Angus comments, “I am very excited to take on the position of Trials and Digital Platform Manager. This position provides me with the opportunity to merge my passion for research and technology, enabling me to contribute to the advancement of innovation and provide support in the ongoing technological initiatives within the group.”

With the CirrusPro™ irrigation control system, a course’s irrigation is literally in the hands of the Greenkeeper.  Users can securely adjust their irrigation settings from their Smart device, enabling them to make real-time updates from the office, on the course or at home — wherever they are, on any device.

Peter Robin, OAS’ Irrigation Product Manager adds, “CirrusPro goes beyond the limitations of other irrigation management systems, and I am delighted that Angus will be spending some of his time strengthening our team by installing CirrusPro™ for our customers.”

The company now has a vacancy for a full time Turf Trials Technician to be a part of the innovative research programme at OAS, getting involved in scientific trial work covering all aspects of the amenity industry. The successful applicant will assist with the maintenance, management, observation and recording of the site and the trials.

OAS is a leading force in the UK amenity industry, supplying products and solutions to turf management, amenity, and landscaping professionals. Their inhouse R&D Technology Centre supports their teams and provides advice on product selection, programming, application, and effectiveness and back this up, with soil analysis, weed, pest and disease identification, and water management.

Research & Development Director at OAS Geoff Fenn comments, “I am delighted for Angus. He has a natural aptitude for trials work and is enthusiastic to utilise his unique skillset to benefit the rest of the business. The appointment of a Turf Trials Technician to assist our team will enable him to develop and progress this for the benefit of OAS.”

For full details of this position or to apply please email a covering letter and your CV to recruitment@originukoperations.co.uk

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Deere dealers explore technology advances

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Deere dealers explore technology advances: More than 50 John Deere dealers have been given advanced training on how greenkeepers can make the most of the latest technological innovations developed by the company.

Held at Golfpark Kurpfalz – a renowned German complex largely maintained using John Deere machinery – the event saw representatives from across Deere’s European network of dealers trained by experts from across the golf and turf division.

Deere dealers explore technology advances

Deere dealers explore technology advances

Chris Meacock, Division Sales Manager for Golf and Turf, said: “Our innovation pipeline looks to improve every aspect of a machine’s performance and that covers many facets of a product.

“What’s changing fast is the opportunity to use technology and data to make the process of using a John Deere product more efficient and productive for our customers.

“This event was a chance for the dealer network to see all our precision turf technology in action, working together to demonstrate the advantages of GPS-driven accuracy.”

The training centred on the direct impact precision applications can have on reducing inputs while increasing accuracy and productivity through efficiency gains.

Dealers were shown how mowers and compact tractors equipped with Deere’s satellite-steering AutoTrac technology can reduce overlaps and fuel consumption. HD200 Progator sprayers were demonstrating their ability to place fertilisers and herbicides in exactly the right place, avoiding spraying non-target areas and wastage.

The advantages of accurately mapping a course’s tees, greens, fairways, bunkers and paths was presented using Starfire GPS receivers and dealers were given further training in how the data produced could be accessed and tailored for course managers using the John Deere Operations Center.

Sessions were also run on how OnLink – the cloud-based golf course management software acquired by John Deere in 2019 – automatically synchronises any machine and operator working anywhere on the course, allowing course managers to remotely create and assign tasks and meticulously manage equipment and labour costs.

“This training sets up our dealer network to be able to work even closer with golf courses who are looking to take their maintenance and management to the next level,” Chris added.

CROSSHEAD: Satellite-steering with AutoTrac

One of John Deere’s key strengths is its ability to adapt technology from other areas of its global business and implement it in professional groundscare.

GPS steering in agriculture has been hugely popular for over 15 years, but its application on golf courses and sports pitches is now starting to develop.

The John Deere AutoTrac system used on fairway mowers and compact tractors has the potential to deliver huge benefits.

Assisted steering leads to less operator stress and reduced overlaps or gaps, which positively impacts fuel consumption and productivity.

Lazer-straight lines and cut patterns are also easier to achieve by removing operator inconsistencies, even in low-visibility conditions.

“Boundaries and guidance lines can be stored in the John Deere Operations Center too, allowing the next operator to follow the same pattern,” Chris adds.

CROSSHEAD: Spraying with more accuracy

The cost of protecting turf from pests and diseases, and nurturing it with sufficient fertiliser, is a significant cost for golf courses.

Clubs are also under increasing pressure to ensure that chemical applications do not have any detrimental impact on the environment.

It’s been 20 years since John Deere launched its HD200 sprayer, which works in tandem with a Progator utility vehicle, but its relevance to today’s turfcare profession has never been greater.

Equipped with a Starfire receiver the machine has the ability to automatically turn on or shut off individual sprayer nozzles across the boom according to its position on the course – spraying around watercourses or the fringe of a green, for example.

Accuracy can be measured down to 2.5cm.

CROSSHEAD: Remote management with OnLink

OnLink technology delivers two clever modules; OnEquip which provides a real-time feed on the machines activity, such as run time, servicing intervals and idle periods, while OnLabor schedules work and assigns it to members of the team.

OnLink connects to machines to the Operations Center so data gathered can be used to plan and improve operation efficiency – each machine’s working hours can be balanced across its life cycle to reduce the cost of ownership. Mowing patterns, reducing the time required to complete work, can also be managed.

Alerts flag when maintenance is required along with owners setting geofences and curfews to stop the machine working outside of set locations or hours, increasing its security profile.

In the future the app-based OnLink hub will offer the possibility to plan for weather conditions, track the speed of greens and monitor soil moisture while also creating accurate budget forecasts.

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Hydrogen technology set for international debut

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Hydrogen technology set for international debut: JCB is set to showcase its super-efficient hydrogen combustion technology on the international stage for the first time ever with a debut in North America.

The wraps will come off JCB’s brand new hydrogen combustion engine – the company’s zero-carbon emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment – at the Conexpo 2023 show in Las Vegas as part of the International Fluid Power Exposition (IFPE).

Hydrogen technology set for international debut

Hydrogen technology set for international debut

JCB Chairman Lord Bamford is leading the project to develop JCB’s hydrogen technology. He said: “The JCB engineering team has made enormous strides in a short space of time to develop a hydrogen internal combustion engine and it already powers a JCB prototype backhoe loader and a Loadall telescopic hander. As the first construction equipment company to develop a fully working combustion engine fuelled by hydrogen, I’m delighted we are now able to present this technology on the international stage.”

Leading the way in environmental, social and governance (ESG) for the construction equipment sector, JCB has been responsible for a series of industry innovations on its ‘Road to Zero’.

JCB developed the world’s first battery-electric mini excavator and has been at the forefront of electric technology development to meet customers’ demands for zero-carbon products with its E-TECH range. Today JCB has the largest electric line-up available in the construction industry and the company’s expertise in this sector will also be on show at the exhibition.

JCB’s commitment to reducing emissions goes back almost 25 years and its latest diesel engines have already delivered a 97% reduction in NOx emissions since 1999 and a 98% reduction in particulates. Today JCB’s diesel-powered machines also emit 50% less CO2 compared with those manufactured in 2010. JCB’s clean diesel engine technology will also be showcased on the stand in Las Vegas.

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ICL introduces revolutionary biodegradable CRF technology

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ICL introduces revolutionary biodegradable CRF technology: ICL introduces a revolutionary biodegradable coating technology for its controlled release fertilisers (CRF) in the turf market: eqo.s® technology.

The new coating for nitrogen is compliant with future (EU) fertiliser regulations, helping turf managers to improve their nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and will provide a solution for future sustainable turf management programmes.

ICL introduces revolutionary biodegradable CRF technology

ICL introduces revolutionary biodegradable CRF technology

With its patented eqo.s release technology, ICL takes the lead in providing a fully biodegradable coating that breaks down faster than existing coating technologies. The innovation will be introduced in ICL’s CRF portfolio for the turf segment, starting with the premium ranges Sierrablen and Sierrablen Plus.

In order to meet expected market demand, ICL has invested $20 million in a new production line for eqo.s release technology at its Heerlen facility in the Netherlands.

CRFs with eqo.s technology ensure optimal turf performance. The innovation is thoroughly tested in the field and has proven to be as reliable as current coatings, thus maintaining the high quality you can expect from ICL products. eqo.s release technology shows consistent and predictable nutrient release patterns while also limiting environmental impact by reducing nutrient losses and by increasing the NUE. After all nutrients are released, the coating degrades faster than ever before.

What turf professionals need to know

CRF products with eqo.s technology have the same advantages for turf professionals as current coating technologies as they improve the NUE and nutrient uptake by the plant. In addition:

  • Field trials with s prove similar, significant reduction in nitrogen leaching, volatilisation and denitrification.
  • s shows improved growth and quality with reduced fertiliser inputs, as fewer applications are required versus conventional fertilisers.
  • s shows the same consistent, reliable nutrient release for optimal growth.

Our CRF products are of the highest possible quality, and the technology we introduce today, eqo.s, works similar to the previous coating technologies, but with some key improvements”, confirms Dr Andy Owen, ICL lnternational Technical Manager Turf & Landscape. “The application rates and high quality results will remain, and even the look of the product is comparable. It is good news for turf managers and greenkeepers as their CRF products will give the same high performance as before. What makes it revolutionary is that the fully biodegradable eqo.s coating breaks down quicker and is completely compliant with future fertiliser regulations.”

Spreading the eqo.s revolution

Though eqo.s technology will first be introduced into ICL’s premium CRF ranges of Sierrablen and Sierrablen Plus in 2023, ICL is confident that by, mid-2026, when the new biodegradability requirements will take effect on the EU market, the company will be able to provide fast biodegradable coatings for all its CRFs in the turf and landscape market.

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-sf.co.uk or www.icl-sf.ie if you are in Ireland.

For more news and insightful views, you can follow ICL on Twitter @ICL_Turf

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New Toro technology at BTME

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New Toro technology at BTME: New machinery from Toro, the next big thing for sustainable machinery cleaning and a wealth of innovative technology to make the job of turfcare and ground management professionals easier from Reesink UK will be at BTME 2023.

New machinery from Toro is always a big draw and this year there are two machines debuting – the new Toro ProCore 648s and Toro Workman UTX 4×4.

New Toro technology at BTME

New Toro technology at BTME

The Toro ProCore 648s builds on the greenkeeper favourite – the ProCore 648, introducing even more features to the time-tested machine that changed the way customers aerate. With 10 new patents, the technology in this machine more than warrants the s in its name which stands for superior.

Now, with all the primary controls at the operator’s fingertips, this machine can be operated single-handedly. Hole spacing and true tine depth can be set and saved in the InfoCentre and there’s a broader range of 5mm (0.25 inches) for the ultimate control. Of course, there are plenty more features and benefits, visit stand 622 and speak to a Reesink representative to hear all about them.

The next new entry from Toro is the Workman UTX 4×4. This robust four-wheel drive, full-sized utility vehicle can handle curbs, inclines, hillsides, slopes and drops and all weathers. It has a high ground clearing (25.4cm/10ins), a towing capacity of up to 2000lbs and 25 percent more cargo capacity than that of others in its class.

It’s road-ready and comes with a proprietary speed control system to guarantee the right speed and power for the job at hand, meaning customers can choose between lower RPMs for lower fuel consumption and sound in sensitive areas, or higher RPMs for more power to haul a heavier load up hills and inclines.

Also on stand will be an example of Toro’s sustainable machinery options: the electric Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 riding mower, Greensmaster eFlex 1021 pedestrian mower and Workman GTXe utility vehicle.

The Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 is the industry’s first lithium-ion battery powered ride-on greensmower. As well as being whisper quiet allowing for earlier start times, the eTriFlex 3370 avoids emissions, pollution and damaging hydraulic leaks. While the all-electric Greensmaster eFlex 1021 takes electrical efficiency to a new level mowing 35,000sqft on a single charge. And with Flex suspension, it hugs the contours for that iconic Toro cut. Meanwhile, the lithium-ion battery-powered Workman GTX-L with hundreds of configurable options that include front and rear attachments, a flat bed and four-seat option, to name but a few.

Carrying on the sustainability theme, Reesink will have product from their UK Golf cleaning and sustainability partner Bio-Circle. On the stand will be Bio-Circle’s new EKO Natural Cleaning System and also GT Maxi, the parts cleaner that requires no water and eliminates pollutant runoff into the water system.

Further technology comes in the shape of the Toro myTurf Pro app, that allows parts to be ordered, service activities to be scheduled and utilisation data to be tracked in real-time.

Finishing off the line up from Reesink Hydro-Scapes are the most advanced central control irrigation system, controllers, sprinklers and soil systems from Toro, water aerators for the cleanest, healthiest water quality from Otterbine, the simple but effective 2-wire controller from SRC and the highest quality water pumping systems from Franklin’s Pumps, whatever the water requirement a solution can be found on stand 622.

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New FG 100 flow sensor technology

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New FG 100 flow sensor technology: As droughts and water usage restrictions look set to become more frequent, new ways of saving water and using it more efficiently are being seriously considered by property owners and contractors.

Rain Bird Flow Sensor technology is designed to monitor irrigation systems and identify any emerging problems. Leaks or line breaks, typically caused by root intrusion, groundworks or vehicles could go unnoticed without flow sensors and result in damage to property, flooded landscapes and higher water bills.

New FG 100 flow sensor technology

New FG 100 flow sensor technology

The latest addition to Rain Bird’s range is the new FG100 Flow Sensor which is designed for residential or smaller commercial installations. It provides year round protection for the investment in an irrigation system by monitoring for high or low flow and instantly identifying when there is a leak or line break.

Information is fed back to a linked Rain Bird ESP-ME3 controller that supports flow monitoring and  remedial action can be undertaken immediately. When paired with Rain Bird’s Mobile App for iPhone or Android, which gives the user full control over flow settings, this can be conveniently carried out from any location.

The FG 100 is an up-front, low cost investment and as a simple add-on is fast and easy to install using standard irrigation wire. Its design includes a paddle wheel that sits in ceramic bearings and ensures durability. It is winter ready and does not need to be removed during the annual shutdown when using air to push water out of the system.

For more information on FG 100 models and operating specifications, contact Peter Longman, Rain Bird Europe, plongman@rainbird.eu  www.rainbird.eu

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Kress delivers ground-breaking technology

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Kress delivers ground-breaking technology: A game-changer in every way, Kress is leading the charge with a breakthrough innovation in battery-powered technology, built to deliver the performance and power of petrol. Come and be among the first to see the future of green gardening at SALTEX.

For decades, petrol-powered gardening and landscape equipment has been a reliable choice for commercial use, due to most battery-powered equipment being incapable of matching or surpassing the benefits of their petrol counterparts. This is coupled with the fact that innovation in battery technology has remained slow in meeting the dynamic and ever-growing demands of professional gardeners.

Kress delivers ground-breaking technology

Kress delivers ground-breaking technology

Gardening and landscape professionals have tended to veer away from battery-powered equipment due to excessive charging time before continued use, the high expense associated with the limited lifecycle, and unreliable performance quality.

Despite growing concerns that the air and noise pollution associated with petrol-powered equipment is having a severe impact on the environment, professionals have been forced to pick an option that provides economical advantage in terms of power and uninterrupted operation.

Tackling the current limitations of battery head-on, with a ground-breaking opportunity, Kress is taking the transformation from petrol to battery to the next level, creating a stronger, faster, quieter, more affordable option, that is specifically designed to meet the demanding needs of commercial landscapers and is set to drive battery-power technology forward to a brighter, more efficient future.

The new commercial Kress 8-minute Cybersystem™ battery platform has been engineered to have the fastest re-charge of any commercial battery system available, has twice the power output of standard lithium-ion batteries and has been developed with heavy-duty use in mind. It is battery-power as we have never seen it before.

With a petrol-free future on the horizon, and soaring prices in the UK, the latest evolution in Kress’ battery-powered technology is a remarkable, timely development for gardening and lawncare professionals, radical new technology that can help protect their planet and pocket, without compromising on performance.

“Everyone is waiting for a change in professional gardening and landscaping equipment, petrol will soon have to be replaced and, for that reason, Kress has come up with a powerful solution, built for a future-focused industry.” says Don Gao, Chairman and CEO of Positec Group. “The future must rely on energy storage, energy distribution and an integrated system. It’s time for an energy system evolution – the new Kress system can fulfil that need.”

As a part of the well-stablished Positec family of brands, Kress is recognised for its superior German engineering that has been synonymous with reliability, quality, and industry leading standards for over 50 years.

This new line of Kress commercial-grade outdoor power equipment, powered by its exclusive cordless battery technology, is a revolutionary development and highlights the commitment towards a future that will forever eliminate the need for petrol-powered equipment.

Kress battery technology

  • The new commercial Kress 8-minute Cybersystem™ battery platform was engineered and designed specifically to meet the demanding needs of commercial landscapers. The system features both 4Ah and 11Ah battery packs with the ability to recharge each 60v battery pack to 100% charge in only 8 minutes, or 80% charge in 5 minutes – the fastest re-charge of any commercial battery system available.
  • Due to its proprietary battery cell technology, each 60v Cyberpack battery is capable of producing up to twice the power output of standard lithium-ion batteries. The added power output allows Kress outdoor power equipment to meet or exceed the same performance as most commercial petrol machines but with less noise and zero harmful emissions.
  • In addition, the Kress Cyberpack battery can be re-charged thousands of times – up to 10 times more than standard lithium-ion batteries.
  • The extended battery life supports multiple re-charges per day and greatly reduces the cost of replacement battery packs over the life of the equipment.
  • The Kress 8-minute™ Cybersystem™ is the first and only cordless battery power supply that will allow commercial landscapers to finally replace their expensive petrol equipment without sacrificing performance, power or runtime.
  • The new Kress 8-minute Cybersystem™ battery platform will power a full line of Kress professional outdoor equipment that includes commercial-grade backpack and handheld blowers, grass trimmers, edgers, chainsaws, and hedge trimmers as well as heavy-duty walk-behind mowers.
  • Each Kress commercial-grade tool is designed and engineered for heavy-duty use with a high-efficiency brushless motor and state-of-the-art features and performance. There are no more excuses to keep operating noisy, high-cost petrol equipment or wasting time with cordless battery tools that won’t get the job done.

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John Deere technology improves accuracy and efficiency

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John Deere technology improves accuracy and efficiency: The 2022 Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year says the technology packed into his John Deere R962i has simplified applications without compromising on the size of the tank.  

Steve May, arable foreman at Fromant and Sanders in Kislingbury, Northamptonshire, has a 6,200-litre tank and 36m boom on his trailed machine, pulled by a 6215R AutoPowr.

John Deere technology improves accuracy and efficiency

John Deere technology improves accuracy and efficiency

The biggest trailed John Deere sprayer available at the time of purchase in 2019, Steve opted to stay loyal to the brand after being impressed with his previous model, the M740.

“The R-series sprayers are already high spec, so a lot of the features I needed came as standard,” he says. “This is our third John Deere sprayer, but this one was a big step up in terms of technology, size and width.”

Twin Select nozzles, one fixed and one quad rotating, means that Steve can alternate between them from the cab, cutting down on the manual changes.

He has been particularly impressed with the PowrSpray system, which boasts separate pumps for filling and spraying. “The filling system on this sprayer is just fantastic,” he says.

“The filling pump has a 1,200-litre/min capacity, so I can fill the tank in around five minutes,” he explains.

Setting how much water he wants on the screen, Steve can depend on the system to fill the sprayer on its own, and he has the option to use the ‘active pause’ function to slow the speed of filling while the chemicals are added.

Altogether Steve sprays 810ha, which is split between the home farm and contracted work and crops grown include wheat, barley, oats, oilseed rape and beans.

“The tractor and sprayer both being John Deere means everything is integrated really nicely, which makes my life easier,” he says.

“I use the tractor’s Greenstar RTK guidance to put the tramlines in, which means I can spray everything with autosteer,” Steve says.

Previously, Steve worked on SF1, meaning he had to correct the guidance lines as he worked. “Now they are perfect throughout the season,” he says.

The 6215R is fitted with 710/70 R42 tyres for the winter and 480/80 R46 rubber in the summer. The sprayer has 710/70 R38 spec for the winter and runs on 420/80 R46s in the summer.

Overall, Steve has been impressed with the R962i’s performance.

“The technology is very clever but on a simpler level it’s easily manoeuvrable for such a large implement, and the axle suspension smooths out the ride.”

Steve has been so impressed that the farm has already placed an order for John Deere’s new R975i which has a 7,500-litre tank and is expected to arrive on farm in time for 2023 spring spraying.

“It’s pretty much the same machine, it just has a bigger tank which will give us a bit more capacity, particularly in the autumn when we’re doing pre-emergence,” Steve says.

“We’re putting 200l per hectare on when we’re spraying pre-emergence herbicides so obviously the more liquid I can get in the tank, the further I can get around in a day.

“I think the new sprayer comes in somewhere around 90 acres per tank load, whereas our current model does 75 acres per tank load.”

Tank size is key because he needs the capacity to avoid having to make journeys back to base to refill.

Although there are a couple of satellite water tanks at his disposal, not having to rely on them so much will provide a significant time saving.

Steve fought off stiff competition to be named Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year, securing his win after impressing the judges in all three rounds.

“It’s not really about driving a tractor or sprayer – it’s about having the knowledge and ability to do the best job you can with what you’ve got,” he explains.

“The judges focus on how you set up your equipment, processes and paperwork to be as precise as possible, because this leads to efficiency, which in turn leads to environmental gains.

“Finding out I had won was fantastic.”

Steve is BASIS and FACTS qualified, and made the final six of the Syngenta-organised competition in 2018 but 2022 was the first time he has taken the top prize which includes a trophy and a trip to Agritechnica 2023.

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