AMAZONE ZA-TS spreader named Machine of the Year
Published on 09 December 2015
AMAZONE ZA-TS spreader named Machine of the Year
The AMAZONE ZA-TS fertiliser spreader featuring new Argus Twin lateral distribution optimisation technology has been named 2016 Machine of the Year 2016 at leading European trade fair, Agritechnica.
The prestigious ‘Machine of the Year’ awards recognise agricultural innovations across 16 different categories and are presented at Agritechnica in Germany and SIMA in France in alternate years.
AMAZONE Product Manager, Craig Hopkins, says Argus Twin optimises the lateral distribution of fertiliser at both spreading discs. Eight radar sensors mounted above both the left and right hand discs monitor the spread pattern and then automatically adjusts the electric delivery system of each disc if any deviation from the settings is detected. Due to its rigid attachment without moving components, the system is extremely robust and completely maintenance-free.
“This technology compensates for any change in spreading pattern due to variations in fertiliser quality, during start-up, braking, travelling on slopes or if the spreading vanes are worn,” Craig says. “It also operates during border spreading or section control, ensuring the most effective use of fertiliser and ease of operation. Extensive research and field testing has shown this system to be extremely reliable, regardless of dust levels.”
Argus Twin can be utilised across the ZA-TS series, including mechanically-driven Tronic or hydraulically-driven Hydro configurations. Craig says the new feature complements a number of other automated technologies found on the ZA-TS, including automatic calibration and tilt sensors. “The operator simply enters the desired spreading rate and drives off,” Craig says. “The two weighing cells detect any deviation between the desired application rate and the amount being discharged. In addition, the on-board tilt sensor measures any deviation in the centre of gravity, both front to back and left to right. The processor then automatically adjusts the electric metering shutter slides to ensure an even, three-dimensional spreading pattern regardless of the terrain.”
ZA-TS spreaders can be operated using any ISOBUS-compatible terminal, including the AMAZONE AMATRON 3, CCI 100 or AMAPAD.
AMAZONE is Europe’s leading manufacturer of cultivation, spraying and spreading equipment.
