New spreader tames the wind

AMAZONE’s new WindControl system automatically monitors and adjusts the spreading pattern to compensate for the effect of the wind on the real-time spreading pattern.

The new system is available for the company’s top-of-the-line ZA-TS mounted and ZG-TS trailed twin disc centrifugal spreaders.

CLAAS Harvest Centre General Manager – Product, Tim Needham, says even minor changes in wind speed and direction can have a significant impact on the distribution of valuable fertiliser. “Headwinds or tailwinds can stretch or compress the spreading pattern, while crosswinds can shift the pattern laterally,” he says.

“These changes can result in significant differences in application rates within the same tramline and from one tramline to the next. WindControl is a fully automatic system that effectively neutralises the effect of wind upon your fertiliser spreading operations, helping you to make the most of your application window.”

WindControl utilises a high-frequency wind sensor to record wind speed and direction. The job computer calibrates this data with ground speed, calculates new spreader settings and then makes these adjustments automatically. “If there is a crosswind, the disc speed on the side facing the wind is increased and the delivery system is rotated outwards,” Tim says. “At the same time, the speed of the downwind side is reduced and the delivery system rotated inwards. This automatically counteracts the wind effect and ensures accurate distribution.”

The spreader-mounted wind sensor is automatically extended when the spreading discs are actuated. It protrudes above the tractor cab to avoid any turbulence generated by the tractor. When the spreading discs are switched off, the mast retracts to its protected position between the tractor and the spreader.

The control terminal displays wind speed, direction and gustiness, in addition to all spreader settings.

“WindControl uses a ‘traffic light’ colour system to advise the operator to what extent the system is able to compensate for the effect of the wind,” Tim says. “If the wind is too strong or gusty, the system will issue a warning that the limit of control has been reached.”

WindControl complements AMAZONE’s ArgusTwin system, which uses 14 radar sensors to monitor the spread pattern of the left and right discs.