Farming Monthly National September 2016 | Page 21

| Potatoes Irrimec Elite range of Irrigators The Elite range of machines are designed with the professional grower in mind who demand reliable and easy-to-operate irrigation systems that require simple maintenance. Greencrop are delighted to announce that the first machines in the UK have performed very well during the 2016 season. he new Elite range of machines, currently consist of the Elite 730 and 735 offering a range of hose diameters, from 100mm to 140mm, and hose length options, up to 580m long. The intention is to offer longer hose lengths with the introduction of the new Elite 800 series for 2017. The attention to detail starts with each machine being steel shot blasted, then painted in epoxy anti-corrosive primer, with a final coat of oven baked polyurethane paint for a superb long lasting finish. Trolleys are hot galvanized. The drive system continues with the proven Irrimec design. The drum is driven from one side by a cut gear ring positioned on the outer diameter of the drum. Unlike a chain drive, the hose drum is driven by a low-torque gear drive, which is positive and low wearing. Drum bearings are now fitted with T www.farmingmonthly.co.uk an auto lube cartridge ensuring problem free reliability. The turbine drive retains Irrimec’s patented partial flow “Turbimec” system, interchangeable for flows of 10130mc/hr at low inlet pressure. For more durability during long demanding irrigation periods, the chassis’ are constructed of large steel frames using a 5mm thick box section. The hydraulic legs are 50% larger with built-in internal rams for improved weather resistance and are designed to exert a central push against the drum for added stability. All of the guards are now manufactured in steel for increased durability and to enhance the appearance of the machine. The gun lift frame is also 50% larger, pivoting higher on the machine for additional strength and reliable operation. The Elite is supplied with a full hydraulic system for operation of the jack, turntable and legs with the control levers now mounted on its own adjustable stand at the front of the machine. This can be adjusted to the right or left hand side of the drum, therefore when turning the drum into the work position you are always in the line of sight to position the trolley in the correct row, making the machine set up easier. The reinforced turntable gear and hose guide has not one but four metal bearing rollers guiding the hose onto the drum, aiding drum rewinding and improving hose durability. Gun trolleys are self-pivoting, have been made 50% stronger, are fitted with wheel weights and have a double support wheel for the hose. Machines are supplied as standard with the new ‘Dosicontrol’, a simple-to-use computer control system that follows a logical formula for setting rates and delaying start/stop times. These can also be controlled remotely by GSM system ‘Dosicontrol Pro’ for improved operator and management convenience. The machines are available with either a single or tandem axle chassis, with a large range of tyres. For further information please contact your nearest dealer or contact Howard Chantry on 01328 701992 or email [email protected] September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 21