High capacity spreaders take sideways approach
Suffolk-based Shelbourne Reynolds has introduced two new side-delivery high capacity manure spreaders.
The side-delivery models – both new additions to the Powerspread range – are designed to handle slurry and solid manures. The Powerspread Pro 3000 is the larger of the two new models and has a capacity of about 15 tonnes, with output in line with that expected from similar rear discharge spreaders.
The Pro 3000 is aimed primarily at the contractor and larger livestock farmer. The smaller Powerspread 2400 has a capacity of about 11 tonnes and is targeted at more average size livestock units.
Both models employ a large diameter horizontal auger to convey material to the centrally positioned rotor. This then powers it out to the right of the machine to create an even, 20m wide spread pattern.
The use of more vertical rather than sloping sides used in previous models, along with an agitator unit eliminates any tendency for material to bridge above the auger as the spreader empties.
Turnbing at 750rpm, the rotor has an upward rotation and uses the specially strengthened edge of the exit door as a shear bar; material is reduced in size as it leaves the machine and creates an even spread pattern. The door itself has a hydraulically operated slide so that application rates can be controlled from the tractor cab.
Aware that extraneous material such as lengths of wood and large stones, can find their way into a spreader and cause blockages, Shelbourne has built in a raft of protection and clearance systems for the two new spreaders.
For starters, the main drive from the PTO has a shear bolt protection and two further shear bolts provide over load protection for the rotor and auger drive – both of which employ simple chain and sprocket drive systems. Paddles are attached to the rotor by a single bolt and, as a result, when an obstacle is encountered, rotate backwards to prevent damage.
Should the system experience a blockage, access to the machine is by raising the exit door slide to its full extent and hydraulically lowering the rotor to below floor level so the maximum accessible area becomes available. A reverse drive facility is also fitted as standard enabling the operator to reverse the central feed auger in the event of a blockage.
For maintenance, a bank of greasing points is placed conveniently at the front of the spreader and supplies grease to all the main bearings. Chain tensioners ensure the two drive chains always run correctly.
Both the Pro 3000 and 2400 models require little power. Shelbourne Reynolds recommends a minimum of 120hp for the larger spreader and 100hp for the smaller 2400.
Running gear comprises large diameter tyres on a single axle with an option for tandem axles. Options extend to air brakes rather than hydraulic brakes. Weigh cells can be fitted if specified.