How discs optimise slurry applications

Slurry spreading specialist Samson has introduced two new disc incorporators to get the best from organic fertilisers.

The CDf and CDx incorporators are designed to be used on different soil types – including light sand and heavy clay, or indeed stubble. Both ensure nutrients are placed where they are needed, close to the plant.

The CDf is ideal for light post-harvest work, with a working depth of 3-12cm and a width of 4.5-6 metres – making it ideal for stubble and cover crops. It uses 510mm notched discs, arranged in staggered rows to ensure soil penetration.

Vibrations

Rubber suspension minimises vibrations and depth control wheels and comb harrow ensure precise work, even in challenging conditions. The CDf can handle slurry flow rates of up to 6,000 litres/minute, making it efficient for large-scale applications.

The CDx is designed for heavier soils. It offers a working width of 8 metres and an adjustable depth of 3-12cm. Discs are mounted on double or triple arms, while T-profile rollers or bar rollers compact the soil, efficiently preparing the seedbed.

Robust

This robust model operates at speeds of up to 16km/h, with a slurry incorporation capacity of 70t/ha.

Foldable central discs facilitate transport while maintaining stability. Like the CDf, the CDx is equipped with a vertical distributor for precise slurry distribution and a side star disc for soil levelling, allowing immediate sowing after incorporation.

Incorporating organic fertilisers into the soil limits nutrient losses from volatilisation and leaching. As well as maximising nutrient uptake, this reduces ammonia emissions by up to 85%.

Samson says both incorporators combine high-performance fertiliser placement bekow the surface, optimising the use of organic fertilisers even near residential areas, while preparing the seedbed.

2025 launch set for 20-tonne rear discharge spreader from Hi-Spec

A 20-tonne capacity rear discharge manure spreader is being launched by Hi-Spec Engineering.

The new Xcel 2050 machine is a larger version of the current Xcel 1250. The new 20-tonne model features Hi-Spec’s patented chain and disc spreading system contained within a full-width deflector.

Compared to vertical beater bar spreaders, the shredding action of the rotor-mounted chains and Hardox steel flails means the Xcel can handle a wider range of manures.

Solid objects – which could damage a vertical beater – can pass through the machine, which features an angled side panel design. This widens towards the rear for greater capacity, while reducing the risk of bridging.

Available as an option on the top of each side is a 4-inch square plastic trim to protect the panels when loading. Heavy duty marine grade chains move the contents to the rear of the spreader with the flow rate controlled electronically.

Having passed through the flail rotor, the broken up manure falls onto the two gearbox driven spreading discs. Both discs have shear bolt protection and are fitted with two spreading vanes.

Spread width

For lighter, dry material such as chicken litter or pellets, six-vane discs are available as an option. Depending on material, the twin spinning discs give an even spread width of up to 24 metres.

The Xcel 2050 has a hydraulic drawbar and is fitted with a wide-angle PTO. To reduce compaction, it features a tandem steering axle fitted with 710/50 R26.5 tyres and air brakes.

The machine can be fitted with the ISOBUS compatible RDS Apollo spreader control system. Application rates are set and maintained using a colour touch screen terminal, which can store and export work records.

Weigh cells ensure the weight of manure in the spreader is constantly maintained. The speed of the heavy-duty chains is monitored and constantly adjusted to ensure a uniform application rate irrespective of forward speed.