Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of your auto-rate systems over ground drive systems?Firstly, our auto-rate systems are constantly active. Because the pump is hydraulically driven, courtesy of the tractor remotes, the entire system is in constant motion and as a consequence the product in the liquid tank is always being agitated. This is now a necessity as it is becoming common practice to introduce fungicides into the main batch mix and a double necessity due to the introduction of 'suspension' liquid fertilisers.
By contrast, a ground-drive system is only active when the wheel that drives the liquid pump actually turns. This usually only occurs when the entire seeding rig moves. Without machine inertia, product agitation can only be achieved via a second, designated pump.
A feature of our auto-rate control system is the ability to statically test for blockages or to flush the system by selecting the clean water purging function on the module fascia.
To achieve these same functions with a ground-drive system, you would require either an external liquid supply or having the machine in motion.
An auto-rate system enables the operator to change application rates 'on the go', from the tractor cabin.
Auto-rate systems are compatible with GPS and guidance systems and will complement the arrival of yield mapping.
There are examples of manufacturers marketing ground-drive systems with auto-rate controllers. One of the motives behind this configuration is that is then possible to have adequate agitation - however, once again the complete rig must be in motion for this to occur. Stop and everything stops!
Really, it is simply a fact that the auto-rate system provides the level of control necessary for precise application of liquid fertilisers!
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