Amazone claims its new ZG-TS trailed spreaders are capable of accurately spreading up to 650kg of fertiliser per minute and spreading widths of up to 54 metres.
Available with either 8,200 or 5,500 litre hoppers, the new twin-disc centrifugal spreaders feature Amazone’s high-tech automatic calibration system and integrated border spreading technology.
Amazone product manager Craig Hopkins says the new trailed models offer the same precision and throughput as the ZA-TS mounted series but with even greater capacity.
“With a maximum load of 9.8 tonnes and a top operating speed of 30 km/h, the ZG-TS 5500 and 8200 can easily cover 50 hectares an hour and cover more ground with each load,” he says.
Three weighing cells present on the spreaders detect any deviation between the desired application rate and the amount of fertiliser being discharged.
An on-board processer then automatically adjusts the electric metering shutters to ensure consistent delivery.
The two new models incorporate Amazone’s ‘soft ballistic’ system which ensures all components of the agitation, metering and spreading system are optimally matched to protect the integrity of fertiliser granules.
“This ensures the precise and even distribution of valuable nutrients across the crop,” Hopkins says.
“Field trials have shown this technology can increase yield by 15 per cent compared to conventional spreaders.”
Last year, the Australian Fertiliser Services Association assessed the performance of the Amazone ZA-TS 4200, a mounted model that features the same running gear as the ZG-TS models.
According to Hopkins, the tests have found the TS spreading system accurately delivering 100 kg/ha of urea between 34 and 45 metres, depending on the machine settings and operating speed.
“Productivity aside, spreading accuracy has an important role to play in quality assurance environment sustainability and risk management,” he says.
Two electrically driven star agitators on the ZG-TS models ensure an even flow of fertiliser from the hopper.
Each agitator switches off automatically if its corresponding shutter slide is closed and automatically reverses to clear blockages if necessary,
Amazone adds the two independently controlled shutter slides make sure the exact amount of fertiliser is delivered to the twin centrifugal spreading discs.
The spreading distance – 18m to 21m, 24m to 36m and 32m to 54m – is determined by the three different vanes sizes, which can be easily changed.
“In effect, this delivery system changes where the material is dropped on to the spreading discs, which in turn, regulates the spreading width and lateral distribution,” Hopkins adds.
The Amazone ZG-TS models are available in two configurations, which are Profis (automatic calibration) and Profis Hydro (automatic calibration and hydraulic drive)
“We recommend the Hydro system because it ensures the spreading discs are always operating at the desired speed, regardless of engine revs or forward speed,” Hopkins says.
“Secondly, it permits the use of the optional GPS switch partial-width selection control technology, which prevents overlapping in the headlands of large or odd-shaped paddocks.”
A new ISOBUS-compatible AMATRON 3 terminal, which comes standard on the ZG-TS models offers the optional GPS-Track guidance and GPS-Maps variable application systems.
“I doubt if there’s an easier spreader to use on the market,” Hopkins says.
“You simply enter the desired spreading rate and drive off.”
All models feature a robust chassis design with an adjustable, suspended drawbar and twin-line air or hydraulic braking system.
The oversized tyres, mounted on 1.80 to 3m track widths, achieve high ground clearance with minimal compaction.
“All components are made from high quality stainless steel, while the maintenance-free oil bath gearbox has an integrated overload safety device,” Hopkins says.
Other smart features, according to Amazone, include a hydraulic roll-up cover, mud guards, parking jack, foldable ladder and safety signage.
The Amazone brand is distributed by Claas Harvest Centre in Australasia with dealerships across Australia and New Zealand.
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