Amazone and its WindControl system are fighting the age-old spreading dilemma: wind
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The WindControl system is designed to automatically adjust lateral distribution according to wind speed and direction.
Built on Amazone’s recently introduced Argus Twin spreading pattern monitoring system which uses 14 radar sensors to monitor the spreading pattern of the left and right spreading discs, the WindControl ups the ante.
“This technology compensates for any change in spreading pattern due to variations in fertiliser quality during start-up, braking, travelling on slopes or if the spreading vanes are worn,” Claas Harvest Centre product manager – Amazone, Craig Hopkins says.
“It also operates during border spreading or section control, ensuring the most effective use of fertiliser and ease of operation.”
Where WindControl differs is with its high frequency wind sensor which monitors wind speed and direction and transfers this information to the machine’s electronic unit.
The job computer then calculates any additional settings and automatically adjusts the spreading pattern of each disc.
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“For side winds, the disc speed to the windward side is increased and the delivery system advanced,” Hopkins says. “At the same time, the disc speed on the downwind side is reduced and the delivery system decreased.
“An alarm is sent to the operator when the system is no longer able to compensate for heavy wind or frequent gusts.
“In effect, WindControl increases the amount of time operators can be in the field, knowing that spreading operations are still being carried out with optimum precision.”
The wind sensor is mounted to the spreader and automatically folds in or out when the spreading discs are switched on or off.
WindControl technology will be available as an option on all ZA-TS-mounted and ZG-TS-trailed spreaders from spring 2018 onwards.
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