CUSTOM-ENGINEERED BLOWERS HELP ACHIEVE EFFICIENT CROP PLANTING

Features of the SUMO Versadrill include adjustable soil-loosening legs for depths up to 300mm, which relieve soil compaction and aerate in a V-shape. This V-shape then, uniquely, has two rows of seed placed accurately via disc coulters (vertical blade to cut soil) along each side to give the crop the best possible chance to both germinate and grow to maturity with free roots. The company’s research has shown that there is no need to deep loosen earth for every seed row, helping to save fuel.

Seed is delivered to the disc coulters via a blower system. Initially seed is accurately weighed as it leaves the 2700 litre bulk hopper mounted on the Versadrill. It is then drawn down to pass through a venturi valve from where it is blown along a feeder pipe to a multi-leg distribution hub that delivers seed to each coulter via dedicated feed hoses.

Using this technique, different models of the Versadrill can plant from 16 to 48 rows simultaneously. Seeds that can be handled by the SUMO machines range in size from oilseed rape up to broad beans.

The blowers employed by SUMO are supplied by Air Control Industries of Axminster and are powered by an hydraulic motor driven by the Versadrill’s hydraulic systems instead of the normal electric motor. In addition to being able to supply the blowers as impeller and housing assemblies, ACI has provided with SUMO a consultancy service combined with the ability to build units to match different requirements to promote high overall operating efficiency. This in turn is complemented by the fact ACI is a British manufacturer and can guarantee a rapid response support service when required.

“ACI has been very responsive to all our needs”, said Chris Byass, Product Development Manager. “The blowers are sized accurately to each Versadrill model following an analysis of performance requirements so energy consumption is minimised. Also, because we are a British company we are keen to buy British, particularly when we are confident that the supplier offers a product and service superior to the competition.”