From 2012, the CLAAS tractor family is set to be joined by an entirely new range. The new AXION 900 high-performance range of tractors, with four models from 280 to 400 hp, complements the already popular AXION 800 (180–260-hp) and XERION ranges (330–525-hp).
The first AXION 900 preproduction machines went into operation in early 2010. Since that time, the new tractor has been put through its paces in fields across Europe, in direct consultation with end users. Although the tractor is not yet available commercially, and is currently being given its final finishing touches, CLAAS nonetheless opted to unveil the preproduction model at SIMA.
Technology
New Corner Unit from Technical Systems
South Africa-based Technical Systems, a leading poultry and pig feeding systems manufacturer, has developed an innovative Corner Unit for hard wearing and trouble-free direction changes in the chain feeding system.
The 90 degree Corner Unit has a solid housing with a heat treated guide rail and self-lubricating synthetic bush, to ensure maintenance-free, smooth operation, even at high speeds, according to the company.
The flexible Fatiqless Auger model, launched recently, has proved itself in stringent oscillator tests and results over the last two years have been positive. This Auger is also treated with a surface oxidation resistant oil finish, and is available world-wide through network of warehouses.
“This is not the first time the company has shown its enterprising capabilities. With the addition of chromium, molybdenum and manganese to its base material it has changed the content of flat feeder chain to such an extent that it has set a standard for the industry. In addition, by conducting in-house the processes of heat treatment and wire flattening, product integrity and consistency can be maintained, and equipment manufactured according to specific needs,” said Alberto Louw Strategic Business Development Director, Technical Systems.
“Due to market demand, Technical Systems is also considering manufacturing longer lengths of auger (1 000m plus), the current maximum length being 150m. This will enable clients to cut costs by minimising off-cut waste, labour and freight charges. The company has also addressed environmental issues with the building better extractors and spray booths to reduce fume and gas toxicity and which also provide a more aesthetic paint finish,” Louw added.
A key factor in Technical Systems’ steady growth is its location. “We are well positioned for easy access to both hemispheres and with warehouse facilities in Brazil, Rotterdam, the US and China we virtually cover the globe. Technical Systems exports 96 per cent of its volumes to 42 countries on all seven continents.”
The company’s ability to manufacture both flat chain and auger is a notable advantage as it maximizes container space with the auger fitting neatly inside the chain. The company also supplies flattened wire to competitors overseas. Nearly half of its product is exported to Europe with South Africa amounting to only three per cent of the market.
The flexible Fatiqless Auger model, launched recently, has proved itself in stringent oscillator tests and results over the last two years have been positive. This Auger is also treated with a surface oxidation resistant oil finish, and is available world-wide through network of warehouses.
“This is not the first time the company has shown its enterprising capabilities. With the addition of chromium, molybdenum and manganese to its base material it has changed the content of flat feeder chain to such an extent that it has set a standard for the industry. In addition, by conducting in-house the processes of heat treatment and wire flattening, product integrity and consistency can be maintained, and equipment manufactured according to specific needs,” said Alberto Louw Strategic Business Development Director, Technical Systems.
“Due to market demand, Technical Systems is also considering manufacturing longer lengths of auger (1 000m plus), the current maximum length being 150m. This will enable clients to cut costs by minimising off-cut waste, labour and freight charges. The company has also addressed environmental issues with the building better extractors and spray booths to reduce fume and gas toxicity and which also provide a more aesthetic paint finish,” Louw added.
A key factor in Technical Systems’ steady growth is its location. “We are well positioned for easy access to both hemispheres and with warehouse facilities in Brazil, Rotterdam, the US and China we virtually cover the globe. Technical Systems exports 96 per cent of its volumes to 42 countries on all seven continents.”
The company’s ability to manufacture both flat chain and auger is a notable advantage as it maximizes container space with the auger fitting neatly inside the chain. The company also supplies flattened wire to competitors overseas. Nearly half of its product is exported to Europe with South Africa amounting to only three per cent of the market.
Plasson launches new Water on Demand system
Plasson, a leading manufacturer of poultry systems, recently launched Water on Demand (WOD) system designed to control and manage water pressure in all drinker lines installed at poultry houses, according to the birds’ changing demands during a 24-hour period and during the grow-out.
Agricultural mower safety manual upgraded
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) has extensively updated its industrial/agricultural mower safety manual– both the English only and Spanish/English versions. Types of equipment covered include rotary, folding wing rotary, flail, boom and sickle bar mowers as well as disc mowers, disc mower conditioners and self-propelled windrowers. (The AEM "disc mower" manual is now obsolete.)
The AEM Industrial/Agricultural Mower Safety Manual was developed under the direction of the association’s Industrial/Agricultural Mower Manufacturers Council. AEM safety manuals outline common sense "dos and donts" in clear language and an easy-to-follow format, and they are a convenient and cost-effective way to provide in-house safety training.
The manual covers current industry practice in machine design and construction as well as up-to-date industry safety best practices for equipment preparation, operation, maintenance and transport. Enhancements include an expanded "safe maintenance" section, with a new section discussing mower blade maintenance; expanded discussion of "mower thrown objects" and "slope operation"; and use of newer safety design features and enhanced operator protection systems.
The manual covers current industry practice in machine design and construction as well as up-to-date industry safety best practices for equipment preparation, operation, maintenance and transport. Enhancements include an expanded "safe maintenance" section, with a new section discussing mower blade maintenance; expanded discussion of "mower thrown objects" and "slope operation"; and use of newer safety design features and enhanced operator protection systems.
IonSense expands product line
IonSense, Inc. and M&M Consulting recently announced an agreement for the marketing and sales of M&M’s ASAP technology for open-air mass spectrometry, consolidating sales of two major open-air ionization methods through one distribution network. IonSense will provide the technical support, sales, and marketing for the ASAP as well as its DART product lines.
p>IonSense, Inc. and M&M Consulting recently announced an agreement for the marketing and sales of M&M’s ASAP technology for open-air mass spectrometry, consolidating sales of two major open-air ionization methods through one distribution network. IonSense will provide the technical support, sales, and marketing for the ASAP as well as its DART product lines.