By controlling the moisture during the weighing up of the raw materials, it is possible to correctly control the protein content of the final pellet and guarantee superior product quality. (Image source: Hydronix)

Knowing and controlling the moisture content of your materials from the introduction of the raw materials to the packaging of the final product is key to maximising efficiency, optimising yield and producing a high-quality, consistent product

The perfect solution is to constantly measure the flowing materials’ moisture content and correct moisture variations in real-time. The use of online moisture measurement sensors enables the control system to automatically react to changes and adjust the process to achieve a continuous and precise moisture level in the material, whether for storage, further processing, or final packaging.

Why should you measure moisture?

1. Raw materials vary in moisture content, and this variation leads to weighing discrepancies.
2. Accurate control of the moisture during the drying process prevents under-drying and over-drying.

Where should you measure moisture?

Moisture control throughout the process allows the production of higher quality, balanced and more valuable feed:

• Drying for Storage at the outlet of a dryer
• Milling / Tempering at the inlet of the tempering system
• Pelleting / Conditioning during the conditioning process
• Drying for packaging at the outlet of a dryer

Online vs offline moisture measurement?

Measuring online in real-time offers significant benefits over offline measurements. Periodic offline sampling is time-consuming and subject to:

• Equipment measurement errors
• Process errors
• Sampling errors

Installing and integrating an online sensor to measure the moisture continuously gives a much better method for monitoring the material flow. 

Benefits

By controlling the moisture during the weighing up of the raw materials, it is possible to correctly control the protein content of the final pellet and guarantee superior product quality. There are also cost benefits of water control ranging from an increase in the yield from a raw material, a reduction in spoiled material and optimisation of the energy input into the processes.

Conclusion

Using a consistent blend of usable materials and maintaining a constant final moisture target saves energy and extends the time between dryer maintenance. Benefits also include producing a consistent feed with a repeatable and homogenous nutritional value and a reliable shelf life.

The Hydronix XT range of sensors use an industry-leading Digital Microwave Measurement Technique and have a proven track record in these types of applications throughout the world. In addition, the sensors are simple to install and require very little maintenance.

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BKT has analysed the main trends that will shape the future of agricultural tires, matching the expectations of leading tractor and farm machinery manufacturers. (Image source: BKT)

BKT, as a leading Off-Highway tire manufacturer is pursuing its goal of bringing to life high-performance tires that meet stringent application standards and sustainability criteria

Traditional farming techniques are being overtaken by more efficient and productive operations, partly thanks to the arrival of Agriculture 4.0 applications. These include precision farming, IoT sensors, crop monitoring drones, as well as an entire series of devices and technologies that allow for 360-degree process optimisation. A new scenario where sustainability is at the center of this transformation process. BKT has analysed the main trends that, according to the company, will shape the future of agricultural tires, matching the expectations of leading tractor and farm machinery manufacturers. 

Sustainability and environmentally sustainable materials 

There is a growing industry focus on biodegradable or recycled materials, making sustainability a priority for original equipment. As a response to this trend, tire manufacturers will increase their focus on the use of materials such as natural rubber or recycled compounds to reduce the environmental footprint. Also, the tire design will be conceived with due regard for improved fuel efficiency and thus to lower emissions.

Smart tires and IoT integration 

Next-generation tires will gradually integrate IoT sensors for real-time communication of pressure, wear, and performance data, also preventing maintenance interventions for reduced downtime. Moreover, the sensors will be able to provide relevant information on soil conditions, temperature, and load in view of optimising overall performance and farming yields.

Endurance and durability 

Increasing operational complexity requires ever stronger and more durable solutions. That is why compounds, tread design, and sidewalls will be optimised for an enhanced product life-cycle and increased product suitability for both traditional and modern practices.

Advanced manufacturing techniques 

On the production side, too, we will witness the advancement of cutting-edge techniques, such as 3D printing, which would greatly accelerate a tire’s time-to-market while increasing their customization, thus meeting the specific needs of individual operators in a targeted manner.

Customisation and adaptability 

It is quite likely that in the future we will experience increasing flexibility and modularity of tires, which would then be able to easily adjust tire features according to the season, type of application, and field conditions. Hybrid tires will also gain ground and be able to handle a wide range of agricultural tasks, leading to greater versatility.

Hence, the future of the tire industry, notably the premium tire industry, will therefore be increasingly influenced and determined by the ongoing advancement of technology and an increased focus on sustainability and crop protection. Future-oriented manufacturers like BKT, who make performance, durability, and the environment three main pillars of continuous improvement, will be emerging with a view to growth and their ability to meet the complex needs of modern manufacturers.

Westfalia Fruit’s sustainable dye extraction on display at Fruit Logistica 2025. (Image source: Westfalia Fruit)

Global leader in the avocado industry, Westfalia Fruit has partnered with Efficiency Technologies to develop the most recent development—an innovative technology that specialises in the extraction of a natural, sustainable dye from avocado stones

This marks a significant advancement in total crop utilisation. The process extracts perseorangin, a rare and sought-after natural pigment from avocado stones collected at Westfalia's UK facility. The pigment offers eight distinct shades ranging from light yellow to rich reddish-brown, creating new opportunities for sustainable colouring solutions across multiple industries. The specialised extraction method isolates perseorangin, which constitutes approximately 3% of the avocado stone, and processes it into a dried powder form, offering extended shelf life.

Besides the dye extraction, remaining materials from the avocado skins and stones are also processed into additional valuable products. For example, starches are directed to paper manufacture as a precursor to packaging production, while ground materials find applications in cosmetics as natural exfoliants, as alternatives to micro-plastics.

The natural dye extraction process represents a significant advancement in sustainable practices, particularly as industries increasingly seek alternatives to synthetic dyes. The powder format ensures stability and ease of use across various applications, while the range of the eight distinct natural shades offers versatility for different product requirements. This innovation comes at a time when consumer demand for natural, sustainable products continues to rise across fashion, beauty and packaging sectors.

The commercial potential and versatility of the natural dye have already been demonstrated through several high-profile applications. The company's integrated operations ensure efficient collection and processing of avocado stones and skins from multiple production sites, which will help to maximise the sustainable impact of the initiative and builds upon Westfalia's commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles.

Q4 2025 will witness the arrival of new PowerStar Series tractors. (Image source: CNH)

New Holland’s PowerStar Series tractors have always been synonymous with power, utility and comfort, with the next generation being no exception

This tractor series offers powerful utility along with sleek new styling outside, greater comfort inside and a wide array of productivity-enhancing features across all four PowerStar models—the 90, 100, 110 and 120. 

Adding power

Power is important for a utility tractor and, as the name implies, the PowerStar Series delivers. Underneath the new hood is a powerful, fuel-efficient FPT Industrial 3.6 l four-cylinder engine featured in all four models. This lineup complies with Stage V emissions standards, which reduces particulate matter by 40% compared to Tier 4B. Along with a 13 l DEF tank, these tractors utilise Compact HI-eSCR 2 technology, resulting in higher torque, an increase of up to five horsepower and greater efficiency. For maximum visibility and compact dimensions, which are critical during loader work, the Compact HI-eSCR 2 is neatly concealed under the tractor’s hood while a new U-shaped exhaust also has been incorporated. Combining this feature with a larger fuel tank and long 600-hour service intervals that maximize uptime, operators will find powerful operational advantages.

Greater utility 

While a 12x12 transmission with a column-mounted electronic power shuttle is available on the three largest models namely 100, 110 and 120), operators can gain an advantage in their day with the proven 24x24 Dual Command transmission available as an option on all four models. The Dual Command transmission features the same electronic power shuttle but provides a Hi-Lo speed in each of the four gears. For added convenience, the PowerClutch button that’s placed on the back of the handle lets operators shift the gearshift lever without having to use the clutch pedal. On 12x12 and 24x24 Dual Command transmission models, a new feature, Dynamic Start-Stop or 'brake-to-clutch,' is included to help reduce operator fatigue during jobs that require frequent stops, like round baling. When activated, operators will simply need to press the brake pedal to stop the tractor and then release it to start driving again.

Enhancing productivity

Another set of novel options designed specifically for the PowerStar Series are all-new, factory-installed LU Series front loaders. These loaders offer more lifting capacity, greater lifting height, faster cycle times, improved visibility, easier coupling and refined control. Among a number of interesting developments, a new joystick is also available on Dual Command models that is aimed at lifting productivity. This joystick provides control of more than just the loader, housing buttons to shuttle, shift between Hi and Lo and toggle between preset engine speeds. By enabling the ability to simultaneously lift and shuttle with the same hand during repetitive motions, operators can boost their efficiency.

Refined VisionView cab 

Along with a new air suspension seat, a new digital instrument cluster provides greater insight into operating parameters and settings. Directly overhead a new super-high visibility panel offers outstanding visibility when the loader is raised to full height, like when stacking bales. For unsurpassed ride smoothness, Comfort Ride cab suspension can be added to Dual Command models for a 25% reduction in shock loads that can reach the operator.

Q4 2025 will witness the arrival of new PowerStar Series tractors. A 12x12 PowerStar 120 is currently on display at the 2025 World Ag Expo Feb taking place from 11-13 February at the New Holland booth in Tulare, California. A 24x24 Dual Command PowerStar 120 is also on display at the 2025 National Farm Machinery Show from 12-15 February in Louisville, Kentucky.