Increased accuracy, faster settings and ease of use are claimed for the new electrically powered Monosem ValoTerra precision planter.
Monosem has offered fully electrically powered (FEP) planters since end 2017. One of the main differences with the ValoTerra is its 56v on-board power system. Electricity to the planter’s motors is supplied by a pto-powered 5.6kW generator (no batteries are needed).
The result of several years of R&D, the French manufacturer says the main development goal was not only to make the planter easier to adjust, but also ensure precise seed spacing, planting depth and singulation to always get a more uniform emergence. The newly developed and patented metering system on the ValoTerra plays a vital role. Described as an improved version of the Monoshox system, the result is claimed to work accurately at 2.0km/hr faster speeds.
Examples of the simplicity of use include switching between crops when only the seed disc needs changing. It is said to take less than a minute per row to change between crops.
Equipped with variable rate and section control, other new developments include the FertiSmart fertiliser dosage system. Using a single motor for each individual dosing unit, it is claimed to distribute a wide range of fertilisers (including bio pellets) even when working on slopes.
The MicroSmart micro-granulator works with one metering unit and two fall pipes per row, and the new Monosem Plus app allows users to control individual metering units via a mobile device.
Available in models from 6-12 rows (4.2m-6.0m), individual row hoppers hold 70 litres (160,000 maize seeds) and the pressure of the 450mm diameter double disc openers can be increased in three steps of 30kg. Combined with a reduced angle of attack, they minimise soil disturbance.
The ValoTerra will probably be at SIMA in Paris in November. A limited number of machines will be available in 2023.
