Twin row-crop wheels have been introduced for the Vervaet Quad 550 self-propelled slurry applicator by UK importer J Riley.
First used on the continent last year, the dual row-crop wheels are configured with a 75cm spacing which allows spreading to be carried out post-drilling and through young maize. This allows an additional dose of digestate to be spread on the growing maize and also extends the working season for contractors by an extra three to four weeks.
Leicestershire-based Prestons Agricultural Contractors is one of two UK contractors using dual row-crops this season. Here it is applying digestate to maize with a 24m Vogelsang dribble bar.
Rather than fitting single row crop wheels with add-on dual-wheels, the heavy-duty twin row-crops are welded solid, effectively creating a single wheel with a pan and rim each side of a strong tubular centre section. In common with the Quad’s conventional wheels, a variety of tyre sizes and options are available, although the most popular tyre is Michelin’s SprayBib VF 380.90R46.
“The Quad’s versatility is invaluable in allowing contractors and growers to prolong the spreading window and maximise their usage of digestate as a renewable and sustainable nutrient source,” explains Matt Carse, managing director at J Riley Beet Harvesters (UK).
“The dual row-crops make it possible to apply digestate with minimal crop damage when historically you couldn’t. In addition, two contractors have now removed the rear tankers from their Quad XL outfits to run solo through the crop. The tankers can be re-attached for working on stubble after harvest when maximum capacity is again the aim, making the Quad the most versatile and flexible machine on the market.”
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