Agri-Spread introduces supersized spreader

Agri-Spread has launched its new AS2000 series of spreaders, with its range topping AS2220 model with 22 cubic metres making an appearance at the Dowerin Field Days in August.

The AS2000 series features eight models in the range, with the four smaller models featuring a single axle. The four larger models up to the AS2220 are all twin-axle machines with a steerable rear axle except the AS2130, which offers the steerable axle as an option.

The Agri-Spread range of spreaders are distributed in Australia by WA-based Waringa Distribution.

Waringa National Sales Manager, Sam Abbott, said the AS2220 is one of the biggest spreaders on the market and came about due to the increasing size of paddocks.

According to Abbott, farmers and contractors wanted a larger capacity bin so they could spend more time in the paddock spreading and less time refilling the bin.

Customer demand also led to the adoption of a steerable axle for the larger spreaders, giving added flexibility in the paddock and making the machine easier to tow.

Agri-Spread, which is based in County Mayo in Ireland, has been receptive to input from customers as far as Australia and has responded well to customer suggestions, Abbott added.

“We work very closely with the manufacturer,” he said.

The AS2000 series has optional section control that uses independent conveyors and spinners to give a more precise distribution of product. The conveyors are controlled by hydraulics that are monitored via an onboard GPS system.

The independent variable-speed conveyor allows operators to change the distribution rate on either side in response to optimum width and spread rates. The spinners also change speed automatically to match the width required based on the amount of sections - from a total of 14 - that are turned off.

Operators can even shut off one side of the spreader via a button in the tractor cab for when spreading against boundaries or through headlands. The spreader can work with any ISOBUS-compatible tractor, with monitors available for tractors that are not ISOBUS compatible.

Agri-Spread said the section control capability could save users up to 20 per cent in fertiliser use.

The AS2000 range also has reliable hydraulic systems and load cells - on which the bin sits - for precise applications. The load-sensing hydraulics are compatible with tractors using similar systems.

The conveyor runs on a patented ribbed belt which eliminates slipping and is therefore lower maintenance compared to rival systems, Agri-Spread said. Its cassette design allows it to be removed from the spreader in one piece for quick maintenance and repair.

Agri-Spread said the new series is capable of spreading a wide variety of products and has been designed to last. It uses stainless-steel for its fastenings and hydraulic fittings, as well as rear spreading deck and bottom third of the bin.

Options on the AS2000 spreader range include a choice of axle widths to 3m (on selected models) ; full stainless-steel bin; lug or flotation tyres; headland control and hydraulic folding curtains. The curtains create a low-pressure area that forces product to the ground for significantly increased production, Agri-Spread said.

Waringa Distribution is based in Geraldton in Western Australia and distributes the Agri-Spread product through a national network of dealers.