RoGator C-series sprayers break cover

Local spraying equipment distributor Croplands has announced the arrival of the new RoGator C-series self-propelled sprayers in Australia, which the company says will offer a number of smart features for more efficient operations.

Two models will be offered in Australia, namely the RoGator C-Series 1100C with a 4163-litre tank, and the RoGator 1300C with a 5000 or 6000-litre tank. Both models are powered by an 8.4-litre AGCO Power diesel engine.

While the new range does not look too different from its predecessors, it features several advanced technologies in the cab which gives operators better control and an overall improved spraying operation.

A new Smart Drive system links the tractor management system (TMS) and drive functions, so no operator input is needed. The TMS controls both engine RPMs and hydrostatic drives for efficient operation in even the most undulating of terrains.

Croplands Area Sales Manager, Steve Ross, attended the launch of the C-Series in Jackson, Minnesota in the United States.

“To drive it was very user friendly, almost CVT like,” he says.

“The SmartDrive system doesn’t create burms on headlands, proving a better boom ride and making it more comfortable for the operator.

“The flexible chassis provides even ground distribution and with the addition of the traction control – this is the ultimate combination. This machine would perform amazingly in challenging paddock conditions.”

The new RoGator C-series features all-wheel traction control with a hydrostatic, four-wheel drive system, which according to Croplands, is an industry first that provides power to the wheels with no slip.

If the system senses a wheel slipping, it diverts power to the wheels that still have grip to keep the sprayer moving. The operator has ultimate control with two-wheel or four-wheel drive options that can be selected from the cab.

Optional four-wheel steering provides a turning radius so tight that the sprayer leaves only two tracks in the paddock, Croplands says, with the rear wheels following the front with ease. Folding the boom is a simple single lever operation.

A LiquidLogic plumbing system improves spray accuracy by creating consistent pressure across the boom which maintains a consistent droplet size across all nozzles.

“There is only 1 psi, plus or minus across the boom, which is a huge advantage in the plumbing system and makes the accuracy in spraying so exact,” Ross explains.

“It’s by far the smartest applicator on the market.”

A ClearFlow recovery system on the new sprayer units uses air to force chemical from the boom lines back into the tank to minimise waste and contamination. Croplands claims this is another industry first and the process is done from the cab, making life easier for the operator.

The RoGator C-series sprayers feature a user interface known as Accuterminal, with fingertip control to monitor and control all chassis and machine functions, including rate and section control, guidance and optional cameras.

The Accuterminal screen uses touch-screen technology which allows operators to move screen views with ease and view up to four different functions at one time. The electronic controls can also automatically manage agitation to avoid foaming in the tank as product level falls.

Optional 48.5m Pommier aluminium booms will be available with the RG1300C model, for contractors and farmers who want extra width.

Croplands is now accepting orders for the RoGator C-series with delivery expected to be in early 2018. Customers who place their orders before December 31, 2017 will receive a free trip to the AGCO factory in the USA.

Pricing for the RG1100C starts from $550,000, and the RG1300C from $575,000.

Croplands will be receiving the first batch of RoGator C-series in Australia before Christmas and is planning a series of demonstrations around the country in early 2018.