High-tech planter plants 1 500 acres
GROWING SUCCESS One of the standout features of the new planter is its remarkable precision, as it ensures accurate placement with virtually no misses and minimal doubles
A leading original-equipment manufacturer (OEM) in agricultural machinery innovation planted 1 500 acres of potatoes at Warden Hutterian Bretheren, in Washington, using its cutting-edge 12-row potato planter, fitted with polymer supplier Vesconite’s bushings.
The new planter incorporates Vesconite low-friction bushings in critical areas, such as the parallel arms of the row units, pivot points of the hitch, depth wheel linkage, toolbar knuckle and folding slider.
Vesconite was chosen because of its bushings’ “low friction, high strength, minimal maintenance, extended service life, and superior durability”, as these features will ensure smooth operation.
“The Vesconite bushings proved to be incredibly strong and durable. Some of the bushings were exposed to very high loads and extreme dust, yet they performed admirably with no visible wear,” says the OEM’s mechanical design engineer.
One of the standout features of the new planter is its “remarkable” precision. Operating at 8.3 km/h, the planter ensures accurate placement with virtually no misses and minimal doubles, making it a “game-changer in potato farming”.
Building on this success, the manufacturer plans to expand its production of the new planter model. The design engineer states that, now that the company has a proven concept, it is excited to move forward with its plans.
“Our goal is to expand our production capabilities and start building more machines in the coming years.”
The engineer adds that the OEM has set its sights on eventually selling these advanced planters globally.
With potatoes ranking as the third most important crop in terms of global food consumption, after rice and wheat, the latest technology in potato planting is crucial for enhancing efficiency, using resources effectively and reducing waste.
The OEM’s planter is likely to assist in boosting potato yields and making potato planting more precise and profitable.
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