Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
The newly launched Waikato Milking Systems Walkover Sprayer is designed for use in herringbone and parallel dairies to apply teat spray accurately during entry or exit.
For large dairies or those with limited exit yard space, two Walkover systems can be installed - one for each row of the exit area.
Waikato Milking notes that by installing the system close to the exit point, cows are sprayed immediately after milking, with little or no disruption to cow flow, alongside a reduction in contamination from splashing in the holding yard.
Manufactured with extensive use of stainless steel - said to deliver reliability, longevity and performance - the system uses optical sensors to automatically deploy two or four spray nozzles, based on the speed of the animal passing overhead. An automated wash cycle keeps the sensors and spray nozzles clean, while an optional 'purge' system using clean water reduces problems with teat spray build-up and dirt build-up.
Animals tread on tough rubber matting to encourage forward movement, receiving a programmable dose of 30 to 50ml of teat spray.
The manufacturers says the system also offers the benefit of removing the risk of chemical exposure to staff who might have allergies, particularly those chemicals that might contain iodine.
Compatible with most commonly available teat sprays, the system requires a 110 or 240V power supply that in turn is "stepped" down to 24 Volt DC at the unit. A compressed air feed, delivered by an 8mm line, is required at 90 psi, with consumption of around 2.5 litres/minute.
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
OPINION: Canterbury milk processor Synlait is showing no sign of bouncing back from its financial doldrums.
OPINION: It seems every bugger in this country can get an award these days.