Feed pad with rubber matting hailed as game changer
For Otago farmers Michelle and Rogan Borrie, a newly constructed feed pad on one of their three farms has been a game changer.
Pöttinger, as the lead company, is running a state-of-the-art research and testing centre, offering prototype construction, testing, measurement and inspection technology.
The latter is used not only for Pöttinger’s agricultural machinery, but also for running pilot projects for external customers.
During development of agricultural machinery, the test centre has the task of generating knowledge for the transfer to series production and collaborating with testing companies to guarantee the best possible working result. Additionally, durability testing is carried out on the test beds that cover the full-service life under operational conditions such as those found in the field.
A recent expansion at the Centre provides 1800m² of additional floor space; 1300m² of this is dedicated to testing technology, with the remainder for prototyping, with equipment that includes a 360m² component testing station for individual test bed setups.
Described as using the most modern component testing equipment in Europe, the Centre also provides access to test scenarios for e-mobility including testing of high-voltage components.
Markus Baldinger, Pöttinger managing director, explains that in addition to investing in modern production plants, the company has a strong focus on testing and inspecting agricultural machinery.
“This additional investment in TIZ 3 sees us fulfilling our promise to our customers regarding high quality, strength, reliability and durability.
“The tests that simulate real operating conditions save up to 75% of the time and costs compared to practical tests performed in the field.”
