PM opens new Power Farming facility
Morrinsville based Power Farming Group has launched a flagship New Zealand facility in partnership with global construction manufacturer JCB Construction.
Front suspension on tractors is normally associated with high specification models that do haulage work at high speeds.
So it's interesting to see tractor manufacturer SDF launch a new system for the SAME Frutteto range, whose domain is normally vineyards or orchards.
It's not uncommon to find these types of enterprises located in challenging areas, so the addition of an independent front suspension system has the potential to increase stability and more importantly improve driver safety.
ActiveDrive takes technology used in the companies' premium models, with the addition of sophisticated hydraulics and electronics, to high levels of precision in the reaction times and adjustment of the system. The layout comprises a pair of hydraulic cylinders linking the independent front suspension arms to the axle carrier assembly. The mechanical components are monitored by a combination of two speed sensors, two position sensors, a steering angle sensor and three nitrogen accumulators.
In operation the electronic system analyses the motion and speed of the hydraulic cylinders alongside the tractor's speed and steering angle. The information is used to keep the suspension level, irrespective of load on the front axle. This in turn allows the mechanical system to make use of the entire damping travel available and ensure effective anti-roll control.
Braking performance is also improved on slopes in particular with the inclusion of an anti-dive function which stops the front end 'dipping' under braking, and shifting the centre of gravity forwards, which if unchecked transfers load off the rear wheels.
Available for the Frutteto S and V ranges with power from 80-110hp, in either 3- or 4-cylinder configuration, the tractor recently won Best Specialised prize at the recent Tractor of the Year Awards 2016.
The red meat sector is welcoming the start of trade negotiations between New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Meat processor Alliance Group's cash-strapped farmer shareholders face a dilemma - either pour more money into the co-operative or risk losing 100% ownership and control.
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.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.