Sunday, 24 June 2018 11:55

JD goes high-tech in SP sprayers

Written by  Mark Daniel
The JD R4050i’s boom is said to be much lighter than steel or aluminium, but at least five times stronger than a steel equivalent. The JD R4050i’s boom is said to be much lighter than steel or aluminium, but at least five times stronger than a steel equivalent.

In the northern hemisphere, John Deere has released details of its new R4050i self-propelled sprayer, with a new PowrSpray control system, a larger 5000L tank and an “ultra-lightweight but extremely strong” carbon-fibre boom.

It is powered by JD’s PowerTech PSS engine of 6.8L, developing 235hp at rated speed and climbing to 255hp at maximum output. 

The unit is also equipped with the company’s GreenStar 3 touch screen display that supports FieldDoc spray documentation and has full ISOBUS compatibility.

Other standard equipment includes a multi-function control lever, electronic sprayer control -- aptly named Solution Command to oversee all functions – and a 50L PowrFill induction system. 

The new PowrSpray system uses a dual circuit layout fed by two pumps, and a new waterproof keypad and digital display at the operator station aids control of the system.

The boom’s carbon-fibre technology stems from JD’s recent purchase of King Agro, a specialist manufacturer of carbon-fibre products. 

On the R4050i, the boom is said to be much lighter than steel or aluminium, but at least five times stronger than a steel equivalent would be. It can flex in use, avoiding the stress that would typically show up as cracks in metal units. 

It comes in 18 or 36m operating widths.

The manufacturer claims the carbon-fibre composition can withstand high dynamic loads when used for application at 20 - 30km/h. 

LED boom lights extend its operation in low-light conditions or at night.

Rural News understands the machine will be available in NZ later in the year.

More like this

JD introduces new S7 Series headers

John Deere says its S Series combines have been redesigned and optimised with innovative technologies to build on their proven performance in Australian and New Zealand conditions.

JD unveils its latest beast

John Deere has unveiled its most powerful tractor ever, with the launch of the all new 9RX Series Tractor line-up – including three new high-horsepower four-track models.

Killing weed seeds in a single pass

John Deere's X-Series Combine Harvesters can now be complemented by the advanced weed control capability of Redekop’s Seed Control Unit (SCU) which destroys harvestable weed seeds in a single pass.

Killing weed seeds in a single pass

John Deere's X-Series Combine Harvesters can now be complemented by the advanced weed control capability of Redekop’s Seed Control Unit (SCU) which destroys harvestable weed seeds in a single pass.

Featured

TV series to combat food waste

Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.

Celebrating success

The Director General of MPI, Ray Smith says it's important for his department to celebrate the success of a whole range of groups and people around the country.

Biosecurity award for M. bovis work

A small company which mobilised veterinarians around the country to deal with Mycoplasma bovis was one of the winners in this year's Biosecurity Awards, held at Parliament.

Cyclone's devastating legacy

One of the country's top Māori sheep and beef farms is facing a five-year battle to get back to where it was before Cyclone Gabrielle struck just over 14 months ago.

National

Machinery & Products

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.

AGTEK and ARGO part ways

After 12 years of representing the Landini and McCormick brands in New Zealand, Bay of Plenty-based AGTEK and the brands’…

100 years of Farmall Tractors

Returning after an enforced break, the Wheat and Wheels Rally will take place on the Lauriston -Barhill Road, North-East of…

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

Cut with care

OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.

Bubble burst!

OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter