PHOTO | New machinery at Dutch trade fair ATH

Here’s an overview of the most notable machinery news at the Dutch AgroTechniek Holland (ATH) fair. Photos: Mark Pasveer

Last week the Dutch trade fair for agricultural machinery ATH took place. Some new machinery was shown, a photo report.

Garford, a hoe manufacturer, has partnered with the British brand Rootwave. From 2025, Garford weeders with a working width of up to 6 meters will be available with Rootwave’s electric weed-killing system. The elements fit directly onto the Garford frame, recognizable by its diamond-shaped openings. According to the importer, this also means that the system can later be added to a hoeing machine already in use. In combination with a 60 kW generator in the front linkage, you can electrically eliminate (stubborn) weeds in row crops. Later, 120 kW and 180 kW variants will also enter the market.

A special machine: a drip tape laying machine from Dutch ODV Techniek. part of the Vredo family. A double-disc system creates a trench in the ground. The tape is then laid in it, secured by soil pressed down by spring-loaded press wheels. The elements feature a spring-loaded parallelogram to ensure smooth ground following. The machine is suitable for arable farming and horticulture.

Notable is the growing focus on electrifying irrigation. Even among reel manufacturers, there are innovations in this area. For instance, Irrimec presents a prototype of an electrically operated reel. The turbine drive has been replaced with an electric motor on the gearbox. Behind the black control box is a converter and a small control panel. It gives instructions on which gear to choose. If it's running too hard, you'll get a message to switch to another gear. The electric motor is powered by a battery pack, which in turn is charged by solar panels. The solar panels are adjustable over the reel, allowing you to position them for optimal sunlight. Hose lengths for this reel include 350 or 400 meters, with diameters of 110 or 100 mm, respectively. Other reels and hose types will follow later. It is also not yet clear how long the battery lasts without sunlight: this is still being tested. — Notable is the growing focus on electrifying irrigation. Even among reel manufacturers, there are innovations in this area. For instance, Irrimec presents a prototype of an electrically operated reel. The turbine drive has been replaced with an electric motor on the gearbox. Behind the black control box is a converter and a small control panel. It gives instructions on which gear to choose. If it’s running too hard, you’ll get a message to switch to another gear. The electric motor is powered by a battery pack, which in turn is charged by solar panels. The solar panels are adjustable over the reel, allowing you to position them for optimal sunlight. Hose lengths for this reel include 350 or 400 meters, with diameters of 110 or 100 mm, respectively. Other reels and hose types will follow later. It is also not yet clear how long the battery lasts without sunlight: this is still being tested.

Another reel that stole the show: the Irrimec MMV. This reel was specifically developed for large Dutch companies at the request of Vlaming Agri. The drum that holds the hose is reinforced and weighted. The gearbox of the turbine-powered reel is also reinforced, and the drum is driven on both sides. The giant measures 3 meters wide and 4 meters high. Suitable hoses include 125 mm x 600 m or 140 mm x 500 m.

Holland Utrecht BV will sell the electric tractor they previously marketed as Fendt-E under the brand name Hue-Trac. Since September 1, the company has been selling the electrified Fendt under the abbreviation Holland Utrecht Electric Tractor (Hue-Trac). Compared to the previous model, it now features new LFP batteries and a more powerful DC permanent magnet electric motor. Compared to the old setup, efficiency is higher, up to 97%. The new setup results in 15% more working hours. It can also fast-charge up to 100 kW. The battery charges fully within 3.5 hours. So far, three have been sold, and the delivery time is six months.