The Sugarfest at Amatikulu in KwaZulu-Natal displays the latest specialised machinery and implements in the industry.
Several innovative examples were on show. A highlight was the Matriarch ULT Eco5 slew loader, manufactured by Matriarch Equipment of Richards Bay. Currently being tested in canefields near Empangeni, it is proving highly successful. The unit is powered by a 63kW JCB Diesel Max 444 T2 NA. The boom can slew 190° for speedy, efficient loading. UniCab showed a well-made cane tip trailer. The load can be discharged in one go as the unit moves forward when tipping. Capacity is 16m³ and payload 6t.
Furrow closer and roller
Specialised Agricultural Machinery is based in Pietermaritzburg. SAM’s furrow closer and compactor roller incorporates a tank and electrically-powered sprayer unit to simultaneously apply insecticide or fungicide, promoting healthy growth of the cane sets.
From Bobcat
The Bobcat T870 compact skid steer loader (above) has a 74kW Kubota engine. With its tracks and skid steer manoeuvrability, it can go practically anywhere. The Bobcat S185 with grader attachment is configured similarly to a conventional road grader. Powered by 45,5kW Kubota diesel engine, it’s a highly efficient combination.
Made in South Africa for export to Zambia
The Dezzi H140T 4×2 Hauler Tractor on show was one of a pair destined for export to Zambia, where they’ll be used with double tandem trailer combinations to haul sugarcane from the field to the mill. The 140T is powered by a six-cylinder 5,9l Cummins turbocharged engine rated at 149kW driving through an Allison full power shift/automatic transmission to a Rockwell rear axle. Top road speed is 40km/h. Dezzi tractors are manufactured by Desmond Equipment SA at Port Shepstone on the KZN south coast.
Fire tender
The 1 000l fire tender from Rovic & Leers is equipped with two hose reels, each holding 30m of hose, and a Honda GX160 petrol engine-powered pump. Self-filling from a dam or stream takes just over three minutes. The fire tender comes with suspension, road lights and a ball-type trailer hitch.
Disc harrow
TWK Landbou showed the impressive Maxi Disc 20/2300L trailed offset disc harrow. The high tensile frame is made of 100mm x 100mm x 6mm square tubing and the twenty 610mm discs exert a weight of 65kg/disc. The gang axles are made of 45mm diameter solid steel. The cutting width of the implement is 2,3m.
