October 2006

Compost spreaders meet councils' needs

More local authorities are collecting and recycling green waste to create high-quality compost on a large scale. Campey Turf Care Systems have the ideal machines for the quick and effective application of the finished material, in the form of the Dakota 412 and 414 Turf Tenders.

The machines combine versatility with a high work-rate. The spreading operation is easily adjusted by electro-hydraulic controls in the tractor cab, with application widths being variable from 3.5-9.0m (11ft 6in-30ft). Both feature a specially designed dual spinner system for consistent performance without clogging.

The 412 can be operated with tractors of 30hp and above with a hydraulic flow rate of 20 litres per minute. It has a maximum level load capacity of 1.68 cu m (11.7 cu yd). Measuring 3.66m long, 2.075m wide and 1.68m high (144in by 81in by 67in), its unladen weight is 827kg (1,820 lbs).

The larger 414 can be powered by a 40hp tractor or larger, again with a 20 litres per minute hydraulic flow rate. Weighing 1361kg (3,000 lbs) unladen, its dimensions are 4.77m long by 2.59m wide by 2m high (188in by 102in by 72in). Its maximum level load capacity is 3.25 cu m (4.25 cu yd).

Both machines feature independent walking beam axles. These ensure a light footprint on turf surfaces and enable ground contours to be followed easily. Maximum operating speed is an impressive 7.5mph.

An electronic control box gives clear digital readouts of settings for total accuracy and an optional hopper vibrator can be fitted for optimal distribution.

The 412 and 414 can also be used to spread top-dressing, sand, rubber crumb and grass seed on sports and amenity turf. The machines will be on show on the Campey Turf Care Systems stand at IOG Saltex from 5-7 September at Windsor Racecourse.