Spray solution for vineyards

Silvan Australia has released the new generation of its Turbomiser spraying technology with specific applications for vineyard operations.

Designated as the Turbo SCRAM - Silvan Centrifugal Remote Air Module - the innovation combines the coverage and water savings of Silvan's Turbomiser technology with the efficiency and safety advantages of a cutting-edge hydraulic drive fan system, to create the next generation in efficient crop protection.

A key feature is the application of the 320mm-diameter German-made high-performance hydraulic drive centrifugal fans that are engineered to provide the high air velocity needed for optimum spray coverage.

The fans also draw their air from 2m high, with one fan on each end of the "wrap" air tube of the sprayer.

Key benefits are the even air distribution and the elimination of leaf blockages or fruit damage by a sandblasting effect.

Each of the fans operates highly efficiently and at a low noise level and are powered by the hitch-mounted hydraulic power pack that can be disengaged during tank fills and spray agitation, increasing operator safety.

The hitch also allows for a tighter turning circle, especially at headland turns at the end of rows.

The specially designed Silvan "wrap" tube assembly is supported by an anodised marine-grade aluminium exoskeleton with its wrap-around profile designed to create air turbulence in the vine canopy.

The multiple high-velocity air streams also eliminate shadowing to achieve optimal spray coverage.

The Turbo SCRAM is an optional choice on Silvan 2000, 3500 and 4000-litre tank capacity spray units and can also be fitted to the Silvan G2E and G2 sprayers.

Other key features are a fully galvanised rectangular hollow-section steel chassis frame and spray boom assembly with a hydraulic opening and closing function, plus rollers for easy row-width adjustment.

The chassis is supported by a tandem axle suspension for a smooth ride.

In combination the Turbomiser technology allows individual spray nozzle rate control with low nozzle wear and with a narrow droplet spectrum.

This enables target spraying to be achieved for excellent coverage and more efficient use of chemicals.

Silvan Australia's spraying specialist Gavin Wheatcroft said the new Turbo SCRAM is the result of extensive research and development conducted by the long-established company together with the ability to source the best available componentry to provide what growers want.

"In creating the Silvan Turbo SCRAM, we have employed feedback from a number of Australia's top vineyard owners, managers and operators on the application features they are seeking," he said. "I believe the Silvan Turbo SCRAM is a new product innovation with significant application potential to meet today's demands of efficient and high-quality grape production."