Davimac bins keep growers on track

In sync with the major trend to tracked drive systems in high horsepower tractors and combine harvesters, Davimac has become the first Australian manufacturer to design, build and fabricate a rubber track system for the best chaser bins sought by grain growers and contractors.

According to Davimac, the benefits of the new tracked bins have been found to be much wider than originally expected.

With Davimac's tracked chaser bins, there is less likelihood of being bogged in light sandy country, while also opening a wider harvest window in wet conditions.

Especially in WA, the benefits of reducing compaction on cropping country have been quickly demonstrated and recognised, chiefly in significantly improved yields.

With many grain growers having already adopted tracked tractors to this end, it was only logical to extend the benefits by reducing soil compaction under the high capacity chaser bins used to get the crop out of the paddock.

New South Wales manufacturer Davimac, already recognised for more than 30 years for some of the best chaser bins and implements in Australian farming, has led the way in this innovation.

With a track width of 914mm (36 inches) and a ground contact length of more than three metres, Davimac tracked bins significantly increase flotation and reduce ground pressure and soil compaction while carrying up to 35 tonnes of grain, dependent on model.

A well-designed rubber track system will handle higher loads than comparable wheeled bins.

Tracks are supplied optionally at 2.56 or three-metre centres for ready compatibility with popular tramlining and systems farming operations.

Each track is mounted on four-track end wheels and supported by eight-track mid wheels.

A narrower 60cm track option will be released next year.

Track tension is maintained by an inbuilt hydraulic system, boasting an easy-to-check pressure gauge and pressure release system for maintenance.

While dramatically reducing soil compaction under significant loads, Davimac tracked bins also turn easily without the "scrubbing" experienced with non-steerable wheeled bins on bogie axles.

This further reduces soil impacts, while also easing draft loads on the tractor.

To further complement the advantages of its tracked bins, Davimac has introduced a unique Cushion Hitch - another first for Australian manufacturers.

The Cushion Hitch reduces shunting and jarring being transferred between the tractor and the bin when travelling over rough terrain. This is smoother for the operator and reduces wear and tear on both tractor and bin.

Early feedback on the Davimac tracked chaser bins suggests demand will soon challenge supply, while recognition of the innovation has resulted in the manufacturer's nomination as the first entry in the 2015 Henty Machine of the Year Award.

"Our engineering, materials and workmanship have produced a world-class machine built to meet the high expectations of Aussie farmers," Davimac managing director Shannon McNab said.

"By adding the innovations of rubber tracks and Cushion Hitch, we have built something even better off our excellent chaser bins."

Davimac's tracked chaser bins are distributed in WA through the Agrowplow dealer network.

Davimac will be displaying its tracked chaser bins at this year's Dowerin and Newdegate machinery field days.

For more information, contact Mr McNab on (02) 6366 8584.