NEW enhancements to harvester-integrated weed seed destructor technology will be on show at AgQuip this year and are set to further boost grower interest and sales for the 2017 grain harvest.
The Integrated Harrington Seed Destructor (iHSD) comprises two hydraulically-driven cage mills mounted within the rear of harvesters, just below the sieves.
It has been touted as one of the shining lights in herbicide-resistant weed control.
The system enables one-pass weed control and a reduction in herbicide resistant weeds, thereby allowing better targeted and efficient chemical control in following seasons.
It also reduces the need for burning, hence also improving soil organic matter.
The effectiveness of the iHSD has now been tested with 25 weed seed species.
Research undertaken by the Australian Herbicide Resistance Initiative (AHRI) has determined the mills can destroy 93 to 99 per cent of weed seeds, preventing the majority from entering the soil seed bank.
Built on the long-term innovation and proven performance of the tow-behind Harrington Seed Destructor, 12 integrated systems operated successfully in Western Australia last season.
Via national distributor McIntosh Distribution, all will be upgraded with the latest enhancements.
Darryl Verburg, iHSD distribution sales representative across Australia with McIntosh Distribution, said the enhancements focused on improving the iHSD’s cooling capacity.
They also adjusted the chute design to allow better feeding into the mills and accessibility to the sieves; and set up the hydraulic system to constantly provide 3000 RPM, enabling material to move freely through the mills.
Mr Verburg said the coolers were also now easier to clean out, with double swing-out doors, while the new chute design allowed switching from cereals to pulses without any changes.
Other enhancements include different oil cooler particle screening options, including a fixed or rotary screen, and simplified user interface on the in-cab control, display and monitoring system.
Mr Verburg said the new, enhanced iHSD was tested earlier this year near Mount Gambier in South Australia, during harvest from January to March, and was a strong success.
He said the technology was generating enormous interest, with a further 50 to 60 systems expected to be installed into headers this year.
“Growers interested in the iHSD system will need to enquire soon to ensure timely supply for the 2017 grain harvest,’’ Mr Verburg said.
McIntosh Distribution has also since established a strong dealer network in Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria and is in the process of appointing NSW and Queensland dealers, all of whom will provide local support and parts access.
Mr Verburg will be on-hand at AgQuip to discuss the workings of the iHSD with growers.
- For further information on the systems, contact (08) 9475 1669 or 0427 782 161 or visit the Miller – McIntosh Distribution site at Q-R/05-06.
The iHSD system enables one-pass weed control and a reduction in herbicide resistant weeds.
