Modern disc harrow, a versatile machine essential for various field tasks. It is integral to contemporary farming. Key considerations for selection include suspension type, machine weight, and cultivation purpose
What are disc harrows and how do they work?
A disc harrow is an essential machine on every farm, suitable for various field tasks. Disc harrows excel in shallow post-harvest cultivation, soil preparation for sowing, and mixing manure with soil. Thus, disc harrows are versatile machines for specialized tasks. Before purchasing, carefully consider the intended use, as this will influence its configuration. Evaluate the important parameters to maximize the disc harrow's potential.
Disc harrows, in their basic form, consist of a supporting frame, disc sections, and a roller. The obliquely set discs attached to the cross beam cut the topsoil layer, lifting and turning the cut strips of soil. Modern compact disc harrow designs feature discs mounted on spring or rubber shock absorbers. These designs ensure versatile application, particularly in fields with plant residues such as stubble. Disc harrows are distinguished from other cultivation machines by their relatively low energy demand and low wear of working elements. Individual models vary in disc mounting distance and angle, machine weight, and type of shock absorption. Rolmako offers several types of disc harrows: small for vineyards and orchards, light for tractors with low lifting capacity, heavy stubble, compact, and for ultra-shallow cultivation.
How to choose the right disc harrow: key considerations.
A disc harrow is an implement attached to a tractor; therefore, it is essential to ensure compatibility with your tractor. Before selecting a disc harrow, carefully review the technical specifications. The working width of the U622 Rolmako light disc harrow ranges from 2.7 m to 4.0 m, with a power requirement starting at 85 HP. The heavy U671 Rolmako stubble harrow, available in widths from 3.0 to 6.0 m, can weigh over 10,000 kg. Its aggressive angle of attack demands more power, requiring over 300 HP for efficient operation. Remember, power consumption is also influenced by land conditions.
Heavy disc harrows are optimal for heavy soils, while lighter harrows are suitable for light soils. Given the previously mentioned width of the disc harrow, it is crucial to understand that a wider harrow necessitates a more powerful tractor. An optimal tractor fit is essential because the disc harrow requires working speeds exceeding 10 km/h for proper operation, making impulsive purchases of larger machines potentially detrimental. The same task can be accomplished with a smaller, faster machine. Choosing a smaller working width for the tillage machine is advisable. Wide disc harrows are ideal for expansive areas and require powerful tractors for operation. Rolmako offers machines tailored for service companies and large farmers with extensive fields, such as the BigField 8.0 m and PowerDisc 8.0 - 12.0 m. The most versatile machines are the U652 and SpeedCutter disc harrows, whose design and extensive configuration options make them suitable for universal applications. The final quality of the harrow's work is determined by the discs and their angle of attack. For cultivation and sowing, disc harrows with smaller disc spacings are recommended. At this juncture, consideration should be given to the Rolmako U693 disc harrow.
In addition to disc spacing, their diameter is also crucial. Smaller diameters are suitable for shallow cultivation or stubble work, while larger diameters are intended for deep cultivation. The Rolmako SpeedCutter harrow, with a disc diameter of 440 mm, is an effective solution for ultra-shallow cultivation. A key structural component of every disc harrow is the tillage roller, which influences, among other factors, the working depth of the discs. For soils with high variability in working conditions, V-ring rollers are ideal for suspended machines, while U-ring rollers are optimal for traild disc harrows. A heavy steel roller is appropriate for the most challenging field conditions and is available in the optional equipment of all Rolmako disc harrows.
Disc harrows, a review of the best machines for your farm
Disc harrows are available in multiple versions tailored to specific applications. The lightweight U622 disc harrow from Rolmako features a lighter construction, making it ideal for small and medium-sized farms. Equipped with discs mounted on vibrating springs, it performs effectively on medium and weak soils. Meanwhile, the compact U693 Rolmako disc harrow excels in shallow and intensive cultivation, mixing soil on stubble fields. It efficiently eliminates green areas and fallows, and prepares the soil for sowing. This machine can be configured in various ways, with options for a rigid or hydraulically folded frame, mounted or trailed with a width ranging from 2.7 to 6 meters. It can also be equipped with a seeder coupler, enabling cultivation and sowing combinations, such as a machine with a tire-transport roller and a seeder coupler.
The U652 disc harrow from Rolmako is a stubble and pre-sowing harrow designed to meet high operational standards. It excels in stubble and soil preparation for sowing, thanks to its large disc gaps and vibration dampers. Another machine worth considering is the Rolmako U671 heavy stubble harrow. This disc harrow can effectively replace traditional ploughing and is ideal for extremely hard, dry, and difficult-to-cultivate soils due to its massive, well-balanced frame and large disc gaps. Lastly, the SpeedCutter harrow, designed for ultra-shallow cultivation, is regarded as the multifunctional tool of the new generation. Its wavy discs ensure effective cultivation at minimal depths, making it a valuable asset for farmers seeking optimal results with minimal costs.
Summary
As the agricultural industry evolves, there is an increasing demand for machines that prepare the ground for cultivation and mix stubble with the soil, while also being resistant to damage and economical to use. Disc harrows meet all these requirements and perform well on both heavy and light soils, including those overgrown with cover crops or containing numerous stones. Disc harrows are noted for their high efficiency in mixing soil with plant residues, work speed, universality of use on various soil types, capability to operate in difficult conditions, and quick adaptability to field conditions. Disc harrows from Rolmako are exceptionally durable, high-quality machines. The company not only provides top-notch equipment but also offers professional service, personalized advice, and an extended warranty.