Further development of the 2014 SwathAir grass tedder by Blaney Agri has resulted in a machine that is claimed to give improved air induction and faster drying in the swath. Blaney Agri’s test group of farmers have highlighted the need to turn swards to dry the damp grass underneath, touching the ground, which has not benefited from the wilting process.

The tedder uses a novel flick-out rotor, which claims to tease apart the longer grass leaves, creating an optimised sward structure for air circulation and enhancing the rate of drying.

Blaney Agri development engineer Dave Wills said that by accelerating the centre of the sward and separating the grass from its parallel mowed position to an alternate pattern, more stalk gaps are introduced for improved wind drying and less damage caused by unforeseen rain compared with conditioner spreading.

“Our results have shown 75% less effluent comes from wilted grass using the SwathAir than direct cut silage. Baled silage, where the Blaney SwathAir has been used on the sward, should result in 28% dry matter (DM) compared with 19% DM for unwilted grass,” said Dave.

Blaney Agri claims that the machine allows them to produce round bales that are packed fuller for a better shape. This will result in up to 30% less bales and will greatly reduce unnecessary wrapping costs per hectare, according to the company.

The body of the 2014 Blaney SwathAir can be adjusted according to the weight of grass to create a sward suited to a baler. The doors have been developed for better sward control, while the wheels are larger and use lower ground pressure tyres for softer ground conditions.

The price of the 2.5m wide SwathAir Pro is £3,995, or €4,995, plus VAT. Blaney Agri can be contacted at 028/048-25872801or visit the website www.blaneyagri.com