Bateman RB35

This self-propelled sprayer from Bateman (above) comes with an impressive specification sheet, from its 4000 litre tank and 28m boom to its 225 horsepower engine. The tyres on this machine are 42-85 r 34 Michelin Yieldbibs, which were specially imported by Bateman to give it the desired footprint. The Panorama 3 Cab with its 270° unrestricted view is new to this model. The specially shaped glass is produced in Ireland by Taylor Made Glass & Systems in Tipperary. This impressive piece of kit comes with a list price of €207,000 plus VAT.

Keenan VA2-24S

This was the first sighting of the much talked about collaboration between Keenan and Storti, which gives us a vertical auger machine in Keenan colours. Keenan are well known for their paddle feeders but say this is a major development to their range. The machine shown in the picture is the 24 metre cubed version weighing in at approximately 7,720kg depending on exact specifications when empty and 16000kg when full. The Keenan InTouch system has been added to the hardware supplied by Storti, giving more control over the adding and mixing process. These new machines in the range will give much larger throughput than the existing paddle machines. Prices start from €47,000 ex VAT (list price).

Giant Tendo 4548 HD

Despite its name, this telescopic loader is at the smaller end of the size scale. Its tiny dimensions of 1.57m high by 1.79m wide and a wheelbase of 1.95m make it ideal for working in smaller areas. Power is supplied by a 45hp Kubota diesel engine, giving it a lift capacity of 1.5t, up to a height of 4.8m. Giant machines have been available in Ireland for a couple of years but this was their first appearance at the FTMTA show. The list price for this machine is €45,000 plus VAT.

Grimme Varitron 220

This was the most expensive machine on show last week, weighing in at a hefty €450,000 plus VAT. For that money you get a 324hp, 22t potato harvester with a lot of output. According to a spokesman it is capable of harvesting 15 acres per day in perfect conditions. That would be approximately 250t of potatoes or 50,000 5kg supermarket bags in one day. Though not all are this size, there are 44 self-propelled Grimme harvesters working on the island of Ireland.

Read more

FTMTA Machinery Show 2017 highlights – part 2

FTMTA Machinery Show 2017 highlights – part 3

Full coverage: FTMTA Farm Machinery Show