Murphy Bros, based in Ferns, Co Wexford, will display a new circular blade firewood processor at their stand, block 2, row 6, stand 27. Manufactured in Italy by Metal Agricola, the 800 and 1000 models are designed to process logs up to a diameter of 33cm to 45cm (13.5in and 16.8in), respectively.

According to Murphy Bros, the processors are very robust, high-specification machines with a hydraulically driven blade and a separate hydraulic pump for all other main functions.

A 14t splitting ram is standard, while there is the option of fitting 16t or 18t rams.

Other options

Other options include photocell to measure logs accurately, 4m or 5m hydraulic telescopic belt, foot controls, two- and three-chain timber decks, road wheels and trailer hitch.

Of particular interest is a chute which can be fitted instead of the in-feed belt. This is useful where you are cutting large amounts of small-diameter logs that do not require splitting.

The logs are pushed forward automatically and, after being cut at the appropriate length by the blade, they can bypass the splitting box and feed directly onto the extraction belt.

The Metal Agricola 800 will be demonstrated on the Murphy Bros stand together with a wide range of firewood and forestry equipment.

Secure fuel from Rotech

Rotech, based in Killinick, Co Wexford, is launching a new, secure 5,000-litre bunded diesel storage tank at this year’s Ploughing Championships.

This is an all-steel tank featuring an integrated security cabinet to protect the unit’s key components from damage or theft.

All the pumping, filtration and dispensing elements of the fuel tank system are contained within the security cabinet. These are completely enclosed when its lid is down and secured in place by a padlock.

The padlock itself is further enclosed in a steel pocket to prevent someone striking it with a hammer. The fill point for the tank is also under the security hood. The tank has four eyelets at the top corners to facilitate hoisting or moving it.

According to Rotech, the tank consists of 3mm sheets of steel on the inner and outer skins. Standard pumping equipment includes a 56-litre per minute pump, 10-micron dirt filter, water absorbent filter, metering unit, hose and automatic nozzle.

Rotech can fit a higher capacity pump, depending on the customer’s needs. Pricing is expected to be around €4,200 + VAT.