Spaldings announced recently that it is to introduce a new range of heavy-duty mulchers. These are manufactured by TMC Cancela in the heavily forested region of northwestern Spain.

Both tractor- and excavator-mounted machines are available. The tractor-mounted models are built to take anything from 80 to 500 PTO hp, while the excavator-mounted machines are hydraulically driven with the largest model suitable for excavators in the 25t to 40t class.

Since partnering with TMC Cancela last year, Spaldings has seen a positive uptake in the range of horizontal-toothed rotor machines across Ireland and the UK. Working widths of the machines range from 0.6m to 2.50m with the 2.25m model expected to be the most popular. Smaller models in the range are built to handle scrub, saplings and young trees up to 250mm, while the range-topping TFR-225 can handle trees up to 700mm in diameter.

Teeth

Three different types of tungsten rotor teeth are available depending on the application. These are held in place by two recessed bolts to avoid contact with the material being mulched. To keep these clear, up to six rows of Hardox steel-fixed counter blades can be fitted.

Other options include rigid and hydraulic push bars for directing material into the rotor and bi-directional PTO input. This allows the machine to be front- or rear-mounted.

All models use belt drive to take power to the rotor. Hydraulic pipework, drive belts and hydraulic rams are all protected from damage with heavy steel.