McHale C460

This machine has a lot to offer with its twin-speed gearbox for different crop types, 300° three-stage feed chute, joystick chute control, external loading controls, independent rotor drive with hydraulic activation and its clever machine body design.

The feed rotor is equipped with 56 blades mounted on seven discs. The feed rotor is independent of the flywheel, allowing the operator to bring the flywheel up to full speed before starting the feed rotor.

The feed rotor can be engaged and disengaged from the tractor cab. This feature reduces the amount of power required to start and run the machine and reduces the risk of blockages.

Kverneland 864

The Kuhn Primor 3570 M

Kverneland had more than one model on show but the 864 took centre stage. It has a 4.2m³ chamber size to accommodate both large round and square bales. Its key selling points are its capability to blow distances of up to 25m, blockage-free design drum feed control system and integrated stone trap, along with its unique drum knife configuration.

Like with the McHale C460, the Kverneland 864 offers a “gentle start feature” where once the flywheel reaches a sufficient speed all you need to do is to push a button and the DFCS "fingers" will be gradually disengaged and open for full flow through the flywheel. This results in a “perfect flow”, protecting the machine and reducing the risk of blockages.

Kuhn Primor 3570 M

Kuhn is no stranger to the feed and bedding market. The Primor 3570 M has a chamber capacity of 3.5m3 electrical controls, offered as standard with this machine.

A key feature of the Primor is the Polydrive hydraulically disengageable belt drive for fast, even haylage distribution.

With the adjustable control system also fitted as standard, the machine adapts to the fodder being distributed by altering the 13m distance angle of attack of the feed rotor.

Kuhn recommends that a minimum of 50hp is required to operate this blower. The Primor 3570 M also offers a twin-speed gearbox which can be operated at 270rpm or 540rpm.

Teagle Tomahawk 8555 Dual Chop

The Teagle Tomahawk 8555 dual chop is new to the market, with this year’s National Ploughing Championships marking one of its first public appearances.

The 8555 is the predecessor of the existing 8550 with the main difference being the removable screen to allow for a shorter chop length. The screen choices available are 30, 40, 50 and 80mm x 50mm.

Another nice feature of the new 8555 is the automatic chain lubrication, along with the remote grease points, making maintenance easier for the farmer. Teagle believes that this new chopper will fit well into the Irish market.

Redrock C300

Redrock had on offer its C300 straw blower which is more than capable of dispensing both bales of straw and silage.

The C300 requires a minimum of 65hp and features a rear self-loading door so no other machine is required during the feeding or bedding operation.

The unique “V”-shaped butterfly cutting knives dismantle the bale with ease and the uniquely designed flywheel can spread the straw to a distance of 18m.