Direct strip seeding specialist Claydon has launched its new Evolution range of mounted drills for 2022.
Building on the company’s 20 years’ experience, the nine Claydon Evolution models take direct strip seeding to the next level. With working widths of 3.0m, 4.0m, 4.5m, 4.8m, 5.0m and 6.0m, they incorporate nine, 13, 15 or 19 tines. Most feature a 1,910-litre hopper, with the 3.0m 3MF and 4.0m 4MRF having a 2,700-litre tank split 50:50 between seed and fertiliser.
Typical daily outputs for the new drills range from 20ha for the 3.0m Evolution, that needs a tractor of at least 150hp, to 40ha for the 6.0m version that needs a minimum of 300hp.
Claydon Evolution drills combine new levels of operational functionality with the tried and tested features that have made Claydon Opti-Till the crop establishment system of choice for growers who want to reduce costs, increase productivity and improve soil health. All models feature as standard a hydraulic fan, Artemis metering control, tramlining facility, front tine/seven-inch A-share configuration, together with a double rear toolbar and road lights.
The Evolution line-up, that includes a 5.0m unit and 4.0m rigid grain/fertiliser model, incorporates a range of new features to improve operational functionality. Seed depth adjustment is now controlled hydraulically, improved access to the metering unit allows easier calibration, while front-mounted discs that are operated hydraulically from the tractor seat can be specified for seeding into high-residue situations.
The 1,910-litre hopper on seed-only Evolution models holds 160-litres more than current Claydon Hybrid mounted models, while Evolution 3MF and 4.0m 4MRF versions hold an additional 600 litres. This reduces downtime and increases output, while second and third hopper options for applying multiple types, varieties and sizes of seed further enhance versatility.
Other features include quick-fit knock-on/knock-off coulter options for the standard leading tine and A-Share to low-disturbance twin-disc and tine options. Multiple seed tool options allow a wide range of crops to be drilled across different soil types and situations, while the quick-change facility allows fast, easy modification when required. A large, easily accessible toolbox incorporated into the step frame is also standard equipment.
Options include GPS variable-seed-rate capability, pre-emergence marker arms, front disc toolbar stone protection, micro fertiliser applicator, low-disturbance twin tine kit, slug pelleter, blockage sensors, and a light and vision kit.
The strong, rugged design of the Claydon Evolution keeps running costs to a minimum with reliable operation and minimum downtime, enabling fuel-efficient farming and minimal soil disturbance in all sowing scenarios, without compromising crop establishment or yields. The drill operates accurately, reliably, and inexpensively across a wide range of situations, the simple, robust design and great flexibility allowing it to be used in the autumn or spring to establish any crop that can be air sown. The split hopper design of the 3.0m 3MF and 4.0m 4MRF models provides additional versatility, allowing fertiliser to be applied at the time of drilling.
The new Evolution range will be available for delivery from autumn 2022 and will replace the current Hybrid range of mounted drills. Priceas will fall between the Hybrid mounted range it supersedes and the Hybrid trailed drill range.
