British manufacturer Mzuri has launched an additional drill – the Mzuri IPass – into its existing range. Built on the same core principles as current models, the new machine has been developed to offer growers higher output and efficient, low-disturbance seeding.
The IPass boasts a 5,000-litre pressurised tank to meter and convey high-application seed and fertiliser rates accurately at higher forward speeds. The large-capacity tank features four variable-speed electric metering units for efficient delivery across the width of the machine. Two units control fertiliser and two control seed, giving operators the option to shut off half of the working width.
The IPass metering system can accommodate all fertiliser compounds and seed types typical of most arable operations, from small OSR and grass seeds to large maize and winter beans.
A unique coulter configuration gives the Mzuri IPass excellent seeding capabilities into a range of surface types including cover crops, stubble, grassland and even cultivated ground. The leading disc cuts through surface residue, slicing the field surface to promote lower disturbance of the following coulters. The primary knife coulter clears trash from the till and band-places fertiliser below the seeding zone. A secondary seeding coulter follows on a unique ball joint system to allow the coulter to self-steer behind the path of the band-placed fertiliser.
Suspended by an independent parallel linkage, the coulter angle is unaffected by seeding depth regardless of terrain. Individual V-shaped depth wheels offer exceptional reconsolidation behind the seeded zone, while also maintaining accurate seeding depth across the width of the machine for even emergence.
The Mzuri iPass is available in widths of 4.0m, 4.8m, 6.0m and 8.0m, and operators can choose between two row spacing options per model.
Mzuri has already started to take orders for the IPass with a strong interest from growers who’re looking to achieve high-output, lower-disturbance drilling, all while retaining the flexibility and reliability to drill into a range of soil and surface types.
Mzuri founder and engineer Martin Lole said he was extremely excited about this new drill and had been involved in its development for the past three years.
“Our initial goal was to continue to take further the huge financial benefits that the Mzuri system has brought to our customers, including reductions in fuel usage and savings to labour,” he added. “However, with soaring fertiliser prices taking us in the region of £1/kg, the benefits of band placing fertiliser, fast outstrip any remaining doubt surrounding this type of system and contribute to savings of an almost unimaginable level.
“For spring crops in particular, where the effectiveness of broadcast fertiliser in dry weather is questionable, if we were to band place it during drilling, I would expect to use half of the usual amount thanks to it being delivered where the crop needs it below the soil line and into moisture, reducing the amount lost to the atmosphere.”
