Fuelling the discussion
Ride on mower developments continue apace whether that is moving to electric power or increasing efficiency, reports Jane Carley.
Fuelling dilemmas are the talking point of the industry, but while battery developments continue apace, they are not yet the answer for every groundcare operation.
Increased machine efficiency which meets the requirements of grounds managers who need to cut costs or have reduced labour forces is one option, while alternative fuels may also offer solutions. Machines which are versatile enough to do more than just cut grass can also help balance the books.
Developments to Amazone’s Profihopper range have focused on economy and efficiency.
The zero-turn ride-on mowers utilise a tool-less blade change system which means they can mow, scarify, mulch, collect and roll. They can tip into a skip or trailer to clear a site using the high-lift collection hopper.
There are two models: the 1.25m, PH 1250 and the newer 1.5m, PH 1500, now available with a cab.
The debate over running costs and environmental impact is an interesting one, suggests Amazone UK managing director Simon Brown. “With the shift towards less cuts per year to reduce mowing costs, mowers need to handle longer grass –the Profihopper’s horizontal flail rotor and rear auger collection system shreds the grass to a short chop length and then utilises the PowerCompactor system to pack in a full hopper capacity – in wet or dry conditions.
“This means that the mowing frequency can be reduced even further if needed.”
Profihopper mowers feature 45.6hp Stage V diesel engines which are used without AdBlue, and Simon comments: “The mechanical collection system is quieter and requires less power than an air-powered collector.
“The engine management system on the PH 1500 means that the engine revs are automatically set in either road mode or work mode to keep fuel consumption to a minimum.”
Latest PH 1500 models have an ECO-mode for mowing in lighter conditions which sets the rotor to 2,500 revs, instead of the usual 3,400 rpm, reducing fuel consumption, cutting noise and reducing emissions. Grass flow through the mower has also been
streamlined to increase output by 30% with less fuel consumed.
Amazone is researching alternative power sources including bio-oils and biodiesel, Simon explains.
“When it comes to switching away from diesel, this brings challenges due to the power requirement of the unit and the running time required. One option that we have is to go away from a hydrostatic to electric
drive but still run the cutting system via a diesel engine. This would mean greener travelling between jobs and less power needed for the cutting deck and so a smaller engine could be used, with lower emissions, fuel and noise and also reduced use of oil within the drive system.”
With the drive to cut down diesel engine use, consider the impact on the environment and encourage wildlife in open spaces, many parks and gardens now have Toro
“The reason we bought the TG tractor was because we have used ISEKI machines in the past and they have always been reliable. The lifting of the PTO has been a massive benefit, the IQ transmission and automatic clutch shut off is good for when we are turning on the sports fields with ground engaging implements, making it easier for the operator. “The weight and the size of it is much better on our fields for compaction. All-round visibility of the tractor is very much improved compared to our last tractor. It has performed exceptionally well in all weather conditions. We have been very impressed with the tractor - it does everything we ask of it.”
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“AlWAYS SO RELIABLE, IT DOES EVERYTHING WE ASK FOR”
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dedicated wildflower areas. With this comes less frequent cutting requirement, but it necessitates a different type of machine to cope with the workload and collect the vegetation at the end of the season, points out Iseki.
The Iseki SF range offers a variety of finishes - cut and drop, cut and collect, or cut, mulch and drop. It can also be specified with rotary or flail decks at varying widths to suit the application. Scarifying blades can be added to certain units.
It features Stage V compliant diesel engines that run at low revs, producing high torque and ensuring the machines are as economical as possible. Noise is also reduced as the engine is not working so hard to power the machine.
To maintain large areas of grass Iseki offers the top of the range SF551 centre collect mower which is now also available with a Muthing flail deck. The turbine-driven straight through chute offers the ability to cut and collect without blocking in all weather conditions and the wide deck and 1300 litre hopper handles thick grass. To scarify and collect in one pass, the Muthing flail deck blades can be swapped to scarifying blades.
Powered by a 22.5 hp engine, the SF551 is designed to be fuel effi cient and only requires simple maintenance. For increased power there is SF237 35hp mower. There is a clear
desire in the market for the introduction of greener outdoor power equipment, but budget constraints allied to the high unit price of electric mowers, plus the associated requirement for re-thinking working patterns – charging times, increased frequency of cutting to reduce power requirement, for example - means they are not making inroads into the amenity mowing world yet, suggests STM, which represents SCAG machinery.
The company has introduced an electric machine into its range, the EVZ. “Excellent and welldeveloped machine though it is, it isn’t yet ready to supersede the heavy use machinery required by STM’s parks, sportsgrounds and amenities customers,” says STM’s spokesman.
Where fossil fuels are concerned, the restrictions on the use of red diesel have highlighted that white diesel does not present the competitive savings against petrol once traditionally associated with it, STM points out.
“In fact SCAG’s EFi petrol engines are not just showing increased and impressive efficiency compared with diesel models but offer an associated cost saving.
“Consider this example: top of the range, like-for-like SCAG TurfTiger mowers: the petrol EFi costs £3000 less than the diesel version.”
Ride-on Mowers EMAIL: news@landscapeandamenity.com 21 READER ENQUIRY 57 Tackle more with a Toro. World-class machinery for every job. Toro brings you unparalleled productivity, durability and all-season versatility with its range of grounds machinery. With the Groundsmaster 3300 out-front rotary and LT-F3000 triple flail mowers, the Workman GTX Lithium-Ion utility vehicle and the compact and lightweight LT2240 triple mower, we’ve got you covered. reesinkturfcare.co.uk Get MORE from your turfcare partner this year: More products . More advice . More training . More finance Reesink UK LTD is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Images shown for illustration only. TG2326 LAPU May CS Range_ 183mm x 250mm.indd 1 22/04/2022 09:25
SCAG
Iseki
SCAG machines are available through the STM dealership network.
Reesink Turfcare is exploring how it can offer its customers improvements to efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.
Jon Cole, divisional business manager. says: “Reesink has one machine from Toro which, thanks to its smaller engine and lower price point particularly appeals to contractors tending parks and sportsgrounds, as well as one which helps with different ways of cutting.
“We’ve noticed an increased awareness in running costs and environmental impact in new machinery choices and the LT2240 goes a long way in addressing those two specific things.
“Toro is always conscious of customer concerns when it comes to product design and that was especially evident in the redesign of the CT2240. The resulting LT2240 cylinder mower weighs less which has in turn reduces the machine’s fuel consumption by 41%.
“In addition, the redesign includes an engine adjustment to bring it below 25.5hp meaning it does not need a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). This simple adjustment keeps the purchase price lower and with the option of upgrading from 20cm to 25cm cutting units, ensures its performance remains high.
“The Groundsmaster 3200 out-front rotary mower brings different, but equally as welcome, advantages to customers in these sectors with its versatility to
cope with the upshot of reduced mowing cycles and give yearround productivity.
“Running costs and sustainability will be constant customer concerns for some time. But Toro, as it always has done, is always looking at further ways to solve those challenges.”
Latest addition to the range of ride-ons from Kubota is the Centre Collect Front Mower (CCFM). The CCFM is the inaugural unit from the Kubota Gianni Ferrari S.R.L division, created in July 2022 following the announcement of the incorporation of Officine BIEFFEBI (BFB), and its subsidiary Gianni Ferrari (GF), into Kubota Holdings B.V.
At the heart of the CCFM is a 25 or 50hp three-cylinder diesel engine and hydrostatic transmission. The patented HTC hydrostatic traction control device minimises surface damage, eliminates skidding traditionally caused by the hauling effect and guarantees permanent four-wheel traction, even when working on slopes or rough ground.
The ‘floating’ out-front mower deck conforms to undulations in the ground and features twin, retractable anti-collision blades to deliver a precision cut at all times.
Available with 1.26 or 1.30m cutting widths, the height of cut can be quickly and easily adjusted via a spring lever located on the upper part of the deck. A high-capacity turbine then ensures efficient collection of the clippings into the 600 or 800 litre collector with hydraulic high-tip function.
An easy-access platform, adjustable suspension seat and steering column, power steering and an easy-to-read dashboard enhance usability and performance, while LED front lights and guards come as standard for optimal safety.
Ride-on Mowers 22 MARCH 2023 www.landscapeandamenity.com INTRODUCING THE READY TO BE AMAZED? BOOK A FREE DEMO TODAY! CALL US on +44 (0)1933 652 235 trimaxmowers.co.uk // READER ENQUIRY 58 READER ENQUIRY 59 METRAC H75 • Stage 5 Perkins engine • Four steering modes for soil protection & stability • Super quiet comfort cab • All round versatility Simon Richard Ltd, Crown Tailrig, Bonchester Bridge, Hawick, TD9 8RA Tel: 01450 860774 Fax: 01450 860772 mail@simon-richard.co.uk www.slopemower.co.uk The universal machine for all seasons
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Etesia
Commenting on its debut, Kubota’s Ground Care Product Manager Phil Catley, said “The CCFM market has been growing steadily in the UK for the last few years and this new CCFM from Kubota will work well alongside our very successful F Series range of out-front rear discharge mowers.
Etesia UK has recently added two new mowers to its ride-on rotary range.
The new Etesia Hydro 124 boasts all the features of the popular Hydro 100 but has a larger 124cm cutting deck.
An 18hp twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine and larger 16-litre tank give more power and range and its modern hydrostatic drive
transmission has a differential lock for better driveability and greater safety. The cutting deck with rear central ejection combined with two counterrotating blades, the high clearance bridge and the large box allow mowing and collection in all weathers.
A 500-litre grassbox can be emptied in seconds thanks to its hydraulic pump.
The chassis is fully treated for corrosion protection and can withstand the effects of the weather in harsh working conditions. The cutting deck is cast in a single piece of 1cm thick aluminium, for extreme strength.
A range of accessories can be specified for winter work and
for cutting long grass. For long, rough grass areas, the Hydro 80 MKHPF ride-on mower combines the working comfort of a Hydro 80 with the mowing power of the ATTILA SKD brushcutter.
The MKHPF can mow in any weather and any terrain. It boasts four cutting heights from 50 to 92 mm, while its short turning radius makes it ideal for small areas or heavily wooded fields.
Built with the operator in mind the MKHPF is powered by a 16hp Kawasaki engine and features hydrostatic transmission with differential lock
Proven itself in the Hydro 80 models, the chassis features a bumper which has been
reinforced and adapted for mowing through even the tallest grass.
This robustness is also apparent in the Hydro’s mastershock impact resistant mowing deck. Steel reinforcements on both sides allow for a side opening for easy cleaning of the interior of the housing and for sharpening the blades. It is also corrosion resistant.
The MKHPF offers the possibility to add accessories for spreading, scarifying, and clearing snow.
Going electric Electric and hybrid mowers are big news in the golf and fine turf market, with the benefits of zero emissions and quiet running
encouraging many turf managers to at least consider them in their future plans. For commercial mowing, the applications where manoeuvrability and nimbleness are the most important quality show the greatest promise so far, with battery zero turns filling an important niche.
EGO Power Plus has added two new ride-on battery mowers to its range, following the introduction of the Z6 in 2022.
The ZT4200E-S – is designed to drive like a car and turn like a zero-turn ride-on mower with its innovative steering wheel system whilst the ZT5200E-L offers a larger three-blade option.
Vince Brauns, Group Product Manager at EGO, sys: “We are so delighted with the success of our first zero-turn ride-on mower that we are now introducing two more to the range. While the two mowers share many of the same features as the first Z6, including the option of three driving modes and versatile blade speeds, we wanted to ensure that the range was more accessible to a wider demographic of operators.
“By introducing a steering wheel model, we are opening up the zero-turn ride-on platform to users who would prefer that mechanism to a lap bar. We have also added some usability features such as putting the battery level gauge in a better line of sight and improved comfort through an air-ride seat, USB connection, and cruise control.”
Primarily a side discharge mower, the ZT4200E-S can also mulch and collect with the aid of additional kits. It also features four blade speeds and three driving modes for fast cutting efficiency, whilst maintaining a run time of up to 2.5 acres on a single charge.
It is compatible with all EGO batteries and uses the company’s Peak Power technology which combines the power of up to six EGO batteries for longer run
German-engineered for that perfect cut
Mow Scarify Collect Mulch Roll
time and efficient power draw to offer the equivalent of a 22hp petrol engine.
The 1.32m cut ZT5200E-L is a three-blade mower featuring a fabricated deck and larger wheels to support the additional weight. The zero-turn lap bar steering system is designed to provide easy access to the machine as well as unobstructed views of the working area.
Both mowers are sold as a kit with the CHV1600E 1600W Charger, capable of charging six 10Ah batteries in as little as three hours.
Cramer specialises in battery powered outdoor power equipment and is targeting the commercial mowing sector with the 82ZT132 zero turn mower.
Using an 82V 16kWh lithiumion battery pack, the ZT132 can cover up to four hectares (five hours of mowing) on one charge. Charge time to 100% is 10-12 hours.
The mower also features an electrical/mechanical attachment point for use with a range of implements.
Twin drive levers control separate wheel motors for the ability to turn on the spot, and there are two variable speeds up to 16kph for high productivity.
Triple 1.5kw motors power the 1.32m heavy duty fabricated three-blade steel cutting deck; foot pedal adjustment gives cutting heights from 25-150mm. Mulching is standard, with optional side discharge kit.
A high driving position and suspension seat offers operator comfort, and there is an integrated LED light for use when cutting under trees or in low light conditions; a folding ROPS frame increases safety on sloping land.
Cramer is available in the UK through Handy Distribution.
Wet or dry grass, long or short, collect or mulch, the PH 1250 and PH 1500 models take it all in their stride. And it’s that flexibility that sets the Profihopper apart from the crowd.
The sharpened wing blades on the horizontal SmartCut rotor cleanly cut and shred the grass before conveying it via the cross auger on to that unique second vertical auger to be packed into the collection hopper - meaning less time emptying and more time mowing. To add to that versatility, the sward is rolled after cutting and scarifying comes as standard.
The more than adequate power is provided by engines that are already Stage V Exhaust emission compliant and require no AdBlue.
Don’t compromise - choose the machine that comes with more compaction built-in for maximum work rates and less emptying.
Contact the Amazone Team on: 01302 755 725.
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Groundkeeper HorseHopper Salt spreader Profihopper 1250
www.amazone.co.uk
The two augers provide blockagefree collection and maximum compaction
Cramer
The Ariens Zenith E is a fully commercial electric zero turn, which features four FusionCore lithium-ion batteries offering 5.5 hours of continuous cutting on one charge, with a ‘charge to full’ time of fi ve to 12 hours.
It uses a brushless electric drive motor coupled with dual reduction planetary gearbox to offer the same driving experience as a petrol commercial zero turn.
A 10-gauge steel deck with 14cm depth offers improved airflow for high cutting performance; it is available in
a choice of withs from 1.221.52m, with rear and side discharge options.
When Continental Landscapes was awarded the Cemetery Maintenance Contract for Welwyn and Hatfield Borough Council, there was a commitment made to reduce carbon emissions, supporting the Council’s aim to provide sustainable services.
The contractor took this opportunity to introduce a fully battery-operated inventory, which included the Ariens Zenith E zero turn ride on mower.
As well as reducing emissions the Zenith E was a perfect choice to suit the surroundings, says the company; the reduced noise levels allow grass cutting operations to take place with minimal disturbance for visitors, a key consideration when working in this environment.
“As well as being less intrusive, the Zenith E is also easy to use.
“Our operator has remarked that the machine has superior manoeuvrability, essential when working around the gravestones and memorials.
“This means that the machine can be operated in areas that were inaccessible for our previous ride-on machine, improving efficiencies,” explains Continental Landscapes Estelle Munroe.
“Our operative also noted that the machine was very comfortable to ride and observed that cutting standards achieved were excellent; it produces a high-quality fi nish, even during the Autumn.”
Ventrac offers ultimate versatility
The Ventrac all-terrain compact tractor offers a high level of mowing versatility with its range of attachments, allowing use on fine turf, golf course rough, intermediate length grass, motorway embankments or really tough areas such as woodland margins or scrub.
There’s a choice of nine mowing heads: four different rotary decks, four fl ail decks and a triple cylinder reel mower.
The rotary decks include the 1.83m MU720 rear discharge roller deck, the MK960 2.41m wide area rear discharge roller deck, the MJ840 2.11m Contour deck ideal for undulations on golf courses and the HQ682 1.73m
Tough Cut deck for removing brush, gorse, brambles and
small saplings in overgrown areas. The two flail mowers, the Fine Cut and Fast Cut are both available in two cutting widths: 1.42 and 1.83m.
The Fine Cut flails are equipped with scoop knives and will achieve a quality cut with a more fi nished look on grassy material that gets mowed three to eight times per year.
The Fast Cut Flail features Y-shaped knives and is for a dense or brush- type material application.
The Fast Cut is a good choice for areas of overgrown brush that do not require regular mowing, but where you still want a better fi nish result than a typical rotary rough-cut mower. The fi nal mowing head is the MR740 1.88m triple reel mower, designed to be the ultimate trim and surround mower.
With variable speed hydraulics, standard back lapping valves and offset capability, the MR740 includes many features to ensure superior, lowmaintenance powered by the all-wheel performance.
The 25hp Ventrac can climb slopes of 30deg safely and the attachments can be changed in less than a minute due to its mount system.
• Strong, robust, performs on difficult terrain
• 2wd & 4wd models
• 95cm & 110cm cutting widths
• A superior alternative to conventional rotary mowers
THE PROFESSIONAL RIDE-ON FLAIL MOWER BOOK YOUR DEMONSTRATION NOW!
Ride-on Mowers 24 MARCH 2023 www.landscapeandamenity.com
Regent Yard, Whitewalls Industrial Estate, Colne, Lancashire, BB8 8LJ Tel. 01282 856819 Email. sales@psdgroundscare.com Web. www.psdgroundscare.com Option of Y-Flails or Hammer Flails Scan to watch video Stella Racoon advert.indd 1 28/02/2023 15:08 READER ENQUIRY 61 READER ENQUIRY 62 LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS: WHY WOULDN’T YOU? Free-up time and accomplish more. Tel: +44 (0) 1284 827540 email: info@priceturfcare.com web: www.priceturfcare.com RATED FOR OVERTHIRTY DIFFERENT VENTRAC ATTACHMENTS THIRTYDEGREESLOPES @ FACEBOOK.COM/PRICETURFCARE INSTAGRAM.COM/PRICETURFCARE @PRICETURFCARE.COM FACEBOOK.COM/PRICETURFCARE INSTAGRAM.COM/PRICETURFCARE @PRICETURFCARE.COM FACEBOOK.COM/PRICETURFCARE INSTAGRAM.COM/PRICETURFCARE IT’S A NO-BRAINER; see for yourself and call us today on 01284 827540 for a demonstration Over 25 attachments, the ability to work in the wet and safely on 300 slopes, a light footprint, and superb manoeuvrability, so why wouldn’t you purchase the NEW Ventrac 4520 compact tractor? LAPU quarter 89x130mm.indd 1 24/02/2022 14:26
Ventrac
Ariens
