Tasmanian vineyard, Goaty Hill has invested in new technology adding a Silvan Turbo SCRAM vineyard sprayer to its fleet.
Turbo SCRAM technology delivers a range of benefits including better leaf coverage and a reduction in chemical use, according to Silvan.
The company has patented the Silvan Centrifugal Remote Air Model (SCRAM) technology which was developed in conjunction with some of Australia’s major vineyards.
Silvan said SCRAM provided unparalleled vine coverage with water and chemical savings and delivered high velocity air for optimum penetration and even spray coverage into the canopy.
Silvan Australia area manager, Chris Tait said the unit supplied to the Goaty Hill vineyard offered low power needs by reducing the PTO speed required down to 450 revolutions per minute thereby improving fuel consumption by 30 per cent.
“The Silvan Turbo SCRAM is available in optional 2000, 3000 and 4000 litre tank capacities while the trailer’s steel chassis and tandem axle suspension also ensures a smooth ride on often uneven vineyard surfaces.
“With its distinctive wrap around boom assembly fitted with the hydraulically powered centrifugal fans, high air velocity is provided to give optimum spray coverage” Mr Tait said.
The Turbo SCRAM utilises Turbomiser air shear technology which eliminates nozzle wear and produces a narrow droplet spectrum for excellent coverage and more efficient chemical use, Silvan says.
The hydraulic drive fans are mounted out of the vine canopy to eliminate leaf blockages and fruit damage.
The fan motor is designed for low noise and high efficiency and has also been isolated from the air stream to restrict any chance of oil contamination on the vines.
The PTO operated hydraulic power pack is mounted on the trailer hitch for increased maneuverability making it ideal for vineyards with narrow rows or headlands requiring tighter turns.
Silvan has fitted an air delivery tube assembly that is supported by an anodised marine grade aluminium exoskeleton with a wrap around profile which is designed to create air turbulence in the vine canopy to ensure better leaf chemical contact.
Other features include a fully galvanised steel trailer chassis frame and spray boom assembly that is fitted with a hydraulic opening and closing function on rollers allowing for easy row width adjustment.
The 20-hectare Goaty Hill vineyard is located at Kayena in the Tamar Valley and is a partnership of the Maislinger and Nieuwhof families.
The group initially produced wholesale sparkling wine grapes, but since 2006 has concentrated on producing their own label wines.