We present the new design of the AP-LIFT system that we worked hard on last winter. This simpler, lighter and maintenance-free design eliminates lubrication points and can be completely assembled, disassembled and adjusted with just one 19-24 open-end wrench. This improves ease of use and efficiency and reduces the risk of errors or accidents. The new design of the AP-LIFT system is therefore an important step forward.
No more gambling on good weather
The Geerse family grows potatoes for consumption in both heavy and light soil and have decided not to gamble on good weather in the autumn of 2023. The AP-LIFT system is built on the AMAC ZM2, so this machine can be used in all conditions for years to come.
Chris Geerse has been in the field for over 40 years, part of which as a potato buyer for McCain. He firmly believes that the AP-LIFT system is the solution to many harvesting technical problems that he encounters along the way. Mainly because the potato bed is not pressed by the diabolo rollers, which leads to sagging and clod formation in the clay under wet conditions. Also, foliage can no longer get around the bits and the digging mat remains above the ground, resulting in higher efficiency and less wear.
Only the best quality
Janis de Witte is an award-winning potato grower where quality is number one. That is why he was the first to purchase the AP-LIFT system for his AVR Spirit 8200. This way he can continue harvesting in the most challenging conditions while reducing the risk of damage and preventing congestion during the 2023 harvest season.
- Heavy Clay
The heavy Zeeland sea clay is a difficult soil to cultivate. The clay has a tough, sticky property, which causes problems in the harvesting jaws when harvesting potatoes. This can lead to delays and extra work to clear the harvester. The AP-LIFT technology has been specially developed to solve these problems. The system actively draws in the potato ridges and spreads them over the belt at an adjustable speed, preventing the harvester from sagging.
In addition, the AP-LIFT system does not use diabolo rollers. This is a major advantage compared to traditional harvesting machines. Diabolo rollers can compress the potato ridges, which requires more aggressive cleaning to loosen and clean the potatoes again. With the AP-LIFT technology, the potato ridges are lifted in without compacting, making it easy to get rid of the sieved soil and requiring less cleaning of the potato.
- Hills
Clearing hills is often a challenge for many arable farmers and contractors. Traditional harvesting machines often have difficulty harvesting on slopes. The AP-LIFT system offers a solution here. The system requires 80% less pulling force compared to fixed chisels. This means that it is still possible to harvest uphill in slippery conditions. In addition, lighter tractors can be used, which is beneficial for the soil structure and saves costs on fuel and maintenance of the machines.
The AP-LIFT system is also ideal for offset harvesters that slip sideways into the potato ridges under high traction. Because only one fifth of the pulling force is required, the AP-LIFT system can be used on slopes without any problems. The system actively draws in the potato ridges and spreads them over the belt at an adjustable speed, so that no problems arise when harvesting down a slope.
Insurance of harvesting capacity
Loonbedrijf Wisse, located in Meliskerke, is known for its innovative and dynamic approach. The company specializes in a wide range of services for livestock farming, arable farming and earthmoving, among others. Their expertise and commitment to quality make them a reliable partner for agricultural companies.
An important part of the offer is the potato harvest, for which the machine park includes two Dewulf 3060 potato harvesters and an AVR Puma 4.0. For the 2023 harvest season, one of the Dewulf 3060 harvesters will be equipped with the AP-LIFT system. This will facilitate harvesting in both the Walcheren clay soils and in the northern part of the province, making a reliable and high-quality harvest possible. Loonbedrijf Wisse is committed to continuous improvement, and this expansion is intended to provide their customers with even better service.
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Challenges are opportunities to grow
Various crops are grown at MTS Wisse , including grain, various types of cabbage, root crops, own seed potatoes and approximately 40 hectares of consumption potatoes. Previously, the potatoes were harvested with a well-known Kverneland, but for a few years now a unique 6-wheel AVR Solanum has been used. The necessary adjustments have already been made on this 4-row machine with an independent jaw, but harvesting still does not always run smoothly.
To get rid of all worries this coming season, our AP-LIFT system has been chosen. Also a nice challenge for us since a 4-row machine was planned for next year. But due to great interest, it has been decided to equip a 4-row harvester with the AP-LIFT system this year. Together with MTS Wisse, we are taking a big step in the development of AP-LIFT and demonstrating the potential for 4-row harvesters.
