At Agritechnica 2023, Horsch, the renowned German machinery manufacturer, unveiled its latest innovation in the field of agriculture – the Horsch Leeb Xeric 14FS pneumatic fertilizer spreader. This state-of-the-art machine boasts a remarkable working width of 48 meters and a hopper capacity of 14 cubic meters, making it a game-changer in the industry.
The Horsch Leeb Xeric 14FS is the result of a close collaboration between Horsch and Leeb, which began in 2011 with the establishment of Horsch Leeb Application Systems GmbH. Built in Horsch’s sprayer factory, this pneumatic fertilizer spreader incorporates cutting-edge technology to revolutionize the way farmers distribute fertilizers.
One of the standout features of the Horsch Leeb Xeric 14FS is its ability to operate with 12 sections, each fed by a separate auger. These augers have their own hydraulic motor, which can be independently adjusted in speed. This allows farmers to dose different sections differently, ensuring precise and efficient distribution of fertilizers. Moreover, the control system of the augers also corrects any over- or under-dosing that may occur during sharp turns, further enhancing accuracy.
To cater to the diverse needs of farmers, the Horsch Leeb Xeric 14FS offers two types of augers with different pitches. This flexibility allows users to work with various dosages or types of granules, ensuring optimal results for different crops and soil conditions. Additionally, Horsch has prioritized safety and convenience by incorporating a staircase with a large platform at the back of the machine, making it easier and safer to replace the augers.
While the Horsch Leeb Xeric 14FS made its debut with an impressive working width of 48 meters, the manufacturer has hinted at the possibility of smaller variants following the same concept. As a spokesperson for Horsch stated, “We always start developing a new concept with a large machine. If something works well on a large machine, it will also work on a smaller variant. Scaling down is easier than scaling up.” This suggests that farmers with smaller fields may also benefit from this groundbreaking technology in the future.
The Horsch Leeb Xeric 14FS is mounted on a steered tandem and equipped with BKT IF 650/85R42 tires, ensuring stability and maneuverability in the field. The machine’s hydraulic system relies on a PTO-driven pump for the blower and feed auger, while the LS connection of the tractor is utilized for the dosing system’s augers. It is essential for the tractor to deliver 140 liters per minute to ensure optimal performance.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Horsch Leeb Xeric 14FS pneumatic fertilizer spreader at Agritechnica 2023 marks a significant advancement in agricultural technology. With its impressive working width, precise dosing capabilities, and emphasis on safety and convenience, this machine has the potential to revolutionize fertilizer distribution and enhance efficiency in farming practices. Farmers can look forward to improved productivity and optimized crop yields with the adoption of this innovative solution.