Grainswest Tech 2021

Tech 2021 grainswest.com 19 GRAIN CART EFFICIENCY BOOST Brandt’s XT-Series carts are the latest addition to the company’s grain-handling lineup and promise better performance made possible by an updated tank design and new auger configuration. “Our product development process starts from the ground up, with focus groups from around North America and sometimes overseas, as well,” said Sheldon Gerspacher, Brandt’s Regina, SK, vice-president of sales for agriculture. “For the XT-series GrainCart, we asked what innovations farmers would like to make the harvest process more productive. They had tremendous input on the final design. It was truly made with the farmer in mind.” Given that harvest occurs in a tight window, farmers stressed the need for greater efficiency. The company responded with new GrainCart features such as forward and side reach for its discharge auger. As the grain cart is an intermediary between the combine and the semi, its use creates certain handling difficulties. Grain cart augers are typically orientated well behind the tractor cab, making the operator look awkwardly behind them while unloading into a trailer. The XT auger spout reaches far enough forward that it places the spout in line with the side of the tractor cab so it is easier to see while operating the tractor. The auger also reaches away from the side of the cart so that it can be placed a comfortable distance away from the semi-trailer without becoming a safety hazard. “This product enhances productivity and reduces customer fatigue during those long days of harvest,” said Gerspacher. When a switch between crops requires a total clean out of the cart, its tank design makes the process easy. This is done with improved grain flow to the auger sump created by greater tank slope angles and a more direct grain-flow path free of obstructions and hang-up points. The grain cart also features a ground-level access door that makes it simple and safe to perform the final clean out. The product went on the market in fall of 2020, and sales have been strong. “Because the XT-Series GrainCart was designed by the customer, for the customer, it has gained acceptance quickly, as it addresses real issues that farmers face during the harvest season,” said Gerspacher. PORTABLE PLANT SENSOR “It really provides you a snapshot in the lifecycle of a plant.” — Justin Prickel