Although perhaps slightly less well-known in the UK where the Vervaet name
is synonymous with the market-leading sugar beet harvester range, the
Hydro Trike is a very well established and popular machine on the
continent. First introduced for 1991 as a self-propelled slurry
injector, legislation making injection compulsory in the Netherlands
came into force the following year and demand for the Hydro Trike soared
– it become Dutch market leader from 1993. Extensive market research to
find out exactly what contractors wanted out of a machine resulted in
some unique design features key to its unrivalled success and there are
currently over 600 Hydro Trikes out in fields across Europe.
Trike models
The basic chassis is available in two main models – the standard
three-wheel Hydro Trike and the higher-capacity five-wheel Hydro Trike
XL version with an additional axle. The five-wheel XL is available in standard form with three driven axles, or as the 5x5 version with all-wheel-drive.
Engine and transmission
DAF engines have been used since the original prototype and the
current model is powered by a 12.9 litre unit which produces an
impressive 530hp at just 1400pm. When full power isn’t required this is
further reduced to 1250rpm, providing additional fuel savings. Drive is
hydro-mechanical, infinitely variable within two ranges and provides an
indispensible 40kph top speed. Two hydraulic pumps are used to drive a
mechanical rear axle and the front wheel’s own dedicated hydraulic
motor. Additional pumps provide auxiliary hydraulic power for the body.
Maintenance of the machine is straightforward with routine servicing
particularly well thought out. In addition the Hydro Trike XL is fitted
with an automatic lubrication system as standard.
Tyres
Tyre equipment is very generous with a 1000mm wide front tyre and
1050mm rear tyres. Tyre pressures can be altered between field and road
work on-the-move using the central tyre inflation system fitted as
standard. On the XL model the additional axle, fitted with 750mm wide
tyres, can be extended so that each wheel follows a different track
whilst in work. This also gives more stability when working on slopes.
The load on this axle is automatically varied according to weight of the
payload, although this can also be set manually if required. A steering
axle to minimise scuffing, it also features adjustable hydraulic suspension
providing a smooth ride on the road and in field. On the 5x5 version this mid-axle is driven by a self-contained 130hp hydraulic system.
Ground pressure and maneuverability
The combination of
these unique features means that the Hydro Trike XL maintains an even
ground pressure over the full 4.50m width without any overlap making it
very kind on soil structure. It also retains its exceptional
maneuverability, being able to turn on the headland and swing straight
back into the next pass.
Cab
The Hydro Trike models are fitted with an extremely modern and
ergonomic Claas cab which provides exceptional comfort and visibility.
All controls easily fall to hand.
Tri-Control
Vervaet’s own Tri-Control colour touch screen computer takes care of the
machines main functions.
Accuracy when using the Trike to apply products is particularly impressive, with the application rate
controlled automatically by computer. GPS-steering systems can also be used for further levels of
precision. The Tri-Control screen also displays important machine and
spreader data from engine rpm and hydraulic system pressure to implement
settings. It also supplies useful machine monitoring statistics
such as fuel usage and work rate as well as customer or job specific
data which is appreciated by contractors and farmers alike.
Applications
A truly multipurpose machine, the Hydro Trike XL can
be fitted with a 20-tonne manure spreader, 19,000 litre slurry tank and
injector, 25-tonne beet chaser body, 17 cubic metre lime spreader and a
variety of other bespoke equipment. For more information please see the
following pages:
Manure
spreader
Lime spreader
Slurry injector
Beet chaser
Other bodies
Videos
VIDEO
Brochure and further details
For more information please contact Matt Carse on 07825 631377.