New solutions from Briggs make irrigation even easier

New R64/2 boom

The Briggs R64/2 boom, which is 64 metres wide and gives a wetted width of up to 90 metres, has been extensively re-engineered to offer even greater strength and durability. In addition it incorporates larger diameter water tubes for better hydraulic performance and has a narrower transport width of just 3.65 metres.

Another important addition is the use of automatic locking catches. When unfolding such a large boom in windy conditions, on side slopes or rough headlands, it can be difficult to hold the boom sections in place and operate the locking mechanism at the same time. 

Under the new system, as each section of boom is swung into place, the locking catch automatically trips to retain the newly extended section. The operator can then set the catch in the fully locked position. The catches are also available as a ‘stand-alone’ option on other booms.

Automatic raingun mounting kit

For situations where a boom cannot be pulled through the far headland of a field, Briggs Irrigation is introducing a new automatic raingun mounting kit. The operator sets an adjustable mechanical timer whilst setting up the boom and once the timer has expired the water is transferred from the raingun back to the boom. The operator therefore no longer needs to return to the boom to manually reset the unit. The device is available on new booms or as a retrofit kit.

Hydraulic lift

Briggs Irrigation booms are used to irrigate tall crops such as maize as well as salad plants, potatoes and other low-level crops. These booms must therefore be raised above the operator’s reach and for 2009 two new hydraulic lift systems are being introduced, mainly for the R64/2 boom.

The first is a ‘low lift’ version that allows the operator to open the boom at a lower,

more manageable height and then hydraulically lift the boom by 600 millimetres to give

greater crop clearance. This gives more tolerance between the crop and the boom as the crop height increases. It also reduces the prospect of damage to the boom from contact with the crop.

The second is a new ‘high lift’ system with three lift heights. This unit offers up to three metres ground clearance.

Both types of tower have a single hydraulic cylinder and telescopic waterfeed for efficiency, while a hydraulic turntable enables the operator to rotate the boom when it is in the raised or lowered position.

12 volt power pack

A further option is a self contained 12 volt power pack, mounted on the boom chassis, for operating the hydraulic boom lift systems or hydraulic turntable. It speeds up deployment of the boom by removing the need to connect hydraulic hoses to the tractor.

Diesel engine pumpset autostart

For several years the facility to monitor and control irrigation hosereels using the Briggs remote mobile phone system has been a popular option on larger farms. Now this facility has been extended to the company’s range of JCB-engined pump units.

The diesel engine pumpset autostart is a cost effective solution that detects water flow to provide reliable, failsafe operation. It avoids travelling back to the pump just to start the engine. When the boom has been run out to its starting position a normal mobile phone is all that’s needed to turn the water on, offering a major reduction in set up times.

Heavy Duty Plastic Suction Strainer

The new strainer is a robust alternative to the wicker basket unit. It is made to replicate the flow characteristics of the wicker basket but is more durable. It is available in three sizes: 4”, 5”, and 6”. The unit bolts to the foot valve.

Briggs Irrigation is exhibiting on Stand No 32 and can be contacted on 01536 260338.

For further information please visit the stand or contact:

John Foster at Media Matters               01473 652195