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Worm Casts Causing You a Problem?

Worm Casts Causing You a Problem?

Earthworms play a vital role in maintaining healthy soil. They continuously move soil, loosening and aerating it, aiding water infiltration. Moreover, the waste products they leave behind during the process of feeding on nutrients provide valuable fertilization.

Despite these benefits, earthworms pose significant challenges for greenkeepers/ turf managers. As they expel waste, small worm casts appear on the soil’s surface. These tiny mounds not only affect ball movement on golf courses but also create an unsightly appearance. During milder months, when worms are more active near the surface, these soil casts can accumulate, resulting in additional work for greenkeepers/ turf managers.

Until 2019, greenkeepers had a straightforward solution to tackle worm casts. However, since the ban on Carbendazim due to its potential toxic effects on the human reproductive system, no clear chemical replacement has emerged.

How Worm Casts Affect Cylinder Mowers

Worm casts are not merely an inconvenience; they cause several issues, particularly when using cylinder mowers.

Due to their wet, sticky nature, worm casts clog mower rollers, eventually causing them to become uneven affecting the height of cut.

Additionally, worm casts cause an abrasive grinding paste to form between the bed knife and cylinder reel. This blunts the cylinders and bed knife so that regular and costly sharpening is required. If the sharpening is not completed the blunt cylinders affect the overall cut quality and presentation of the course. For many greenkeepers, this means their cylinder mowers spend more time in the workshop than out on the course.

While strategies like delaying the cut until the middle of the day to reduce stickiness, brushing the turf prior to cutting, or using an older mower when cast levels are high can help, these are not practical solutions as they add time and expense to the ongoing task of turf maintenance.

Using a Trailed Rotary Mower

Until a solution is developed to control worm casts on turf, one time-saving way of tackling them is to use a rotary mower. Trailed rotary mowers do not encounter the same problems as cylinder mowers, as they have been engineered to perform in a wider range of conditions with unwavering reliability.

Most trailed rotary mowers have 5” diameter smooth rollers which are nearly three times larger than a cylinder mower, providing strength when it’s needed most. These rollers are fitted with scraper wires (either a thin metal wire hugging the roller or a solid steel bar running across the length of the roller) which provides constant pressure across the roller, for keeping it free of debris and worm casts.

Trailed rotary mowers also offer a high spindle speed and airflow, this helps keep the blades clean of worm casts, enhancing cut quality, and reducing maintenance costs. Another consideration is cleaning, which is made easier with a trailed machine as the decks can be folded vertically, providing clear access and eliminating the need to crawl under or bend over the machine.

To witness how a trailed rotary mower performs on your worm casts, contact Trimax at +61 (03) 8361 7868 or visit their website https://trimaxmowers.com.au/book-a-demo/

The “Why” of Trimax Genuine Parts

The “Why” of Trimax Genuine Parts

When it comes to maintenance or repair, choosing genuine parts is the only way to guarantee the performance and life of your mower, explains Robert Todd, European Service Manager for Trimax Mowing Systems.

At a glance, genuine parts and pirate parts may appear to be similar; but scratch the surface and the issue becomes clear.

 

The Case for Genuine Parts

Genuine parts are exactly the same parts used to build the original machines. Years of research, development and testing have gone into them. They are made from high quality materials and in some instances individual parts perform more than one function.

Take the blades on a Trimax mower as an example. Primarily meant to cut grass in diverse types of terrain, they also direct airflow ensuring the cutting chamber remains unobstructed and clippings are well distributed.

Beyond this, Trimax quality control ensures the blades are flawless – they can encounter obstacles like small logs and rocks without shattering and exiting the mower as a deadly piece of shrapnel. Safety and quality are integral parts of the Trimax design, ensuring the whole machine meets or exceeds all regional safety standards.

 

Ongoing Improvement

Continuous improvement is the cornerstone of companies like Trimax. Ensuring the pedigree means always having the latest technology and where possible new advances are designed to fit older models. Customers choosing genuine parts will have the safest, most efficient machines, and access to expert advice from the people who designed and manufactured the parts.

 

The Pirate Way

Pirate part vendors profess to make parts that are “just as good” as the real thing but cost significantly less. Really?

It is impossible for pirate parts to out-perform the original items and cost less because pirate parts are produced as a separate, profit-making exercise.

To maintain profit margins, pirates cut corners, lower specs and alter or delete pesky design details (remember the blades and flails), which might complicate manufacture.

For manufacturers like Trimax, parts are integral to their primary business – producing high quality machines. Parts are not produced as a stand-alone enterprise.

 

Other Factors For Consideration

Aside from the physical design and cost, there are some other important elements to consider before deciding between genuine or pirate parts.

  • Safety – genuine parts have been tested to comply with safety regulations for maximum protection of machine and operator. Lower risk, greater peace of mind.
  • Warranty – using non-genuine parts often voids manufacturer warranties, particularly if they go on to cause issues with the rest of the machine.
  • Downtime – genuine parts are guaranteed to fit your machine first time, every time. Maximum uptime and performance.
  • Expertise – only with genuine parts will you get expert advice from the people who designed, tested and manufactured the machine.

 

Where do You Stand?

It’s worth noting that genuine parts often aren’t as expensive as you might expect. Most manufacturers will price their parts competitively, meaning you can still get a good price: and in some cases, genuine parts can even be cheaper than pirate parts! It’s definitely worth checking with the original manufacturer before even considering going for a non-genuine part, as you may be surprised by how little real replacements actually cost, explains Robert Todd

For more information or to find out more about genuine parts, give us a call on +61 383 617 868 or [email protected]

Why is Looking at Total Cost of Ownership Important When Buying Machinery?

Why is Looking at Total Cost of Ownership Important When Buying Machinery?

Investing in machinery is a key consideration for greenkeeping and groundscare professionals. Choosing the model of mower and additional equipment is only one aspect of the decision. You also need to consider the lifetime costs of your new machinery.

Buying machinery is a popular route as it ensures you have full control and ownership of your equipment and is an asset within your business. However, it is vital to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) when making this decision.

Both new and used machinery needs to be assessed with TCO in mind, helping you to budget for the best possible choice for your long-term needs. Let’s explore TCO in more depth and how to calculate the real cost of your new machinery and the potential return on investment it generates.

Productivity

The productivity of your machinery is measured at the rate at which the work is performed. Key variables may include the overall cutting width of the mower, as well as the operating speed. When we talk about operating speed, we mean both the forward speed of the machine, but also if that one machine can do all the work required. For example, would you have to roll the area after it’s been mowed or is there a roller on a mower? Would you need to go around afterwards and blow the cut grass away, or does the mower have a collector?

Speed may also impact the cut quality, depending on the chosen model. The more productive the equipment, the more jobs you can get done, and the more profitable you will be.

Investing in the most up-to-date technological machinery usually delivers higher productivity levels. However, older machines can still deliver high productivity levels and be the correct choice for your work. To find the most suitable machine, we recommend having a demonstration on your grounds.

Fuel

Operational costs are another leading contributor to machinery’s TCO. Older equipment may naturally be less efficient and may use more fuel, so it is important to consider whether an initially lower price is worth the additional cost over time to keep the equipment operational.

If you are looking to purchase an attachment machine, then you should consider the weight. The heavier the attachment, the more power and fuel it will draw from the tractor.

While hybrid and electric technologies are becoming more popular, we are still in the early adoption stage for this machinery. It is also important to consider whether the increased cost is worth the investment.

Maintenance & Servicing

When we talk about maintenance and servicing, we are referring to several things:

What maintenance and/or servicing does the machine require?

Understanding the machines’ maintenance requirements is important as this will affect the TCO. How many grease points does the machine have? How frequently do they need to be greased? How accessible are the grease points?

You may be surprised at the results when you go through all this information. It’s not uncommon to see machines requiring 200+ hours a year of greasing. That’s almost a month in the workshop, unable to be used. And that’s just for greasing, not all the other servicing a machine requires.

How accessible and affordable are spare parts?

Parts and the accessibility of parts should be a key deciding factor when purchasing new machinery. Consider:

  • How frequently will crucial parts and components need to be replaced?
  • How long does each part take to replace?
  • How accessible are the parts?

These are all great questions to ask sellers. Consider, if your machine breaks down, can you get next-day delivery to get you back up and running? Every minute of downtime costs money so understanding the maintenance and parts costs for your new equipment is a vital part of its TCO.

What support and backup is available?

Is there technical support available for your new equipment? It’s worth exploring whether there are useful self-help portals or 24/7 support from specialists in the make and model of your machinery.

To make an informed purchase, you must ask questions about the support available for your new machinery. Ask as many questions as you need to feel confident in your purchase, as making a good purchase decision relies upon having all relevant information.

Purchase Price

The initial cost price is the final key component of any machine’s total cost of ownership. The purchase price you pay is often the main figure considered before investing in new machinery. However, as the above shows, many other factors influence the true and total cost of ownership. Budgeting accordingly is vital to ensure you purchase the right machinery for your needs.

Buying older or second-hand machinery may be appealing because of the lower purchase price. However, this equipment often does not offer additional benefits such as warranties, service plans and reliable parts availability. When considering any machinery, you must thoroughly consider the ongoing maintenance and running costs.

Using Total Cost of Ownership to Inform Your Next Purchase

Taking a more holistic and long-term approach to the total cost of ownership will help ensure you choose the right option for your needs. The same principles apply if you are looking to purchase brand-new equipment or considering second-hand.

It is easy to be swayed by an attractive purchase price but do not forget to look into the specifications of the machinery, consider its efficiency and the costs that may build up over time in fuel, maintenance and running costs.

The total cost of ownership gives you a truer and more reflective picture of the lifetime cost of your machinery, so measuring and comparing different models of different ages and conditions is a vital part of making your final purchase decision.

Trimax Unveils Game-Changing Electric-Drivetrain Development

Trimax Unveils Game-Changing Electric-Drivetrain Development

Trimax Unveils Electric Drivetrain Prototype

Trimax Mowing Systems, a global leader in commercial mowing technology, announces the release of its electric-driven prototype. This prototype uses electric motors for power rather than traditional diesel tractor PTO (power take-off) and sets new standards in efficiency and operational flexibility.

Reduced Diesel Consumption for Sustainable Practices

Trimax’s electric drivetrain prototype achieves a notable reduction in diesel consumption when paired with a conventional diesel tractor. This achievement aligns with industry trends towards sustainable practices, offering both an environmental benefit and a reduction in running costs for customers.

Future-Ready Solutions for Regulatory Compliance

With regulatory changes in motion, Trimax’s electric drivetrain prototype is designed to ensure compliance is met with upcoming electrification mandates. This provides customers with solutions that not only meet their current needs, but also position them for success in a changing regulatory landscape.

A PTO-Free Solution for Enhanced Efficiency

Eliminating the need for Power Take-Off (PTO) enhances the operational flexibility of the mower, allowing customers the freedom to select a wider range of towing equipment. Traditionally, trailed commercial mowers could only be towed behind diesel tractors with a PTO.

Lower Noise Levels for Enhanced Operability

Unlike conventional mowers, Trimax’s electric drivetrain operates at reduced noise levels due to the towing machinery running at a lower RPM. This feature expands its applicability, making it suitable for environments where noise levels are a concern such as golf courses and public spaces.

Inviting Industry Feedback

When asked about the electric drivetrain prototype, CEO Michael Sievwright said “At Trimax, we’ve always championed innovation. This electric drivetrain prototype not only embodies our commitment to sustainability but also signals a transformative direction for our business. We’re excited about this journey and invite our partners and stakeholders to work with us through this development.” Trimax values the insights of industry experts and stakeholders. They encourage visits to their dedicated landing page, where feedback on potential applications of this electrification can be provided. They also encourage any potential test partners to contact them through the form to further shape this technology to suit the needs of customers. This collaborative effort aims to redefine the future of mowing and drive progress in the industry.

For more information, see Electric Drivetrain Development.

Trimax, Only Mower Supplier to Meet New Australian Road Safety Standards

Trimax, Only Mower Supplier to Meet New Australian Road Safety Standards

Did you know?

Customers who purchase machinery from non-ADR approved manufacturers will no longer be able to obtain road registration for their equipment. This means they will not be able to legally transport their machinery on public roads.

This has a large range of negative implications depending on how you use your machinery and in what setting. These implications range from potential legal consequences to safety concerns.

The Legislation Change

As of July 1st, 2023, a new legislation came into effect which mandates that manufacturers must be approved and comply with the Australian Design Rules (ADR) to get their products road registered. Prior to this change, as long as the trailer met the criteria set by the inspector, it could be registered for road use.

This shift in regulations means that customers can now only register their trailed machinery if it originates from a road-type approved manufacturer.

Please be aware that The Road Vehicle Type Approval law changed on the 1st of July 2023, therefore all units purchased before this date do not need to go through this process.

What have we done about this change?

As part of our ongoing commitment to quality and regulatory compliance, we have taken the necessary steps to ensure that Trimax has been accepted as an ADR-approved manufacturer and all our new Pegasus machines can be ordered with a road registration kit which makes the Pegasus fully compliant with the updated legislation.

We’re proud to announce that, thanks to our proactive approach, we are currently the only manufacturer in the commercial mower industry that has met the new legislative requirements. This means you can have confidence in our products, knowing that they meet the highest standards of safety and compliance.

To view our Pegasus mower, click here.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding this legislative change and how it specifically affects your use of our machinery, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer support team [email protected]. Requirements can vary from state to state. For the most up-to-date information, contact your local government authority for information.

Introducing the Trimax Owners & Operators Club

Introducing the Trimax Owners & Operators Club

Proud to support our customers and consider them part of the Trimax family, we’re excited to announce the launch of the Trimax Owners & Operators Club on Facebook.

This exclusive club is for all owners and operators of Trimax Mowing Systems. We aim to build a strong community and support network where you can reach out and speak with others utilising the same kit as you, as well as getting access to handy hints and tips about your mower.

We’re proud of all our products and love hearing customer feedback. We also love seeing our mowers in action and hope the group will become a valuable resource for ideas and inspiration when creating and maintaining amazing green spaces for people to enjoy.

We’re pleased to invite all Trimax owners and operators to sign up as members of this exclusive club and connect with the wider community. See you on the inside!

Trimax Owners & Operators Club | Facebook