Grimme has revamped its range of bed formers, toughening up their framework and adding the option of hydraulic reset stone protection.

The three models in each of the BF and BFL series will be available from spring next year to growers of raised bed crops such as potatoes.

All feature a redesigned main frame that should cope better with the extreme forces they are exposed to, especially on stony or heavy soils.

See also: How potato growers are saving costs with combi planters

This has been achieved by increasing the thickness of the steel frame, plus reinforcing the connection points between it and the plough bodies.

There’s also a new three-point linkage that is now compatible with the Cat 3 and 4 lower linkage categories of larger tractors.

Stone protection

An improved “Pro” protection system sees the top shear-bolt replaced by a second hydraulic cylinder, which allows greater upwards deflection of the plough body when it hits a large stone.

This auto-reset setup sees the body return to its working position automatically, saving the need for any operator intervention.

Buyers can also pair Pro protection with a heavy-duty plough body package for machines in the BFL series.

This includes reinforced side plates and plough bodies, which Grimme says gives more stability – even in stony soils – so the sides of the beds are evenly pressed and slightly compacted.

Meanwhile, new soil guiding plates have been developed for the plough bodies of the BF series, designed specifically for medium to heavy soils.

These are attached at the top of the bodies, helping to form a more stable bed and preventing soil from falling off it.