On-farm grain separators help overcome barriers to intercropping
© MAG/Emma Gillbard The separation of intercrops is often the biggest limitation to production and marketing, but the design of two on-farm grain separating and cleaning units on show at this year’s Groundswell is proving to be a cost-effective option for growers.
Developed by grain machinery specialist McArthur BDC and equipment manufacturer JK Machinery, the two vibrating sieve cleaner models are specifically designed to separate and clean both bicrops in a single pass.
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The VibroCompact Intercropper, is the latest addition to the range and is designed for farmers looking to process mixed crops at less than 5t/hr.
This model is the smaller version of the firm’s already established VibroMax Intercropper which can separate mixed crops at up to 10t/hr.
Triple sieve separation
Both models are triple decked and equipped with three vibrating sieves, which enables the cleaning and separation of bicrops to a high standard in a single pass, explained managing director of McArthur BDC, John McArthur.
The machines sort grains according to physical size and aerodynamic properties.
Each crop is aspirated to remove impurities on both the inlet and then individually, on the outlet, helping meet premium specifications in a single pass.
“Take a wheat and bean bicrop for example: the top sieves takes out any large impurities and the middle sieve level seperates the wheat from the beans by separating the larger from the smaller grains.
“The wheat then drops onto the bottom sieve which removes the fine admixture. Both crops are then individually aspirated at the outlet, where any light admixture is removed,” explained John.
The compact design of the Intercropper models mean they can be used on a static or mobile system.
Why intercrop?
Intercropping is an increasingly popular option for farmers adopting more regenerative farming techniques as it helps to reduce the need for artificial inputs, at the same time as improving soil health.
“We need to offer cleaning and separating equipment to meet the requirements of farming enterprises of all sizes,” continued John.
“This simple machine removes the post-harvest headache for farmers growing intercrops, and will support reduced growing costs and increased gross margins that intercrops can offer.
“What’s more, the additional £55/ha from the Sustainable Farming Incentive’s IPM3 action supports intercropping’s gross margin”
John predicts a return on investment within three to five years of purchasing the equipment.
Farmer viewpoint: John and Paul Cherry, Hertfordshire
Brothers John and Paul Cherry, founders and hosts of the Groundswell event in Hertfordshire, have invested in the VibroMax Intercropper.
The farming duo recognise the importance of intercropping and the successful post-harvest cleaning equipment that is invaluable to a regenerative farming system.
“Intercropping is the future as it becomes an integral part of regenerative farming. Having a range of cleaning and grading equipment can help farmers make the transition to intercropping by quickly and easily separating different crops, increasing their value post-harvest,” noted John Cherry.
