Valuable summer tips to get the best results from your feeding equipment
In hot weather, we protect ourselves from the sun’s rays by using sun screen or looking for shade. But did you know that feeding equipment can also suffer from the heat? No matter how robust a Trioliet is, our equipment will appreciate you taking extra precautions in hot weather as well. Follow the tips below to get the most out of your Trioliet even in the toughest conditions. This checklist will save you unnecessary maintenance costs.
1. Ensure that the knives are sharp on machines with cutting units such as the Triotrac (M),
Triomix, Gigant, silage cutter or Triomaster. A smooth, clean silage wall reduces the risk of
overheating.
2. Use sharp auger knives for an optimal mixture in the feed mixer.
The better the quality of the mixture, the higher the feed intake and the better the health
of your animals.
3. Make sure that the mixing tub is properly empty at the end of the feed turn by running
the augers in the feed mixer at high speed for the last few minutes. This prevents feed
residues from being left behind. You may need to run the PTO shaft at 1000 rpm for this.
Any feed residues that remain in hot weather will get mixed in with the next feed ration
make the mixture less appetising and can already be affected by overheating, which will
reduce feed intake.
4. To avoid overheating and stale feed, do not leave a partial load in the mixer for a long
time.
5. Make sure that the cutting unit is well lubricated. In very hot conditions, the grease will
become liquified more quickly, so more frequent lubrication may be required.
6. Check the oil level in the gearboxes regularly. In hot weather, the oil temperature rises
and it flows more easily, increasing the risk of leaks. Make sure that the oil level is correct
when cold. (COLD level indication on the oil container on the machine)
7. Clean fans and radiators found on the 2 and 3 speed transmissions regularly and
inspect for leaks.
General rules
A. Do not park the machine in direct sunlight when it is not in use.
The reasons for this are:
- It can be harmful for the electronics and wiring
- The weighing system may show a small deviation
- Attaching hydraulic hoses can be hampered by pressure build-up in the hoses.
B. Check self-propelled machinery before use for:
- Cleanliness of all coolers (intercoolers, engine coolers, hydraulic coolers)
- Water level in coolers
- Oil levels
- Repair any leaks immediately
C. Prepare smaller amounts of compound feed and distribute feeding times throughout
the day. This prevents overheating and ensures a tasty meal and good feed intake.
The cows will thank you and will show this through good milk production and animal
health.
It goes without saying that maintaining your feeding equipment properly helps you avoid problems, and therefore save money, as a cattle farmer. Of course, your dealer can also help you prepare the feeding machine for summer. For this, contact your Trioliet dealer. Our Trioliet regional manager can also help you in this regard. You can find this information on our website under the heading 'Sales': https://www.trioliet.com/sales
