ProDig Go Lighter, Faster, Stronger with New Push Off Fork Range Irish based machinery manufacturer ProDig Attachments, have just released their newest development ahead of the 2017 silage season, a range of push off forks. Due to customer demand, the company have added a range of push off silage forks to their extensive range of attachments already available which include high tip buckets, shear grabs and forks. ProDig developed the push off fork in 2016 and putting it through extensive testing to ensure it is up to their demanding standards.
Speaking about the new development, sales and finance director Donny Nolan said “there are many benefits of a push off fork such as reduced machine wear, lower fuel consumption and operator comfort, we are excited to release the push off fork and look forward to seeing it working on silage clamps this season”.
Available in five sizes from 8ft (2.5m) up to 12ft (3.6m) the push off fork is designed to suit a variety of machines, from large industrial loaders/teleporters, to tractors 3 point linkage and loaders. The fork can be specified with numerous different reinforced brackets to suit the customers’ machine. New for 2017, ProDig have also developed a combi attachment which will fit both a loader/teleporter and tractor front or rear 3 point linkage.
The push off forks frame is constructed from fine grain, high yield steel throughout, with the bottom tines (40mm x 65mm) being made from Hardox for improved wear resistance. These tines are 1400mm (4.6ft) long and feature replaceable wear tips incorporated to increase durability. ProDig claim that you will never have to replace a tine again with this system. The tines are welded into a hardened steel box section (150x100x10mm) for longevity and to remove any flex during operation. Two heavy duty durable side tines are fitted as standard with the option of an extra side tine if required. Different tine spacing and lengths are available to suit customers’ requirements as well as a round tine option.
Underneath the fork, it is fitted with replaceable hardened cutting-edge wear plates to help protect it during operation while also aiding in strength. Additionally these plates are also welded to each side of the frame for added protection against clamp walls.
A high strength steel gate is fitted to, “push” the grass off the fork, and features laser cut holes incorporated into its design to both reduce weight and increase visibility. The gate also features a sloped spill frame design incorporated on top and a five degree layback to maximise the volume it can push.
Power is supplied by a pair of 70mm bore rams which have a low oil requirement of 80 l/min allowing the fork to be used with smaller machines. The hydraulic system requires one double acting service and is fitted with an equaliser to ensure a uniform push even if the load is not uniform, eliminating the risk of twisting.
Pushing power is delivered by two heavy duty cranked arms made from high strength 20mm steel and further reinforced with 15mm plate for increased reliability and strength. 40mm pins are used on the fully greaseable hinge points which feature replaceable bronze teflon coated bushings for durability.
During operation the gate slides out along the tines and is safely held in place by a hardened steel locking pin which stops it moving backwards when under force. To reduce the impact and strain on the components during operation a pair of soft close rubber buffers are fitted to the rear frame.
The push off fork is finished in the company’s trademark gunmetal grey and green paint scheme and can be fitted with optional safety strobes and work lights for added safety.
This article was take from Agrilands write up on our Push Off Grass Fork written by Darren Bailey, Machinery Correspondent.
