Modernising precision seeding
First up, the new Faya MF is, according to the company, a classic precision seed drill that offers a single-row seeding solution to complement the tried-and-tested Azurit with Delta Row seeding. This new seed drill gives farmers and contractors who require both maximum placement precision and a high area output, a tailor-made solution for sowing row crops, says Lemken. The Faya MF is available now as a pre-series machine, with series production scheduled to begin in 2027. At the heart of this precision seed drill, which will be available in eight-, nine-, or 12-row versions, is a modular frame design with a working width of six metres and a two-section folding mechanism. Depending on the specific crop and the farm’s production methods, this allows a variety of row and spacing combinations to be implemented, ranging from a narrow 45cm to a maximum of 80cm. The system also enables swift conversion between 12x50cm and 8x75cm. This increases the machine’s capacity utilisation and makes it economically attractive for a wide range of crops, from beet to maize.
High-speed precision
For seed singling, Lemken uses an overpressure system housed in robust die-cast aluminium with a wear-free sealing concept, which offers the advantage of reducing energy requirements. Overpressure reliably pushes the seeds towards the singling discs, while a scraper prevents seeds from doubling up. The implement offers three options for controlling the scraper: mechanical control per row, electrical control via the control terminal, and automatic control with grain sensor integration. Overall, this achieves a very high level of placement precision, even at forward speeds of up to 16km/h. The singling discs can be fitted easily and without tools.
The seeding coulter is particularly effective in terms of seed placement. The offset double disc coulter has a particularly small opening angle, a geometry that was originally developed for direct seeding. This reduces soil movement and compaction of the furrow walls, decreases the required tractive power, and ensures precise depth control for even field emergence. Lateral depth control wheels, which can optionally be fitted with scrapers, stabilise the system even further. The seeding coulter can be subjected to a coulter pressure of up to 350kg and can be controlled mechanically, hydraulically or automatically. The Faya MF also features practical 70L row hoppers for seeds, the option of under-root fertilisation via a combination unit, and the Lemken iQblue seed Isobus control system, including automatic width section control and an automatic tramline mechanism.
The new Solitair NT
The Solitair NT has been specially designed for use with conservation tillage systems and enables precise placement with minimal soil disturbance, according to Lemken. This machine offers farmers and contractors the tried-and-tested experience of the South African Equalizer coulter system, which has been successfully used on large farms around the world.
The centrepiece of the six-metre machine is the ProDisc single disc coulter: its 10-degree undercut and seven-degree inclination to the direction of travel ensure reliable soil penetration, low tractive power requirements, and precise sowing. The wide depth control rollers ensure a consistent seed depth, even in variable fields. Up to 340kg coulter pressure can be conveniently adjusted electro-hydraulically or optionally controlled automatically for homogeneous field emergence. The Solitair NT offers maximum flexibility in terms of seed placement options,
Lemken says. Single-shot sowing for up to three components, as well as A-B sowing with a double hopper, allows simultaneous drilling and fertilising, the application of companion and undersown seeds, and the clean separation of different seed components. The optional 500L MultiHub further expands the range of application strategies available: an additional component can be applied either via the seeding coulters or a baffle plate – all with Isobus control via Lemken iQblue drill. Half-side control is possible with all of these methods in order to ensure resource-efficient work.
A row cleaner, which clears organic material out of the way directly in front of the seeding coulter, is a beneficial option for direct drilling to minimise hairpinning. The row cleaner can be moved into an integrated parking position without the need for tools. This makes it quick and easy to adapt to different seeding conditions.