EXECUTIVE REPORT
Cutting edge
Alan Guthrie found that new technology was prominent at the recent Saltex grounds care equipment exhibition at the NEC.
More power and longer running times are key user requirements for cordless equipment, and at Saltex several suppliers showed battery powered products claiming to give professional grade performance.
Various battery options are available for Husqvarna’s latest mowers.
Husqvarna showed two pedestrian mowers which are powered in one of two ways: either by two batteries that can be used on other tools in the manufacturer’s cordless range, or by a higher-capacity battery normally
worn by the user in a backpack, but which can be mounted directly on top of the mower deck. The LC55iV (pictured left) is a self-propelled rotary mower and the push-along LB548i has a mulching capability.
Similarly, Stihl’s RMA765V is a twin-blade 63cm-wide rotary mower which can accept the company’s high-specification backpack batteries for longer running times, or the standard 36V batteries through the use of a docking module.
Stihl’s RMA765V mower.
New from Briggs & Stratton is the Vanguard Commercial Battery Pack, a 5kWh system that utilises lithium-ion battery cells in either series or parallel
to increase voltage or amperage. The cells are configured so that, should one fail, the others will still operate. Paul Bramhall, the manufacturer’s Senior Manager, Marketing - Commercial Engines, said that Briggs & Stratton also provides the battery management system to give an integrated solution. The packs can be combined to give power and running times suitable even for military vehicles. A 10kwH version is also in development.
The 5kWh Vanguard Commercial Battery Pack from Briggs & Stratton.
Also on the Briggs & Stratton stand was the CR300 compact concrete crusher from a recently formed business, Dragon Equipment.
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Its narrow 700mm width facilitates entry through doorways and gates, and the jaws are adjustable for different materials. The machine has a Vanguard 400 14hp petrol engine, but Briggs & Stratton are also developing a battery pack for it.
Dragon Equipment’s CR300 crusher.
Demon showed a new version of its electric Tornado Electron pressure washer, now incorporating lithium-ion batteries instead of heavy AGM (absorbed glass mat) ones. The power output can be adjusted to give different performance levels, such as 2,050psi for 40 minutes operation, or 1,100psi for 120 minutes. The battery is Bluetooth- compatible, allowing performance data and battery condition to be monitored remotely.
A new addition to the Camon line-up of grounds care equipment from Tracmaster is the LS52 lawn scarifier, which will be available in the New Year. Designed for the efficient removal of thatch and moss, the machine is powered by a Honda petrol engine and has a 52cm working width. Rubber engine mounts are fitted to reduce vibration and narrow wheels facilitate work operation close to fences and walls.
Demon’s new Tornado Electron.
Uni-power (Universal Engine Power) highlighted its recent appointment as a UK distributor for Kawasaki engines and parts, adding to the already considerable list of brands it offers. MD Phil Brown says the company has built up good stocks from the manufacturers it represents in advance of Brexit, and adds that more requests are being received for products and advice relating to EU Stage V emissions regulations.
Uni-power has added Kawasaki engines to its range.
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