|
Dryland Crops
Wide Blade Sweep Plow
(5' to 7' V-blades)
Overview: Often generically called “Noble blades” due to
the Canadian manufacturer, these implements are perhaps the ultimate
steel force for weed management. Reinforced, box-beam frames support
a single V-shaped blade per section. Overlapping blades 5' to 12'
wide run 3" to 6" below the surface to cut off roots of any tall
plant, while leaving the weed stems and crop firmly embedded at
the surface. The implement can leave 85 to 95 percent residue on
the surface if operated at least 3" deep.
The blades will kill any tap root but may not disturb shallow-rooted
weeds. Pull-behind mulch treaders will uproot these little weeds.
Recommended use is at a depth 0.5" to 1.0" above the moisture line,
so that weeds will have no moisture to revive them after being severed.
Adjustment is critical, but often left unchecked. The blades must
be level side to side, and turnbuckles must be set to relieve any
pressure between frame-lift cylinders.
Hard-surfaced blades self-sharpen, increasing weed kill and operating
depth consistency while decreasing draft. Avoid running repeatedly
at the same depth to reduce plowpan tendency.
Design Features: The V-base is constructed of
angle iron with its angled edge facing upward. The V-blade is bolted
to the leading edge, its arms only slightly sweeping back on each
side so that the blade wings run at nearly a right angle to the
direction of travel. Welded steel plates create rigid upright standards.
Shear bolts or hydraulic cushioning protect against obstructions.
Model for comparison: 31' folding frame, 5' blades (no mulch
treaders)
Rec. PTO HP: 150
Speed: 5 to 6 mph
List price: $21,660
Width range (all makers/all models): 14.3 to 66.5'
Sources: 60a,
76
Farmers: Berning, Jacobson,
Reeder
Next section
Dryland Tool Index
|
