A
compact self-propelled post driver added to the Bryce Suma range is
designed as a one-man machine to handle fencing operations in the
most challenging locations.
The
new outfit brings together the nimble manoeuvrability and
load-carrying capacity of a tracked vehicle and the renowned Bryce
Powershift heavy-duty post driver, a popular tractor-mounted
implement with a number of patented features.
"This
combination creates a go-anywhere machine with tremendous stability
and traction," notes Jock Bryce of Bryce Suma. "Overall,
it's smaller and more manoeuvrable than a tractor, so I think it will
appeal to contractors and large farms and estates, especially where
they are erecting fences on difficult terrain."
The
Bryce Suma Powershift HD180 is based on a rubber tracked industrial
vehicle built by Canycom Inc, a US manufacturer of heavy duty
carriers and dumpers. As a proven series production vehicle powered
by a 46hp Kubota diesel, operators can expect good reliability and
performance, with parts and service back-up available from
distributor Kattrak International based in Kilwinning, Ayrshire.
"The
vehicle has semi- rather than fully-hydrostatic drive so it can be
moved from post to post with the engine just ticking over, which
eases fuel consumption and keeps the noise down to comfortable
levels," says Jock Bryce. "It also has a reversible seat and
controls, so it can be driven in whichever direction is easiest for
the driver or will give the best balance and traction for the
terrain."
The
post driver delivers an impact force of up to 62 tonnes but its
telescopic mast retracts to an overall height of just 2.9m for moving
from site to site. It is mounted on a 180 degree hydraulic turntable
behind the cab, which not only keeps the outfit compact and with good
weight distribution but also enables the operator to drive posts to
the rear or either side of the machine.
"Together
with hydraulic backshift, sideshift and generous mast angling in two
directions, the slewing action gives the machine tremendous
versatility for post driving, especially in awkward locations,
without having to get the vehicle in just the right position,"
says Jock Bryce. "Being able to swing the mast round is also
useful for shifting weight distribution to keep the vehicle stable
when travelling across steep slopes and to give extra clearance when
having to manoeuvre amongst trees."
Other
practical features include a cradle on the front of the vehicle that
carries up to 40 fence posts or more than half a dozen straining
posts. Optional reels can be fitted on either side of the vehicle to
run out up to 2000m of plain or barbed wire.
"A
lot of my experience as a fencing contractor has gone into this
machine to make it safe and easy to operate," says Jock Bryce. "For
example, the wire reels can be loaded from ground level and both
sides of the mast can be lubricated from one position without having
to clamber on the machine.
"A
rock spike is fitted as standard," he adds, "and because we know
what tools and equipment a fencing contractor uses day to day, we
build in a lockable toolbox and purpose-designed storage for a chain
saw, metal bars, spades, a hammer, tape measure and spirit level."
Along
with the overall concept of the machine, it was this attention to
practical detail that attracted the judges of this year's Royal
Welsh Agricultural Society technical innovation award for "the
machine, implement or device likely to be of most benefit to Welsh
farming".
One
of the judges of the Dr Alban Davies Gold Award, engineering
consultant Peter Redman, said: "We were impressed by the general
all-round build quality and thoughtful design, but in particular the
concept of a tracked, self-propelled machine that provides access
over a wide range of ground conditions.
"We
also liked the integral facility to carry posts and thereby improve
logistics, and the high level of manoeuvrability and precision
positioning of the machine," he added.
Having
won this award in 2006, Jock Bryce is understandably delighted to
receive the accolade again: "It reflects the lengths we go to at
Bryce Suma to build post drivers with practical and innovative
features that make life easier, increase productivity and promote
safety in fencing operations."
