Husqvarna, Redexim and Spin Turf Machinery have all launched a unit that has been specifically designed to verticut hybrid sports sports surfaces.
All three suppliers believe that a regular, more effective verticutting could postpone the need for a field renovation and, as such, reduce the depreciation of the synthetic turf yarns. This could increase the lifespan of the surface.
A hybrid field renovation by means of a Fieldtopmaker can be demanding on the non-natural components of hybrid sports surfaces, including the yarns and the backing. Synthetic turf yarns can be pulled out of the surface be damaged, thus affecting the longevity of the yarns. And when the Fieldtopmaker gets stuck in a backing-based hybrid surface that has not precisely been installed, it can rip the reinforcement out of the surface.
Earlier this year, Husqvarna was the first to launch their Detatcher. The tool is to be used
The unit is a 150 cm-wide rotating horizontal shaft that has been equipped with 160 tines. Spring tines have been positioned in a spiral shape to cultivate the pitch evenly.
Four adjustable support wheels allow for accurate depth setting.
The unit has a collector volume of 80 litres and can be emptied from the driver’s seat. According to Husqvarna, it only takes approximately 30 minutes to clean a field. The Husqvarna Detatcher can only be fitted to the Husqvarna tool carrier.
Scarivator
Early September, Redexim released their Scarivator. This machine features two horizontal beams with angled spring tines. The beams reciprocate across each other. According to Redexim, the chances that their Scarivator lifts the backing of a backing-based hybrid surface are slim. The tines can be adjusted for angle and depth, thus allowing for different levels of aggressiveness depending on the project or task at hand. The working width is 2,13m and it has a working depth of maximum 35mm. The Scarivator requires a 40 HP tractor.
ZZ-Topper
Spin Turf Machinery has also released a machine that will make a horizontal move while running over a hybrid surface. Curved pins make a fast‑oscillating movement. According to Spin Turf Machinery, in addition to being more effective in removing thatch from a hybrid surface, the oscillating movement also avoids line remaining visible on the field after the cleaning. According to Spin Turf Machinery, the ZZ-Topper is available in a working width of either 1,5 or 2,2m and weighs approximately 475 kg’s. It requires a 26 HP tractor.
Levelling, repairing and aerating at once
GKB has launched its Combislitter, a machine that will level and repair playing damage and aerate the top layer at the same time.
The Combislitter can be seen as the successor to the Topair. According to GKB, the machine is more solid, robust and simple, and is suitable for both natural grass and hybrid fields.
The machine’s weighted frame provides sufficient weight for the machine to function optimally and be adjusted precisely. A bin on top has been specifically designed for adding extra weight if desired.
GKB points out that the machine is more versatile, as the shaft of the Combiseeder can easily be transferred to the Combislitter for fast, less deep aeration.
The machine uses Evolvente blades that have a working depth of up to 15 cm. These are designed to minimise prying in the topsoil. This keeps the topsoil flat. For weed control and also aeration, cutting discs can be mounted.
The Combislitter is available in a working width of 1.6 or 2.0 metres. Optionally, a pressure roller can be chosen as a finishing touch to the aeration.