TECHNICALLY SPEAKING
Advanced Features in New Mower Technology
Q
uality of cut is probably one of the most desirable needs to provide optimum conditions on our putting surfaces. At this time the, major manufacturers of golf turf equipment have answered with their various solutions to the next generation of greens mowers. All of them now include hybrid technology in their line-ups. The gap in quality between a walker mower and a riding mower has significantly narrowed or is becoming nonexistent. These advancements are welcomed with our recently strained budgets where we are expected to do more with less. The innovations are focused on quality of cut, user friendly operation, ease of maintenance and being greener for the environment.
Quality of Cut With the hybrid technology, electric motors spin the cutting reels. The lack of hydraulics minimizes the potential for leaks on the turf. Hydraulic leaks from riding triplexes mowers will be a thing of the past. The frequency of clip is consistent regardless of the ground speed or the load in your bucket, which is beneficial when performing operations such as verti-cutting. The updated attach points and/or suspensions aid in keeping the cutting units level to prevent unsightly waves in the turf or damage from clean-up passes. Better contour following capability aid with mowing undulations and prevent side-to-side scrubbing of the putting surface. In some cases, tires have been redesigned to deliver uniform loading across the entire cross-section to eliminate visible tire tracks.
Greener Operation Energy efficient hybrid claims to save fuel usage up to 30%. Reduced noise levels will allow the maintenance crew to start mowing greens earlier without bothering the neighbours. Tee off times can be maintained as early as possible to maximize play.
User Friendly Armrests with controls keep necessary levers within close reach. Ergonomic design ensures comfort for operators during repeated use of equipment. Some models have faster transport speeds to help stay ahead of golfers.
Ease of Maintenance Cutting units are easier to access than ever before and can be easily removed and adjusted. Switching on-the-fly due to an unexpected breakdown can be done quicker than the older generation models. A single operator can go from cutting greens at 1/8" to cutting a fairway at 1/2" in just a few minutes.
What’s next? Robotic operator-free mowers are already becoming available. How long will it be before you have one in your barn? The future is near… ■ Jim Flett, B.Sc. (Agronomy), AGS ® Golf Course Superintendent Muskoka Lakes Golf & Country Club Phone: (705) 765-3165 Email: jflett@mlgcc.com
P.O. Box 277, 890 Fairground Road, Langton, On , N0E 1G0
mastersturf@hughes.net
26 Green is Beautiful • Summer 2011