Keenan is the latest to launch a high capacity self-propelled feeder mixer wagon, the MechFibre 345SP.
With the original Richard Keenan company now taken over by Altech, they have teamed up with Italian manufacturer Storti to build the chassis, running gear and loading arm. All the Irish based Altech has left to do is bolt its Mechfibre mixing barrel on the rear.
Storti has used its own mechanical transmission that their designers claim can reduce fuel consumption by up to 25% by directing the full available power to the mixer.
A hydrostatic motor gives the operator inching control when loading at the clamp and feeding out in the shed.
The engine is a four-cylinder, 4.5-litre Iveco FPT offering 125kW (170hp), together with an AdBlue tank to meet Tier 4 Final US/Euro Stage IV emissions rules.
Oil changes are less frequent due to the mechanical system, with 1,000-hours easily achievable.
Hydro-pneumatic suspension is only on the front wheels for a smoother ride, while a 40kph top speed is available in the Plus models and all specs get stability control as standard.
Available in 16 and 20cu.m, the Mechfibre system is part of Keenan’s trailed mixers and offers discharge from either side, while weigh cells are standard on both models, too.
The loading arm can reach a height of 4.5m and descends when the operator moves the proportional joystick in the cab. The spinning reel has 84 blades; 42 straight and 42 curved.
For longer material such as hay, the reel spins in the opposite direction – similar to a forager pick up reel – flicking the material over rather than under to prevent the longer fibres getting jammed underneath.
