CPM1000 Centre Pivot Manager

The Knuckey Centre Pivot Manager (CPM) is an advanced piece of agricultural equipment designed to maintain and restore centre pivot tracks efficiently. It incorporates the technology used in the larger Knuckey Controlled Traffic Manager but is specifically adapted for managing the unique challenges of centre-pivot irrigation tracks.

How the Centre Pivot Manager Works:

• Filling: The CPM 1000 starts by filling the ruts and depressions in the tracks to ensure a level base.
• Compacting: Once the tracks are filled, the machine compacts the soil to stabilise the filled areas, preventing them from settling unevenly.
• Levelling: After compacting, the system levels the surface to ensure it is uniformly flat.
• Final Compacting: A second round of compacting is performed to ensure the tracks are firm and durable, ready to withstand the weight and movement of the pivot system.

Special Features of the Centre Pivot Manager:

• Large 24-inch Cutting Discs: These discs are designed to handle both gentle and aggressive turns of the inner pivots, aiding in the cutting and levelling process with precision.
• Efficiency: The 4-part process is completed in a single run, which saves time and labour by streamlining the track restoration process.
• Outcome: The result is a centre pivot track that is full, flat, and compacted, enhancing the operational efficiency and longevity of the pivot irrigation system.

This equipment is particularly valuable for farms using pivot irrigation systems, as it helps maintain optimal functionality of the irrigation system and prevents potential issues related to uneven or degraded tracks. Speak to one of our specialists today to learn more. 

Let’s dive into the process a little bit more. 

The Knuckey 4-Part Process for Centre Pivot Track Restoration

Step 1: Filling the Track

• Action: Utilises two heavy-duty discs to move soil back into the track depressions and ruts.
• Purpose: This initial step ensures that all significant gaps and uneven areas are adequately filled with soil to create a uniform base for subsequent compaction.

Step 2: Compacting the Track

• Equipment: Employs two heavy 460mm diameter x 30mm thick steel sheepsfoot rollers.
• Action: These rollers perform superior first-stage compaction.
• Purpose: The goal here is to compact the freshly filled soil, reduce air pockets, and stabilise the soil structure to support the weight of the pivot.

Step 3: Levelling the Track

• Equipment: Features six adjustable 18-inch discs.
• Action: These discs are used to further level the track surface and fill any remaining minor tine furrows.
• Purpose: This step ensures the track is perfectly flat and even, facilitating smoother movement of the pivot.

Step 4: Finishing the Track

• Equipment: Includes an adjustable cage roller.
• Action: This roller provides the final levelling and compacting.
• Purpose: It finishes the process by ensuring the track surface is not only flat but also compacted to the right density, which prevents future track deformities and provides a durable path for the pivot to travel on

FAQs

How Does the EPDM Rubber Torsion System Benefit the Centre Pivot Manager’s Operation?

The EPDM rubber torsion system on the discs and compaction roller enhances breakout capabilities. This system allows the discs to adapt to varying soil conditions by flexing, which minimises wear and tear and maintains consistent soil engagement without damaging the track structure.

What Is the Purpose of the Heavy-Duty Discs in the Centre Pivot Manager?

The Centre Pivot Manager uses four heavy-duty discs specifically designed to return soil to the track effectively. These discs handle the primary task of moving and redistributing soil to fill in ruts and depressions, ensuring the track bed is properly prepared for subsequent compaction stages.

How Do the Adjustable Height Gauge Wheels Improve the Centre Pivot Manager’s Performance?

Adjustable height gauge wheels play a crucial role in maintaining consistent depth control during operation. By adjusting the wheels, operators can ensure that the equipment works at an optimal depth according to the soil conditions and track requirements, promoting uniform track maintenance.

What Advantages Does the Floating Top Link Provide When Using the Centre Pivot Manager on Undulating Ground?

The floating top link is a critical feature that allows the Centre Pivot Manager from Knuckeys to operate effectively on undulating ground. It helps maintain consistent contact with the soil by allowing the equipment to adjust to changes in terrain height, which prevents skipping and ensures thorough track restoration.

How Does the Maintenance-Free Hub Design Benefit the Overall Maintenance of the Centre Pivot Manager?

Maintenance-free hubs are a significant advantage, as they reduce the routine maintenance requirements for the Centre Pivot Manager. These hubs are designed to withstand the rigours of fieldwork without the need for regular lubrication or adjustments, enhancing the reliability and reducing the downtime associated with maintenance.