A SPREAD of up to 24m with the latest 12-tonne capacity Xcel 1250 spreader from Hi-Spec is possible as a result of design changes to it.

This popular spreader has been on the go for 10 years, but has recently been given a complete overhaul.

Unique in that it uses a rotary chain and flail system to break up material, which is then spread using a pair of spinning discs. The update include increasing the disc speed which allows it to give an even spread up to 24m, compared to 20m previously.

This reduces wheelings in the field and where Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF) is carried out, will allow it to run on tramlines up to 12m spacing.

The shredding rotor carries 22 heavy duty chains, which in turn carry 12mm Hardox flail heads, carried under a 4mm Hardox hood. This shreds muck to an even consistency for a more even spread.

Also new is an adjustment plate on the shredding rotor hood, which improves the spread pattern via better placement onto the discs.

Other updates include a move to straight body sides and a larger opening towards the rear to prevent material bridging. The material is moved rearward by a new single slat marine grade floor chain design, which incorporates floor slats with closer spacing than the originals.

Individual floor chain tensioners are placed to the front and drive to the chain is via hydraulic motor with overload protection and variable speed adjustment. Drive to the shredding rotor is via a pto drive through heavy duty (200hp) Comer gearboxes.

The rear, hydraulically operated vertical slurry door is used to regulate flow of material to the shredding rotor. Lighter vanes can be specified for low density material, such as chicken compost.

Galvanised steel is used throughout the lower chassis, access ladder, rear hood and slurry door, while the main body is shot blasted and finished with two pack epoxy paint. Standard specification includes 580/70-R38 radial tyres and a commercial axle fitted with hydraulic brakes.

Factory fitted weigh cells can also now be specified, along with a further option of GPS application mapping.

The spreader retails at £32,400.