The decision to construct a new pivot isn’t simply another investment for a farmer. It’s a step that can change his entire farm. At Agrico, the process begins a long time before any steel arrives on the farm.
Every step is carefully considered and managed before design and establishment so that the farmer can irrigate with confidence. “We involve the farmers with the planning from the very beginning,” says Theo van Staden from Agrico’s Nylstroom branch.
From order to design
“The process always begins with the farmer,” says Theo.
“When he decides to instal an Agrico pivot, he contacts his nearest branch and discusses the system with a designer. The designer doesn’t just consider the farmer’s needs but also investigates the available water and power sources. Based on this, Agrico designs an irrigation system that will function optimally in the specific situation.”
Once the design is complete, Agrico’s first job is to pen out the centre and mark out precisely where it’s centre point must be before construction can begin – and then it’s the farmer’s turn.
“We first measure it exactly and the farmer, in the meantime, must prepare a cement slab where the pivot’s centre can stand. That ensures everything is set up correctly and that the towers are stable and level.”
Installing the pivot
Theo explains that the physical construction of the pivot is a detailed, but relatively quick process. In theory, a tower can be built in a day, but the process doesn’t really work like this.
When the team arrives on the farm with a truck, the entire pivot is packed out on the ground and as much as possible of it is then constructed. After that, the pivot is lifted from one side with a crane truck.
“We always say that we ‘bend’ the pivot,” Theo explains. Only then is the pivot picked up, the legs and wheels are assembled and the cantilever built. And at the very end we hook the tower to the centre.”
The process is well orchestrated so that the system can be set up as quickly and effectively as possible. As soon as the structure is standing, Agrico sends a technician to ensure that the wiring is installed correctly. Lastly, the completed pivot pressure-tested – with the Agrico team nearby to correct any errors so that the system can function perfectly.
Necessity of technical knowledge and planning
Theo says the key to success isn’t necessarily the quality of a product, but comprehensive preparation and planning. “Each system is designed for the specific farm and tailor-made according to the available water and energy, as well as the farmer’s goals.” We collaborate with the farmer from the very beginning to the end of the project to ensure that the system is not only functional, but also profitable and dependable.
This approach supersedes the reality of remote areas, long distances, limited electricity and water, and limited stock.
Stock and quick response
Few things are as important for good after-sales service as the necessary stock and spare parts on branch level. Theo says the Nylstroom branch has parts for a total of 14 towers in stock.
“That means we can react quickly, from the dispatchment of a single part to the installation of an entire pivot, without delay. This is an excellent advantage for farmers who farm in remote areas and don’t have time to waste.”
This quick reaction is especially important in emergencies. Theo shares an example: “We received a call from a farmer at nine o’clock in the morning who had accidentally hit his pivot with his tractor. Our team was already on their way across the border that same afternoon to start with the repair work. That shows that we regard our farmers’ production as a priority and how dedicated we are to delivering quick emergency services.”
The value of inhouse production
The quality of galvanising is a key aspect of any pivot’s reliability. All Agrico’s pipes are galvanised internally and guaranteed to have a galvanised layer of at least 100 microns. That means that the pipes of an Agrico pivot last at least 1,4 times as long as pipes galvanised according to industry standards.
“We are the only pivot company in the country that galvanises steel inhouse, and therefore we have absolute control over the quality of the sinking. This control over quality means that the pivots last longer and require less maintenance. Farmers can be certain that they’re getting a stable and durable system that can even survive challenges such as extreme climate and terrain challenges.”
‘Fast, effective and reliable’
Agrico’s value for farmers isn’t limited to products, but also the accompanying service and commitment. Agrico doesn’t only offer machinery to farmers in rural areas but a partnership that ensures that there are stable and profitable.
“We want farmers to know that when they order a system, they don’t only receive a piece of machinery, but also a team that supports them: fast, effective and reliable,” says Theo.
Visit Agrico’s website for more information.
