Models

The award-winning Multistream PDS (precision delivery system) is available in 10 models in tow-between, tow-behind or drawbar configurations.  The PDS is designed to deliver granular and / or liquid product and can be split as required. For example, with a four bin model, one of the tanks can be used for liquid nitrogen, two for granular fertiliser and one for seed.  All tanks are designed for either product.

In operation, using the above example of splitting with a DBS precision seeder, the liquid tank can be plumbed to the seeding bar to provide one or two nozzles per DBS module. The nozzles are mounted on the parallelogram and are directed to deliver liquid fertiliser in a pencil stream (under pressure) to the left and right hand sides of the seeding furrow or one nozzle can be used to inject into the furrow behind the digging blade.  The distance from the seed can be altered depending on the type of fertiliser used. For example, trials have shown the desirable distance for dispensing liquid nitrogen is about 65mm from the seed.

A high volume turbo fan running at around 4000rpm is driven by a piston hydramotor. The fan inlet is supplied air which is heated by an oil radiator with an independant relief valve, enabling oil to be returned to the tractor.  Ausplow bench tested several types of fans before choosing the turbo fan and it has proven to be the most efficient design, reducing overall power requirements.

The heavy duty polyethylene tanks are mounted on a double box section chassis and boast Ausplow-designed stainless steel lids for easy opening and quick locking. A 200mm (8in) swingaway auger provides easy filling of the tanks.  Polyethylene tanks display low surface friction properties and offer excellent product flow to metering bodies.

One of the other significant features of the Multistream PDS is the Ausplow-designed steerable axle which allows the Multistream to perfectly track the DBS bar. All models can also be optioned with 3 metre wheel centres or offset axles on tow behind models. 

Metering Unit

The metering system is hydraulically controlled with manual override and each bin is equipped with an individual hydramotor.  In the case of liquid, a positive displacement pump is fitted with a corkscrew rotor shaft and stator.  The seed and fertiliser metering units are made from marine grade stainless steel. Each unit allows distribution of product into either air stream at positive preset quantities of 0%, 25%, 33%, 50%, 67%, 75% and 100% to achieve desired blending rates. Low wear plastic staggered tooth metering wheels are hydraulically driven and allow seeding rates from as low as 3kg/ha of seed and up to 250kg/ha of fertiliser. A unique multi-positioned stainless steel metering flap is simple to adjust and eliminates the need for separate metering wheels or bolt-in restrictors. Fully opening the flap also allows for a simple and thorough bin cleanout.

Controller Choice

The PDS Multistream and CDS Combine offer a choice of airseeder controllers to suit individual needs.  A Topcon X20 controller is offered as standard equipment or alternatively, a Farmscan 3500 controller can be ordered with the Multistream PDS.  Calibrating granular fertiliser and seed is achieved via a calibration POD conveniently mounted on the PDS chassis.  Granular fertiliser and seed are dispensed in conventional fashion through polyurethane metering wheels and adjustable metering flaps into a double shoot-designed air stream.  The metering wheels are designed for low wear life and low maintenance.  The metering housing under all four tanks is made from stainless steel and new models have been designed to make more efficient use of the air stream.

The total system design allows a granular or liquid metering unit to be controlled by the same controller without specialised programming or additional hydraulic components. Variable rate technology using electric over hydraulic control offers exceptional torque to metering wheels ensuring accurate rates are achieved even when using difficult to meter fertilisers.