Utility tractors are compact, fuel-efficient, and easy to operate. (Image Credit: Balkrishna Industries Ltd.)

In today’s agricultural landscape, utility tractors—often called ‘wildcard’ tractors—remain one of the most sought-after and strategic choices for small to medium-sized farms

With power outputs ranging from 70 to 130 horsepower, these machines are designed to handle a wide array of tasks, from light fieldwork and transport duties to front loader operations in tight spaces such as barns, vineyards, and orchards.

Versatility is a cornerstone of utility tractors, and tyre choice must mirror this adaptability. That’s where Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) steps in. BKT offers customised tyre solutions, blending advanced technologies and modern compounds to deliver tyres that are reliable, durable, and fit for varied terrain and tasks.

Utility tractors are compact, fuel-efficient, and easy to operate—qualities that make them indispensable for day-to-day farming activities. Their ergonomic design guarantees comfort during extended operating hours, while their powerful traction and manoeuvrability allow productivity even on loose or uneven soil. Whether it’s ploughing, weeding, transporting hay, or navigating narrow barns, utility tractors offer unmatched flexibility.

BKT provides tyre models specifically designed for utility tractor use in order to support these demands. These include:

AGRIMAX RT 765 – Excellent for open-field use, offering even weight distribution, reduced soil compaction, and strong self-cleaning properties.

AGRIMAX RT 855 – A versatile option suitable for multiple terrains, delivering high traction and tear resistance. Ideal for tractors frequently moving between the field and the road.

AGRIMAX RT 657 – Reliable for both tillage and road transport, with select sizes suitable for grape harvesting. Noted for its comfort and fuel-saving design.

BKT continues to support evolving agricultural practices by developing tyre patterns that meet the real-world needs of utility tractor operators. With durability, performance, and operator comfort in mind, BKT’s solutions help farmers maximise productivity and manage agricultural resources more effectively.

The R1 Single-Plot Research Combine by Alamco. (Image source: Alamco)

The R1 Single-Plot Research Combine by Alamco is designed to provide quick harvest without damaging the seeds

This is made possible by its advanced rotary technology that allows optimisation of the harvest process and improve data accuracy.

Unlike conventional plot combines that rely on high-speed threshing cylinders, R1 utilises exclusive top-fed axial rotors. This innovative design gently pulls material into the threshing chamber, which is over eight feet long, enabling higher throughput and greater efficiency. Operating at lower RPMs (350-500), the R1's rotary technology allows for the early harvest of large green plants, tough stems, and high-foliage crops, giving researchers a longer harvest window for faster decision-making. The self-cleaning system ensures easier cleanout and more pure samples for more reliable seed research data.

Equipped with Cummins QSF 3.8L FT4 Diesel Engine and Poclain rear Torque King 4WD wheel motors and tandem electronically controlled hydraulics, it delivers superior performance in tough field conditions.

Entomatic is highly versatile and can be used in horizontal and vertical row crops. (Image source: Biobest)

The Entomatic automated dispenser stands as a game changer for spider mite control, ensuring precise and uniform Phytoseiulus distribution across crops

Phytoseiulus persimilis, a specialised predatory mite, feeds exclusively on spider mites and is an essential and well-established component of biocontrol programmes. Entomatic is highly versatile and can be used in horizontal and vertical row crops. It has been widely adopted in high-tech protected vegetable crops, such as tomatoes, sweet peppers and cucumbers, as well as cut flowers and open-field strawberry production.

Beyond Phytoseiulus-System, Entomatic efficiently distributes other predatory mites, most beneficial insects, and Artemac supplementary predator feed in tomatoes. Its user-friendly, modular design allows for easy configuration across different glasshouse setups, whether mounted on existing carts, tractors, robotic sprayers, or custom driving platforms.

Sam Gui, market development manager for High Tech IPM at Biobest explained how Entomatic maximises effectiveness by smoothly and precisely releasing Phytoseiulus-System, at a controlled rate, over the head of the plants. “Aside from the increased precision, due to automatisation, Entomatic can significantly cut labour costs. Depending on the Entomatic model, we’ve seen labour costs for beneficial mite introduction cut by up to 90%.”

Among Bayer’s 11 sets of tanks, the measurement range varies from a maximum of 9 tons to a minimum of 4 tons. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Bayer Crop Sciences recently established a new supply centre in Hangzhou, which aims to expand the production of a variety of products such as fungicides, insecticides and herbicides 

The solution consists of load cells MP 79T, mounting kits, junction box, and weighing indicator, enabling precise execution such as solid-liquid mixing, high-speed agitation and homogenisation in Zone 2 hazardous area. The mounting kit has a built-in horizontal rod that effectively reduces the impact of lateral forces caused by stirring. The junction box employs a one-way breathable membrane technology, ensuring no condensation inside the box. These designs have enhanced the reliability under challenging environments.

Being certified with international regulations shows Minebea Intec's ability to comply with regulations worldwide and provide customers with the highest level of safety assurance. By utilising advanced digital technologies in alignment with German standards, Bayer's new supply centre aims to implement an integrated management system. 

Among Bayer’s 11 sets of tanks, the measurement range varies from a maximum of 9 tons to a minimum of 4 tons. Unlike traditional calibration methods that are time consuming, labour-intensive and often hindeed by structural limitations, the smart calibration allows for weightless calibration. Once the operator enters each load cell’s unique sensitivity coefficient (Cn), indicator will automatically calculate the loading data required for calibration. This feature simplifies operations and minimises downtime during subsequent periodic calibrations and can save around three days during installation and commissioning phase. 

From planning to commissioning and maintenance, Minebea Intec offers its customers support through every step of the way to ensure a smooth process.