KE AGRI International’s BunkerSweeper750 reclaimer significantly outperforms traditional front-end loader reclaiming operations.

When reclaiming from ground piles, the following significant benefits have been identified in comparing the BunkerSweeper750 reclaimer (BS750) to the standard front-end loader (FEL).

1. SAFER

BS750 is operated using a remote control unit, with the operator standing away from moving plant, minimising risk of engulfment from stockpile collapse as well as minimising the risk of entanglement if working on or near the machine.

2. More Productive

a) The BS750’s faster loading rate means more volume transferred from ground piles every day, reducing time to clear stockpiles. This additional volume increases plant productivity where product is feeding directly into a production facility.

b) The increased volumes being reclaimed amplifies throughput where the product is being transferred onto subterminal or port, reducing their overall operating costs also.

3. REDUCED OPERATING COSTS

a) Site labour cost savings

1. BS750’s superior loading rate means that it can load trucks faster averaging at least 1 truck per hour more than FELs performing the same task (based on side-by-side field trials in USA). This means less time overall to empty grain piles and receive product at the end site.

2. Annual savings are significant and allow for a rapid pay-back on the purchase of a BS750.

b) Labour cost savings

1. Employee pay rates: BS750’s user-friendly Joystick style remote control unit requires minimal training and most unskilled employees can quickly master the movement and operation of the machine to reclaim grain. In comparison, an FEL driver needs to be qualified and licenced and have advanced skills to maximise product movement and minimise damage to the bunker/groundpile floor, walls and aeration ducts.

c) Maintenance cost savings

1. BS750’s softer handling paddle reclaim operation and height adjustable features ensures it minimises any damage to the ground pile floor surfaces, walls and aeration pipes compared to the larger grain buckets digging and driving into piles and often damaging walls, floors and aeration ducting.

2. BS750’s design incorporating a diesel generator, paddle sweeps, augers and a swing conveyor provides the operator with a machine that has at least 20% less annual maintenance costs of a FEL (based on both machines undertaking the same task over that period).

d) Fuel cost savings

1. The BS750 uses only 15% of the daily diesel fuel used by a FEL performing the same task resulting in huge cost savings over the period of reclaiming.

4. MORE SUSTAINABLE

The BS750’s superior fuel economy (only 15% of the daily usage of a FEL) has a dramatic impact on carbon emissions and hence enhanced opportunity to achieve performance targets set by the business.

5. ENHANCED PRODUCT QUALITY

a) Reclaimer’s paddle sweep design assists in breaking up clumpy products such as wet corn and provides a more consistent quality of product being outloaded.

b) Paddle and Auger speeds ensure no damage occurs when handling pulses and legume products.

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