The modern agriculture has evolved to provide even more precise, faster, and efficient solutions in the field. Among the decision that most influences on the crop field yield is the choice between agricultural machines - self-propelled machines or trailed implements, especially when it comes to sprayers and spreaders.
So, what’s the difference between a self-propelled machine and a trailed implement? And how does this choice may impact on the operating performance of your farm?
In this article, you’ll understand what features a self-propelled machines has, the advantages it provides in relation to the trailed implements and what factors should be considered when choosing the ideal machine for your crop.
What is an agricultural self-propelled machine?
Self-propelled agricultural machines are the ones having own propulsion, i.e., they are equipped with an engine and don’t rely on a tractor for operations.
According to the agronomist engineer, Lucas Henrique Luersen, Stara Product Marketing Analyst:
"a trailed sprayer is coupled to a tractor, while a self-propelled sprayer doesn’t need a tractor."
This type of agricultural machine is ideal for farms that need more autonomy, agility, and precision in applications — especially when crop plants are in advanced stages, such as corn, whose stalks can limit the trailed implement usage.
Trailed sprayer or self-propelled sprayer: main differences
1. Propulsion and operating independency
The main difference is in the movement system. The self-propelled sprayer has an own engine and a higher ground clearance, which ensures better performance in areas where the crop plants are high.
On the other hand, the trailed sprayer relies on a tractor to be moved, with height and agility limitations.
2. Applications in advanced stages of the crop plants
The capacity to operate in different crop stages is a decisive factor when choosing an agricultural machine. Lucas Luersen states:
"The self-propelled machine allows applications of agricultural chemicals in advanced stages of tall crop plants, such as corn, increasing the productivity significantly."
The trailed implement doesn’t allow this type of operation efficiently as it features a lower ground clearance and shorter spray booms.
3. Automatic adjustment of the flow
The Stara self-propelled machines feature a flow controller that automatically adjusts the litres per hectare, according to the travelling speed, ensuring a uniform application.
Many trailed sprayers don’t feature this resource, demanding more manual control from the operator.
4. Smart 4-Wheel-Steering System and Zero Crop Damage
Other remarkable feature of the Stara self-propelled machines is the Smart 4-Wheel-Steering System, which reduces significantly the crop damage during steering procedures. “This system reduces the crop damage even more when compared to trailed sprayers,” adds the expert.
Self-propelled machine and efficiency: less waste, more result
Sustainability is an important pillar for on-board technologies on the Stara self-propelled machines and in Precision Agriculture as a whole. In addition to the savings of inputs, there is less environment impact in applications:
- The Nozzle-by-Nozzle Control System avoids overlap of chemicals;
- The Stara engines are economic and follow standards of low emission;
- The Imperador Eco Spray self-propelled sprayer, developed by Bosch and BASF, uses artificial intelligence to identify weeds and apply herbicide only where necessary. The system takes 15 pictures per second and analyses in real time where to spray or not.
How to operate a self-propelled machine in the crop field?
Operating these agricultural machines is easy. “The adjustments and calibrations are easy and carried out by Topper 5500 controller. There is no need for a course to operate it,” explains Lucas.
The technical delivery performed by the dealer ensures that the operator understands all procedures, from the beginning of the operation to fine adjustments.
On-board precise technologies on Stara self-propelled machines
The Stara self-propelled machines are true technology platforms on wheels. Some highlights:
- Topper 5500: the agricultural controller eases the calibration and adjustment, with the “Follow-me” system that instructs the step-by-step for the operator.
- Twin Row Spraying System: the technology alternates between two spray nozzles to keep the pattern of the droplets even with speed variation, avoiding drift.
- Nozzle-by-Nozzle Control System: avoiding application overlap and delivering chemical savings.
- Smart 4-Wheel-Steering System: found in the four wheels, providing softer steering procedures and less crop damage.
- Eco Spray: a self-propelled sprayer with spot spraying of herbicide using cameras, reducing up to 90% the usage of chemicals.
Stara Imperador: pioneering in the self-propelled sprayer line
Stara was a pioneer in launching technologies that nowadays are a reference in the sector:
- Imperador was the first and still is the only sprayer with central booms in the world — an innovation that increases the stability and ensures up to 58% more product on target.
Today, the line has models with tanks with capacities of 2,000 to 4,000 liters, and spray booms from 27 to 36 meters. Other important points include:
- Crop type and application stage;
- The need of technologies such as the Nozzle-by-Nozzle Control System, Blue Beam, and Twin Row Spraying System;
- Autonomy and ground clearance for taller crops;
- Connectivity level and machine technical assistance.
The correct agricultural technology ensures higher yield, economy of inputs and sustainability for the future of your farm.
Did you like the hints and want to find out the agricultural machine that best suits your crop field?
Stop by a Stara Dealer and find the most suitable equipment to boost your crop production.
