Why the 125A and 220A Bell Cane Loaders Help to Increase Crop Handling Capacity
The Bell cane loader is one of the signature machines in the Bell product stable. Originally introduced in the mid-sixties, it has successfully been applied in a wide range of industries across the globe.
Originally often used at large sugar mills and in transport load zones, bell cane loaders eventually became the main loaders in the sugar cane industry. With the capacity and workability of the loaders, it has become possible to load faster, more effectively and at reduced cost. This, in effect, also helped to reduce the cost of sugar, which benefitted the farmer, the mill, wholesale, retailer and at the end-of-the-day, the consumer.
Bell cane loaders come in various sizes, ranging from the smallest, very responsive 125A models, to the bigger and heavier zone loaders in the 220A model range.
What has set the Bell loaders apart from similar machines from other brands is the combination of hand controls for boom operation, in addition to grab control with foot-pedal driving for movement. This combination has made it easier to coordinate load and grab functions, while the feet are used for forward and backward movement – much the same way a normal vehicle operates.
The 125A lighter loader is used specifically for loading onto field trailers, although the unit can be used for zone loading where needed. The loader is available in 3- and 4-cylinder engine capacities and, with its exceptional low ground pressure, is designed for field operation where its lightweight characteristic helps to minimise the risk of the machine getting stuck. It has a maximum load height of 5 540mm, which enables it to effortlessly load the cane onto the transport trailer. What makes it even more useful in the field is its ability to grab, carry and load up to 600kg at once.
Add to such, the low fuel consumption rate of only between 4 and 5 litres per hour on the 3-cylinder unit, or 5 to 6 litres per hour on the 4-cylinder loader, and you have to agree that it is a pretty cost-effective machine to help increase speed of load from field to trailer, thereby saving time and labour. With the loading rate being field condition dependent, the variation in load speed is between 20 and 40 tonnes an hour.
However, if the larger 220A loader with its 4-cylinder engine is used, then the load capacity goes up to 50 tonnes per hour. Note that slope range and carrying distance affect the loading rate of the larger units in the zone load area. Because of the high load capacity, it is well-suited for zone work, but because it is heavier than and not as responsive as the 125 version, it is not as productive in the field.
The Bell cane loaders are designed for the harsh operating environments of sugar cane fields and load zones.
With low maintenance costs, straightforward designs, excellent fuel economy, easy steering and a robust character, the Bell cane loader is a must-have piece of equipment for any sugar cane loading zone or farm.
