“We needed to boost capacity and improve efficiency when feeding our cows and followers,” explains James Robinson, pictured with his brother Henry from the family-run 850-acre Petsey Farm. “But with some traditional buildings still in use, physical machine size was also a key consideration.”
Battlefield’s ability to precisely specify the feeder to suit the farm’s requirements saw the tub height reduced by 50cm, and smaller wheels and tyres to be fitted.
“It’ll go into every building we need, but without compromising on tub capacity,” says James.
Having tried several different models, the Robinsons – brothers James and Henry, along with dad Richard – settled on a Siloking 4.0 for its robust build quality and the ability to create a consistent, fluffy ration in a quick and efficient manner.
“We’ve now halved the number of mixes needed every day and are saving a lot of time while keeping the cows well fed,” explains James. “Rations are of consistent quality and emptying is quick through the use of an HD door.”
He says that choosing Silonox for the auger edges has created a high-calibre mixer wagon that should stand the test of time. And his brother Henry reckons the Siloking is also very good at pre-chopping straw - an essential component for use in dry cow mixes.
“It’s a very impressive feeder, and has easily handled all that we’ve thrown at it,” explains Henry. “With its weight carried on two axles, we also don’t need to tie-up a big tractor every day - 115hp is enough to power the augers.”
With plans to increase the herd up to 300 cows in-milk, and add a sixth robot to the unit, having some spare feeding capacity was also an essential part of the buying process.
“We’re nowhere near maxed out preparing four different mixes in the morning, and one in the afternoon,” adds Henry. “Feeding up to 16 tonnes every day, it’s comfortably on top of the job, and saves us a lot of time every day of the year.”
