Parker shows products for uniform seed planting depth at Agritechnica 2023

Display at Agritechnica showing each of the Downforce Solutions from Parker (Photo: DPI)

Parker Hannifin has previewed a selection of products from its Downforce Solutions portfolio for agricultural applications at Agritechnica 2023.

In combination, the various tech innovations can deliver uniform seed planting depth, both through force control of the planting element, through to adjustment of that process via rebalancing (due to reduced seed load and vehicle fuel usage).

In all, Parker’s Negative Downforce concept can provide ease of control for automated seeding systems. Key features include: single solenoid control for up and down force; two-hose solutions for fluid conveyance; low electrical power requirements; fail-to-downforce, in case of power loss; and single-source supplier.

Hydraulic downforce can provide either active or passive force to maintain ground contact via a ground-engaging implement with the end result of uniform seed planting depth.

Fixed pressure provides the maximum downforce, while the proportional valve control’s upward force reduces the maximum downforce as necessary.

The system is calibrated using data from a force feedback sensor which can be custom-designed dependent on row unit design. Pressure sources include tractor valves, vacuum fan and cylinders.