Arag, innovative components for precision agriculture
Arag components for precision agriculture are on stage at EIMA International. The spotlight is first of all on the Flowtron solenoid valve, designed for applications in the spraying and weed control sector, and for the distribution of liquid fertilisers also on seed drills. Awarded the 2022 Tehcnical Innovation prize, Arag's latest product caǹ be managed in pulse width modulation (PWM), adjusting the nozzle flow rate and keeping the pressure and drop size constant. This technology, as the Reggio Emilia-based company (based in Rubiera) explains, guarantees optimal product distribution. Another plus of this model is the double ring seal, which reduces the stroke of the mobile core, thus increasing flow rate and adjustment precision. Characterised by low power absorption, the Flowtron valve caǹ be installed on all Arag nozzle holders and is compatible with the main pesticide distribution technologies, such as those for selective treatment of tree crops or open field. Another innovation proposed by Arag at the Bologna exhibition is the Orion 3 flow meter, based on electromagnetic induction measurement technology and designed to manage liquid distribution systems on seed drills. Multiple flowmeters can be connected via the CAN-Bus port and monitor all the rows of a seed drill; each one, the manufacturer explains, caǹ control a valve that regulates the output flow rate. This feature makes the Arag flow meter one of the most accurate systems for precision seeding. In the electric ball valve segment, the Emilia-based company offers the versatile and compact 852 series models, designed to handle high flow rates. The 2-way valve version features a 20 mm nominal bore, a gearmotor equipped with a mechanical position indicator to facilitate diagnostics, an integrated watertight connector and a bleed valve to prevent condensation. The T3 fork connector allows all types of assemblies to be created, reducing system space and assembly time. The company says that a 3-way model will also be available soon. Another highlight of the Arag range are the high-precision control valves of the 875 series with position sensor, used in the most innovative spraying systems. The 875 valves are used to regulate circuit pressure by keeping it constant; the position sensor allows the computer to anticipate choices in circuit management, thus speeding up processing times and performance. Finally, the new products proposed by the Rubiera-based company at EIMA 2022 include the 873t series proportional control valve in can-bus with position sensor and total closure function. This is a model specifically designed to manage the auxiliary services of a spraying or weeding machine. The CAN-Bus control combined with the position sensor optimises the positioning of the pin that controls the output flow. By assembling several valves of this type in line, thanks to the total closure position - says Arag - it is possible to control the distribution of the liquid to all services, allowing configurations that cannot be recreated by means of a normal multì way ball valve.
