John Deere Introduces New Load Command™ System
LENEXA, Kansas — John Deere introduces its new Load Command™ System that allows a self-propelled sprayer applicator to load a 1,200 gallon tank in about three minutes versus a traditional fill time of 12 to 15 minutes.
"Load Command is an industry first. This is a revolutionary new tendering system for the custom-application industry that allows a post-application sprayer to be as productive, if not more productive, than a traditional floater. The Load Command system simplifies the loading process and helps operators easily manage the heavy and bulky tendering hose during the refill process. Load time is greatly reduced so the sprayer can spend more productive time in the field spraying. This allows operators to cover more acres per day," says Cory Venable, product manager for John Deere Des Moines Works.
Load Command further enhances the three-season capabilities of the John Deere 4930 Sprayer. Operators can apply both wet and dry products year round, with one chassis. This equates to asset utilization that provides an optimum return on the custom applicator's investment.
Refilling a sprayer's tanks with liquid nitrogen can be a difficult, time-consuming and cumbersome process as it's not uncommon for a 10-foot hose filled with liquid nitrogen to weigh nearly 200 pounds.
"Load Command completely changes the sprayer tendering process — simply pull up, couple, and load," says Venable.
With the Load Command system, an operator drives the sprayer up close to the tendering vehicle and exits the machine. A swing arm that holds the tendering hose is mounted to the tendering vehicle. The operator extends the tendering arm and connects its coupler to the coupler that's mounted to the front of the 4930 Sprayer. Once connected, sensors activate the loading process that allows the operator to return to the sprayer cab while the tank is being refilled. Once the tank is full, the system automatically stops the loading process and disengages the coupler. The operator can then back the sprayer away from the tendering arm and can return to spraying.
"Load Command greatly simplifies the loading process and reduces the strain and fatigue on operators while loading. During a typical workday, a custom applicator could use a 4930 Sprayer to apply more than 40,000 gallons of liquid fertilizer. That means they'd stop to reload 33 times. If they can decrease their load time from a typical 12 to 15 minutes, down to about three minutes with Load Command, the applicator's productivity is greatly enhanced. Our factory tests show a potential productivity gain of up to 40 percent for customers who use a John Deere 4930 Sprayer equipped with Load Command." says Venable.
The Load Command System is now available to order on 2010 model year John Deere 4930 Sprayers. For more information, or to see the system in operation, contact your local John Deere Commercial Applicator Dealer or visit the www.JohnDeere.com.
John Deere (Deere & Company — NYSE: DE) is a world leader in providing advanced products and services for agriculture, forestry, construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation. John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.
Media Contact:
Barry Nelson, Mgr., Media & Channel Relations
Phone: 913-310-8324
E-mail: NelsonBarryE@JohnDeere.com
Eric Hodson, Sr. Writer, Public Relations
Phone: 913-310-8284
E-mail: HodsonEricS@JohnDeere.com