Maschio Gaspardo launched a pto-powered rotavator/rotary tiller that knocks down cover crops and stubbles and mixes the residue in the top few cm of soil.

Referred to locally as a bio tiller, the L-shaped blades on the pto-powered shaft on the MSC Pro bio work at faster speeds (up to 10km/hr) and shallower depths (5-10cm) than usual with this type of machine.

The company says that the technique, which is popular with organic growers in popularity in Italy, Germany and Austria, prepares a seedbed for a wide range of crops while limiting both compaction and soil erosion. Available in seven widths from 1.6m to 3.0m, all of which can work to a maximum depth of 28cm, power requirements for the widest version are from 130hp to 170hp.

The standard rotor has a diameter of 540mm diameter, but the company also makes a 570mm version with larger flanges, counter flanges and 10mm-thick blades. Other options include track eradicators and a hydraulically-adjustable levelling bar.

Fellow Italian company Falc also showed a ‘bio’ machine. Called the GL 3000 bio tiller, the 3.0m and 1.7t heavy machine at EIMA is fitted with both front and rear wheels. The GL is also available in 3.5m, 4.0m, 4.5m and 6.0m versions. Power requirements range from 120hp to 380hp.