The Protech P300S P400S CONTRACTOR P22, P200S/T, P250S Post Driver is a heavy-duty, tractor-mounted machine designed for driving posts into the ground, suitable for agricultural and forestry applications. It features a robust construction and hydraulic controls for precise operation, making it an efficient tool for fencing and similar tasks.
Function Description
The primary function of the Protech Post Driver is to drive posts into various types of ground, including stony or hard ground when equipped with the optional rock spike. The machine utilizes a heavy driver weight that is hydraulically lifted and then dropped to impact the top of the post, forcing it into the ground. Its design allows for significant adjustability to accommodate different terrain and post angles, ensuring vertical post installation even on undulating ground.
Important Technical Specifications
- Weight (including rock spike): 1150kg
- Driver Weight: 300kg
- Tractor Horsepower (minimum): 90 hp
- Auxiliary Oil Flow (minimum): 50 L/MIN
- Auxiliary Oil Pressure (minimum): 170 bar
- Slew Arm Movement: 120 degrees (from parallel to the main frame)
- Telescopic Slew Arm Extension: 800mm
- Mast Forward/Backward Tilt: 23 degrees (from mast vertical position)
- Mast Side-to-Side Tilt: 35 degrees (each side from mast vertical position)
- Dimensions: All dimensions are in millimetres.
- Telescopic In: 1485mm (slew arm), 1449mm (mast)
- Telescopic Out: 2285mm (slew arm), 1849mm (mast)
- Rear Leg Fully Down: 3300mm (height to top of mast), 3867mm (overall height)
- Base Width: 1985mm
Usage Features
The Protech Post Driver offers several features that enhance its usability and adaptability in the field:
- Hydraulic Control Panel: The machine is operated via a hydraulic control panel, strategically positioned to keep the operator at a safe distance from moving parts while providing good visibility of the work area. The control levers operate various functions, including slew, telescopic extension, rear leg, mast forward tilt, mast side tilt, and driver weight.
- Slew Arm Control: This feature allows the operator to pivot the slew arm through 120 degrees, enabling precise positioning of the mast relative to the tractor and the post.
- Telescopic Slew Arm Control: The inner slew arm can be extended or retracted by 800mm, providing additional reach and flexibility for post placement.
- Hydraulic Rear Leg Control: A hydraulic rear leg with a foot plate stabilizes the machine during post driving operations. It must be powered down to stabilize the machine and raised off the ground before slewing or telescoping.
- Mast Forward Tilt Control: This control allows the mast to pitch forward and backward by 23 degrees, ensuring the mast remains vertical even on uneven terrain.
- Mast Side Tilt Control: The mast can be tilted side-to-side by 35 degrees, further aiding in maintaining a vertical mast on undulating ground.
- Driver Weight Control: This function powers the lever arm to raise and lower the driver weight, which is crucial for impacting posts.
- Rock Spike Control (Optional): For stony or hard ground, an optional rock spike can be used to create pilot holes. The rock spike extractor function is operated through the slew arm control lever when the diverter lever is in the pushed away position.
- Post Cap Plate: The post cap plate is essential for holding posts securely during operation. It connects to the driver weight via a lock chain and hook.
- Safety Lock Pins/Plates: The machine is equipped with slew lock pins and mast tilt safety lock plates for secure transport and maintenance.
- Safe Working Zone: A defined safe working zone around the control panel ensures operator safety during operation.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safe operation of the Protech Post Driver. The manual outlines daily and weekly checks:
Daily Maintenance:
- Lift Rope Inspection: Check the lift rope for any signs of wear. Replace immediately if any doubt exists, using only a certified Protech rope.
- Hydraulic Hoses Inspection: Inspect all hydraulic hoses for signs of wear or damage. Replace if necessary.
- Mast Lubrication: Grease the mast where the driver weight runs to ensure smooth operation.
- Pivot Lubrication: Grease all pivot points on the machine.
- Nut and Bolt Tightness: Check and tighten all nuts and bolts to ensure structural integrity.
Weekly Maintenance:
- Hydraulic Leak Check: Inspect the hydraulic system for any leaks.
- Rope Pulley Functionality: Ensure that the rope pulleys turn freely without obstruction.
- Pivot Wear Check: Check all pivot points for signs of wear.
General Maintenance Guidelines:
- Safety First: Always ensure the weight is fully down, the rope is relaxed, hydraulic pressure is released, and the tractor engine is switched off before performing any maintenance or adjustments.
- Hydraulic System Priming: Before removing safety lock plates, carefully operate each control lever slightly to extend and retract cylinders, priming them with oil and removing air from the hydraulic circuit. This prevents the mast from falling due to uncharged cylinders.
- Storage: Store the Post Driver in a safe, stable position, away from public access, and in a manner that allows for easy reconnection to the tractor. Ensure all safety locking bars are fitted and the hydraulic hose is stored in a clean, secure place.