UK’s 1st euro Maus M4
Having operated a ROPA euro Maus M3 for the 2010-11 campaign, Charlie Stennett was quick to recognise the additional benefits of the new Mk4 machine and has become the first haulier in the UK to operate one.
Based outside Bury St Edmunds, Stennett Transport haul beet from around a 25 mile radius into the local British Sugar factory.
New features that made the decision easier include a full 10.2m pick-up compared to the previous 8.7m, improved fuel efficiency with increased road speed (32kph) and the elevating cab which allows the operator improved vision of the level of beet in the wagon, ensuring level loading and even weight distribution.
Unlike some loading methods, the Maus leaves the clamp in a good state. Not only is rutting from the loading shovel eliminated but the Maus spreads its spoil evenly across its 10m trail for easy incorporation when the job is done. It’s also much more fuel efficient than the loading shovel (and with its diesel tank mounted on the counter balance arm, more secure.)
“The main cost of hauling beet” explains Charlie, “is wagons standing in line. The Maus keeps them moving. I know when we arrive on site, it’s a press of the button and we are ready to load.”
ROPA’s unique 2 directional loading rollers submit each beet to around 10m of cleaning before entering the loader. This also avoids blockages. Stennetts’ euro Maus is fitted with rear spirals for additional cleaning and a water spray system across the front loader, useful in dry conditions and utilised by Stennetts to apply anti-freeze to the rollers at the end of the day’s work if frost is expected.
Charlie Stennett has been impressed with the euro Maus’ ability to handle all manner of trash including weed, stones, clods and twine left in strawed clamps.
He is confident that the new machine has the potential to complete 100 loads a day. In conclusion, he points out that you don’t commit to this level of investment without comparing what is available on the market. He feels that the euro Maus M4 is way ahead of the competition and ‘future proof’ to demands of the industry’s and his customers.
