When Is the Right Time to Upgrade to a Bulk Seed System?
The short answer: it depends.
Each seed treating operation is unique in terms of setup, budget, volume of seed treated, age of equipment, and a list of other factors. Whether you’re an independent seed company or a large-scale grower, moving from a box-to-box treating setup to a bulk seed system is a big step. So how do you know when it’s time?
Consider the following factors to help guide your decision.
My customer base keeps growing.
If you’re experiencing a steady, consistent uptick in business, it might be time to start planning for the future. Box-to-box treaters like the AT500 work perfectly for small- to mid-sized operations. But if you’re struggling to keep up with the demand, upgrading to a bulk site might be in your best interest.
You have to consider the future too. If you foresee yourself treating even more seed a few years from now, setting yourself up for success today is key. It’s easier to grow into your equipment (and upgrade as needed) than struggle to keep up.
I need to treat seed faster.
The more your business grows, the more efficient you need to be. Not only can drum treaters like the USC LPV and LPX Lite treat more seed per run than the AT500, they can do it faster too. (If you want to go really fast, see the USC High Capacity Treater.) These technologically advanced systems allow you to program multiple treatment recipes, with more diversified weighing and metering options. That means treating more seed, with ultimate speed and meticulous precision. Plus, auto-tilt features on the treaters allow for complete coverage—from the first seed to the last.
I need to use multiple treatment blends.
If your customers are requesting numerous, different treatment blends, a bulk seed system will do wonders. Drum treaters like the LPX LITE will support up to 500 customers with unique recipes. These systems can also save up to 5,000 on-screen or downloadable reports. Plus, it can be controlled remotely via mobile device.
I need to maximize automation.
Manual or semi-automated box-to-box treaters are effective and economical, but they’re a bit more hands-on compared to a bulk setup. If you’re treating more seed, with multiple recipes, automation is a must if you want to maximize your time and money.
UAS has partnered with USC to deliver unmatched automation.
USC’s U-Treat and U-Command Rx programs allow treater operators ultimate control of their system—all at the palm of your hands. With these state-of-the-art softwares, you can program automated start, run and end sequences—making treatment runs highly repetitive and eliminating the opportunity for mistakes. You can also program multiple treatment recipes, and even adjust for local conditions such as soil type and insect/disease issues.
Plus, with mobile compatibility, you can use a tablet to manage your entire treating system from anywhere in the plant. That’s sure to save some time and money.
So, is it time for an upgrade?
Once you’ve determined if upgrading is the right move, you’ll have to decide on what equipment and weighing method makes the most sense for you—whether it’s batch or continuous flow.
UAS will work with you to determine the best solutions for your unique operation. We offer numerous ways to upgrade your existing equipment and automation through kits, packages and configurable models. And we’ll even help with site setup and provide training, calibration services, consultations and ongoing support.
We’re just a phone call away. And our phones are always on.