The seed disc plays a critical role in the seeding system. Its purpose is to deliver seeds, either individually or in groups, to the seed valve with precise timing and spacing. This ensures accurate seed placement in every row.
Because different crops have different seed sizes and planting requirements, FarmDroid offers a range of seed discs designed for various conditions and seed types.
How to Identify a Seed Disc
Each seed disc has a code printed on the reverse side. This code provides key information about the disc specifications.
1. Hole Type
The hole type identifies the shape of the holes in the disc.
The most common type is "S", which indicates a round hole.
2. Hole Diameter [1/10 mm]
This value indicates the diameter of each hole in the disc.
Example:
- S18 = Round hole with a diameter of 1.8 mm
The correct hole diameter ensures reliable seed pickup and release.
3. Number of Holes
The number of holes determines:
- Seed spacing within the row
- The maximum seeding speed of the robot
In general, discs with more holes can support higher seeding speeds.
4. Disc Thickness [1/10 mm]
The disc thickness is selected according to the seed size.
Using the correct thickness helps ensure smooth disc rotation and consistent seed delivery.
5. Disc Version
The disc version identifies the seed system it is designed for:
- 03 = Compatible with +SEED 6 mm
- 07 = Compatible with +SEED 14 mm
6. Compatible Droid Version
This is an internal revision number used to identify the disc version and compatibility.
Distance Rings and Disc Thickness
To ensure proper rotation of the seed disc, the funnel is fitted with a distance ring (spacer) that matches the exact thickness of the seed disc being used.
Important: The distance ring thickness must always match the seed disc thickness.
Using a distance ring with a different thickness can negatively affect the seeding system and may cause damage to:
- Seed motor
- Coupling
- Seed disc
The thickness specification can be found on the flat outer surface of the distance ring, as shown in the illustration below.
Seed Disc Holes and Maximum Seeding Speed
As mentioned above, the number of holes in a seed disc affects the robot's maximum seeding speed.
The graph below shows how fast the robot can drive while maintaining accurate seed placement at different seed spacings.
Identifying Discs by Seeding System
The image below shows how to identify seed discs based on the seeding system they are designed for.
⚠️ Important
For optimal seeding performance, all active trailers must be equipped with identical seed discs and distance rings (spacers).
Using different seed discs or spacers on the same robot can result in:
- Reduced seeding accuracy
- Irregular seed spacing
- System malfunctions
💡 Note
If you would like a seed batch to be analyzed to determine the most suitable seed disc, please contact your local distributor.