| 83 nzdairy RURAL SERVICES » Central Silo Systems Ltd One of the standout features is the sensor’s 3D camera technology, which captures more than 15,000 measurement points to calculate the true level of feed inside the silo. Karen Phelps Running short of feed can mean lost production and profits, disrupted routines, and unnecessary stress for dairy farmers. Central Silo Systems believes it has a smarter answer, launching a new solar powered silo level monitoring system designed to give farmers real time visibility of feed stocks before problems arise. Managing director Sean Curry says the new technology gives farmers instant access to accurate silo information from their phone, tablet, or computer, helping remove the guesswork from feed management. The self cleaning wireless 3D camera sensor is fitted to the silo and powered by an integrated solar panel, removing the need for an electrician or mains power connection in outdoor installations. Once in place, the system provides live data on tonnes remaining, percentage remaining, feed consumption, refill deliveries, temperature, humidity, and images from inside the silo. “It is about making life easier for farmers and helping them stay ahead,” Sean says. “Instead of climbing ladders or estimating what is left, they can check their feed levels anytime and know exactly where they stand.” The system is priced from $2980 plus GST and takes 15 minutes to install, with a daily app subscription of $1 plus GST. Sean says the investment can quickly pay for itself through better feed planning, reduced downtime, and improved ordering efficiency. One of the standout features is the sensor’s 3D camera technology, which captures more than 15,000 measurement points to calculate the true level of feed inside the silo. That includes identifying the coning effect where meal settles unevenly, giving a far more accurate reading than a simple top level estimate. “It is not just showing there is feed in the silo. It tells you how much is actually usable,” Sean says. “That is valuable when feed is expensive and timing matters.” The system also monitors storage conditions, tracking humidity and temperature to help farmers protect feed quality. Poor storage conditions can lead to spoilage, mould, fungi, and bacteria, all issues that can impact animal performance and feed value. Colour images from inside the silo add another layer of confidence, allowing users to inspect hygiene, detect spoilage, or confirm deliveries. Email alerts can be customised to warn farmers when feed reaches preset levels, and notifications can also be sent directly to suppliers so refills can be scheduled before stocks run low. Central Silo Systems is based in Palmerston North and remains a family owned business led by father and son team Bernie and Sean Curry. Solar powered silo-level monitoring system “It is about making life easier for farmers and helping them stay ahead.” The company has more than 50 years of combined experience supplying grain silos, feed systems, grain handling equipment, and feed milling solutions to New Zealand agriculture. Sean says after sales support has been a major part of the company’s success, with much of its work coming through referrals. “We install and service what we sell, so customers know we are there for the long term,” he says. “That ongoing relationship is important to us.” The new monitoring technology aligns with the company’s practical approach to innovation, offering tools that save time while improving efficiency on farm. Installation takes about 15 minutes, readings are available immediately, and software updates can be handled remotely. Specialists in Dairy Efficiency Solutions corkillsystems.co.nz 0800 10 7006 Dairy • Automation • Electrical DESIGN, SUPPLY, INSTALLATION AND SERVICE OF GRAIN AND ANIMAL FEED SYSTEMS 0800 333 379 sales@centralsilos.nz www.centralsilosystems.co.nz
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