Trials & Product Development
Agricultural Fertiliser, Lime & Pelleted Products
How We Do It
Step 1 - Product Analysis
Every trial begins with a product assessment. We measure granule size, crush strength, and bulk density to understand how the material will behave when spread.
This information helps us identify suitable spreaders and expected working widths before heading to the field.
Step 2 - Field Tray Testing
Tray testing is used to establish how far the product can spread while maintaining an accurate pattern.
We normally begin at 24m (the most common working width on UK farms) and 36m (the most common wider width).
Testing is carried out on both main UK spreading systems:
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Outward-spinning discs – Amazone, Kuhn, Kverneland, Teagle (DCM)
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Inward-spinning discs – KRM and Teagle Centerliner
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From this foundation, further trials can include multiple machines, widths, and disc/vane combinations to build a full set of spread settings for different setups seen across the UK.
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Step 3 – Reporting & Analysis
You’ll receive a detailed report including:
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Full product analysis (bulk density, crush strength, size distribution)
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Tray test results with spread pattern and successful spread settings at each width
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Photographs of key tray contents, and any machine residue
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Coefficient of Variation (CV) calculations to quantify accuracy
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Optional video footage of the product being tested, showing dust and flow through the machine
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We can also capture additional data for:
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Blend segregation analysis – bagging tray contents at 1 m intervals for lab testing
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Product benchmarking – comparing results against competitor materials
Who we work with
We work with fertiliser, lime, and pelleted fertiliser manufacturers, importers, and distributors who want to understand how their products perform in real field conditions.
If it goes through a spreader, we can test it.
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What we do
We run independent field trials using a range of the most widely used fertiliser spreaders in the UK.
Our work helps you answer the key questions about your product:
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What types of spreader can it be used with?
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Can it spread evenly at common working widths such as 24 m or 36 m?
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What’s the widest width achievable while keeping an accurate pattern?
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How does it handle and how much dust does it produce?
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Do blended products segregate, and if so, at what width?
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Whether you need spread settings, comparative testing, or a deeper technical analysis, SCS can tailor a trial to your requirements.
Our Equipment
Our on-site fleet covers the main spreading systems used on UK farms, equipped with a full range of discs and vanes.
Current machines include:
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Amazone ZA-M / ZA-M Ultra / ZA-V / ZA-TS
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Kuhn Axis 30.1 / 50.1 (Rauch)
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Kverneland Exacta HL (Accord Exacta settings comparable)
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KRM M35 (Bogballe Base Trend)
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Teagle Centerliner SX & M36 (DCM)
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Vicon PS 03 / 04
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If you require a specific model not listed, we can usually source it, including down-the-spout applicators on request.
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What you need to provide
We typically require around 300kg of product per machine to test across 2–3 widths.
Trials can be scheduled year-round, weather permitting.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
"With the evolution of fertilisers and spreading technology, it is important to be up to date and efficient in the field. We have used SCS for many years and recommend them for consistently providing a reliable and efficient service to us and our customers."
Alison Schofield - Thomas Bell Fertilisers
