Bauer Rainstar TX Plus, Rainstar TX Plus E Operating Manual
OPERATING MANUAL
for
RAINSTAR
Series TX Plus
Introduction
Thank you very much for purchasing a BAUER RAINSTAR!
We have pleasure to present to you the BAUER RAINSTAR, an irrigation machine that features state-of-art
technology and top quality. This manual describes how to assemble, operate and service your BAUER
RAINSTAR. For reasons of clearness and because of the many possibilities this manual does not cover every
information down into detail. In particular, it cannot possibly deal with every conceivable aspect of operation
and maintenance.
If you need further information or if you are faced with any special problem for which this manual does not offer
sufficient details, please do not hesitate to contact BAUER company at Kowaldstraße 2, A-8570 Voitsberg
in Austria for the information you need.
We should also like to emphasise that the contents of this operating manual neither form part of or alter in any
way, previous or existing agreements, promises, or legal relationships. Any commitment on the part of BAUER
is based solely on the respective purchase contract, which also contains the complete and only valid warranty
arrangement. The contents of the present operating manual neither extend nor limit said contractual terms of
warranty.
All information contained in the present manual is based on the latest product details available at the time of
printing.
BAUER company reserves the right to change without notice, without assuming any liability!
BAUER RAINSTAR is designed for safe and dependable performance provided it is operated according to the
present instruction manual. Therefore, in spite of the simplicity of the RAINSTAR, we request that you read this
manual carefully before putting your BAUER RAINSTAR into operation! All instructions given for handling,
operating and servicing the machine must be strictly observed. On condition that these instructions are followed
your BAUER RAINSTAR will operate trouble-free to your full satisfaction for many years!
Non-observance of these instructions may cause personal injury or damage the equipment!
This operating manual is considered an integral part of the RAINSTAR. Suppliers of new and used RAINSTAR
machines are advised to put down in writing that this manual was handed over together with the device.
Please make this manual available to your staff. You are kindly requested to state RAINSTAR type and serial
number in all inquiries, correspondence, warranty problems or parts orders. These details are specified on the
nameplate.
We wish you success and hope you will enjoy working with your BAUER RAINSTAR!
II
Manual for BAUER RAINSTAR TX Plus
Product details
Type designation:
Type number:
Serial number
1
:
Dealer:
Date of shipment:
Manufacturer:
RAINSTAR
Series TX Plus
Name:
Address:
Tel./Fax:
Röhren- und Pumpenwerk BAUER Ges.m.b.H.
Kowaldstr. 2
A - 8570 Voitsberg
Tel.: +43 / 3142 / 200 - 0
Fax: +43 / 3142 / 23 0 95
Owner or operator:
Name:
Address:
Tel. / Fax:
Note: Please make a note of the type and serial number of your RAINSTAR and accessories. Be sure to specify
these details every time you contact your dealer.
Printing date / revised: January 1999 / 00
1
In all warranty claims and correspondence relating to this machine it is essential to specify the full serial number group including all letters.
This applies to both the machine and the components concerned. We cannot emphasise this point often enough.
Manual for BAUER RAINSTAR TX Plus III
General Safety Instructions
Symbols and terms
The CE symbol that has to be affixed on the machine by the manufacturer outwardly
demonstrates compliance of the machine with the directives for machines and other
relevant EU directives.
WARNING!
This “Warning” symbol refers to important safety instructions in this manual.
Whenever you see this symbol be aware of possible injury hazards. Read
the note following the symbol very carefully and inform the other operators
accordingly.
CAUTION
Non-observance of this instruction may cause damage to or destroy the
machine or individual components.
NOTE
Qualified operators are persons who on account of their training, experience and instruction as well as their
knowledge of relevant standards, rules, precautions to be taken for accident prevention, and prevailing
operating conditions, have been authorised by the person in charge of plant safety to perform the respective
tasks required, and in doing so are able to recognise and avoid potential hazards. Among other things,
knowledge of first-aid procedures is also required.
It is very important to observe this note or condition!
Product liability
As defined by the product liability law every farmer is also an entrepreneur!
According to §9 PHG (Product Liability Law), liability for damage to corporeal things caused by defective
products is expressly excluded. This exclusion of liability also applies to parts not manufactured by BAUER
itself but purchased from external suppliers.
Duty to furnish information
Even if the customer passes on the machine later-on he is obliged to hand the operating manual on to the new
receiver, too. The receiver of the machine must be instructed with reference to the mentioned regulations.
Intended use
BAUER RAINSTAR is built exclusively for normal agricultural applications (intended use).
Any use beyond this normal use is considered non-conforming. Manufacturer is not liable for damage
resulting from such non-conforming use, the sole liability for damage from non-conforming use is with the
user.
Intended use also includes compliance with the manufacturer’s operating, maintenance and service
instructions.
The BAUER RAINSTAR may be used and operated only by persons who are familiar with the device and
aware of the hazards involved.
All rules for accident prevention as well as any other generally valid specifications and regulations relating to
safety, work medicine and traffic law must be strictly observed.
Unauthorised modifications on the machine release the manufacturer from liability for damage resulting
therefrom.
IV
Manual for BAUER RAINSTAR TX Plus
Index
1 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION ................. 1
2 GENERAL ......................................................................................................................... 3
3 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR RAINSTAR TX PLUS ...................................................... 4
4 DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................. 5
5 PUTTING INTO OPERATION ........................................................................................... 7
5.1 STEPS TO BE PERFORMED ONCE OR AS REQUIRED .................................................................................. 7
5.2 OPERATING MODE I: PE-PIPE PULL-OFF ...................................................................................................... 8
5.2.1 Machine transport to set-up position ................................................................................................................... 8
5.2.2 LOWERING THE CART .................................................................................................................................... 9
5.2.3 PE-PIPE PULL-OFF ......................................................................................................................................... 11
5.2.4 SPEED CONTROL WITH ECOSTAR 4300 .................................................................................................... 13
5.2.5 SPEED ADJUSTMENT with mechanical regulation ( Optional ) .................................................................... 13
5.3 OPERATING MODE II: LAYING DOWN THE PE-PIPE ................................................................................ 15
5.3.1 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN COMPONETNS ................................................................ 16
6 ECOSTAR 4300 .............................................................................................................. 20
6.1 General ...................................................................................................................................................................... 20
6.2 DISPLAY WINDOWS AND MENU OVERVIEW ............................................................................................... 21
6.3 PROGRAMMING OF 4 DIFFERENT SPEEDS .................................................................................................. 25
6.4 STATUS DISPLAY .................................................................................................................................................. 26
6.5 The MOST COMMON COMBINATION OF DIFFERENT CONSTANTS ...................................................... 27
6.6 STOP - SENSOR ...................................................................................................................................................... 28
6.7 Operation of the BAUER ECOSTAR 4300 ............................................................................................................ 29
6.7.1 SPEED ADJUSTMENT .................................................................................................................................... 30
6.7.2 PRE – OR POST IRRIGATION ....................................................................................................................... 30
6.7.3 START ............................................................................................................................................................... 31
6.7.4 MONITORING .................................................................................................................................................. 31
Manual for BAUER RAINSTAR TX Plus V
6.7.5 STOP ................................................................................................................................................................. 32
6.8 Pressure SWITCH ( OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT) ................................................................................................ 33
6.9 ERROR DESCRIPTION – ECO STAR 4300 ....................................................................................................... 33
6.10 Programming procedure ......................................................................................................................................... 34
6.11 BATTERY................................................................................................................................................................. 37
6.11.1 SOLAR PANEL ................................................................................................................................................ 38
6.11.2 CHECKING THE CONNECTIONS ................................................................................................................ 38
6.11.3 CHECKING THE LENGTH SENSOR ............................................................................................................ 38
6.11.4 LIMIT STOP FOR TURBINES – REGULATING VALVE WITH ECOSTAR 4300 .................................... 39
6.11.5 SHORT CHECKLIST fOR ECOSTAR 4300 ................................................................................................... 39
7 OPTION - SMS ................................................................................................................ 40
8 CABLE CONNECTIONS –CONNECTION DIAGRAM .................................................... 43
8.1 Checklist fOR ECOSTAR 4300 ............................................................................................................................. 45
8.2 TABLE FOR PRE-AND POST-IRRIGATION .................................................................................................... 49
9 MECHANICAL CONTROL .............................................................................................. 50
9.1 TACHOMETER ( OPTIONAL ) ............................................................................................................................ 51
10 EMERGENCY SHUT-OFF ............................................................................................ 53
11 WINDING MECHANISM ............................................................................................... 54
12 SHUT-OFF AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT ...................................................................... 54
13 CART ............................................................................................................................ 55
14 OVERPRESSURE SHUT-OFF VALVE (OPTIONAL ON ECOSTAR STAR 4300) ..... 55
15 OVERPRESSURE SHUT-OFF VALVE (OPTIONAL WITH MECHANICAL SPEED
CONTROL) ............................................................................................................................ 56
16 LOW-PRESSURE OR UNDERPRESSURE SHUT-OFF VALVE (OPTIONAL WITH
ECOSTAR 4300) ................................................................................................................... 57
17 LOW-PRESSURE OR UNDERPRESSURE SHUT-OFF VALVE (OPTIONAL WITH
MECHANICAL SPEED CONTROL) ...................................................................................... 57
VI
Manual for BAUER RAINSTAR TX Plus
18 WINTERIZATION – DRAINING .................................................................................... 58
19 SETTING INSTRUCTIONS FOR RAINSTAR TX WITH GEARBOX G2 ..................... 59
19.1 SETTING THE BAND BRAKE (1) ........................................................................................................................ 59
19.2 SETTING THE THREADED ROD (4) .................................................................................................................. 59
19.3 SETTING THE SHIFTING GATE (8) ................................................................................................................... 60
19.4 SETTING 1st GEAR SHUT-OFF ............................................................................................................................ 61
19.5 SETTING 2nd GEAR SHUT-OFF ........................................................................................................................... 61
19.6 SHUT-OFF FRAME (14) ADJUSTMENT ............................................................................................................ 62
19.7 SHUT-OFF ROD ADJUSTMENT (20) .................................................................................................................. 62
19.8 TESTING 2nd GEAR SHUT-OFF ........................................................................................................................... 63
20 WINDING MECHANISM - STARTING POSITION ...................................................... 64
21 90 TX PLUS WITH G4 GEARBOX PUTTING INTO OPERATION .............................. 65
21.1 OPERATING MODE I: PE-PIPE PULL-OFF .................................................................................................... 65
21.2 LOWERING THE CART ........................................................................................................................................ 65
21.3 POSITIONS OF THE SHUT-OFF LEVER ........................................................................................................... 65
21.4 PE-PIPE PULL-OFF ................................................................................................................................................ 65
21.4.1 SPEED ADJUSTMENT .................................................................................................................................... 68
21.5 OPERATING MODE II: LAYING DOWN THE PE-PIPE ................................................................................ 68
21.5.1 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS ................................................................ 68
21.5.2 PTO REWIND: .................................................................................................................................................. 71
21.6 SPEED CONTROL .................................................................................................................................................. 72
21.7 TACHOMETER ....................................................................................................................................................... 72
21.8 EMERGENCY SHUT-OFF ..................................................................................................................................... 73
22 SETTING INSTRUCTIONS FOR RAINSTAR TX WITH G4 GEARBOX ...................... 74
22.1 SETTING THE SHIFTING GATE ........................................................................................................................ 75
22.2 SETTING THE BAND BRAKE .............................................................................................................................. 75
22.3 SETTING THE THREADED ROD ........................................................................................................................ 76
22.4 TESTING THE BAND BRAKE for release of the brake band ............................................................................ 76
22.5 SETTING THE GEARBOX SHUT-OFF ............................................................................................................... 77
Manual for BAUER RAINSTAR TX Plus VII
22.6 TESTING THE SHUT-OFF .................................................................................................................................... 78
23 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE .................................................................................. 78
24 TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................. 79
25 CONFORMITY CERTIFICATE ..................................................................................... 84
VIII
Manual for BAUER RAINSTAR TX Plus
1 General instructions for safety and
accident prevention
CHECK THE OPERATIONAL SAFETY OF THE MACHINE BEFORE EVERY START-UP.
1. In addition to the instructions contained in this manual, all specifications generally valid for safety and accident
prevention must be observed!
2. The warning and instruction signs affixed to the machine give very important instructions for safe operation.
Observing them serves your own personal safety!
3. Never put the machine into operation unless all guards and safety devices are completely mounted and in their
proper working position!
4. Acquaint yourself with all equipment components and controls as well as their respective functions before
starting to work. It is too late when the device is already running!
5. The operator’s clothes should fit tightly. Avoid wearing loose clothes!
6. When handling slurry always keep in mind that the gasses produced are highly toxic and extremely explosive in
combination with oxygen. Therefore, open fires, light tests, sparking and smoking are strictly forbidden!
7. Utmost care is required with regard to gasses in slurry and dung channels at open valves to the preliminary pit,
before the main pit, or at cross channels. The same applies to mixing and withdrawal points when mixers or
pumps are running!
8. When handling slurry always ensure sufficient ventilation!
9. Keep the machine clean to avoid fire hazards!
Power take-off (applies only to PTO driven machines)
1. It is not allowed to use any other types of PTO drive shafts except the ones prescribed by the manufacturer!
2. Drive-shaft guard tube and guard cone as well as the PTO guard – also on the machine side - must be mounted
and in good working order!
3. When using a PTO drive shaft always observe the specified overlap in transport and working position!
4. Never connect or disconnect the PTO drive shaft unless the PTO is stopped, the engine turned off, and the
ignition key pulled out!
5. Make sure the drive shaft is always connected and secured properly!
6. Attach the safety chain to keep the drive shaft guard from rotating with the shaft!
7. Before you turn on the PTO make sure that the selected tractor PTO speed corresponds with the permissible
implement speed!
8. Before starting the PTO make sure that nobody is standing in the danger zone of the machine!
9. Never turn on the PTO when the engine is turned off or during a transport drive!
10. When working with the PTO nobody is allowed near the turning PTO or drive shaft!
11. Warning! The PTO shaft may continue turning due to its centrifugal mass after the PTO has been turned off!
Keep clear of the machine during this time and do not touch until the PTO shaft stands absolutely still!
12. For cleaning, greasing, or adjusting the PTO driven implement or drive shaft, PTO and engine must be switched
off and the ignition key pulled out!
13. Place the disconnected drive shaft on the provided support!
14. When drive shaft has been removed put the guard on the PTO shaft!
15. If a defect occurs repair it immediately before starting to work with the machine!
Hydraulic system
1. Hydraulic system is under high pressure!
2. When connecting hydraulic cylinders and motors, make sure the hydraulic hoses are connected as specified!
3. Before coupling the hydraulic hoses with the tractor’s hydraulic system make sure that the entire hydraulic
system is pressureless both on the tractor and implement side !
4. Inspect the hydraulic lines at regular intervals and replace them immediately in case of defects or ageing.
Replaced hoses must comply with the technical specifications of the implement manufacturer!
5. When looking for leaks use only suitable equipment because of the injury hazard involved!
6. Liquids emerging under high pressure (hydraulic oil) may penetrate the skin and cause serious injuries! An
injured person must see a doctor immediately! Danger of infection!
7. Before working on the hydraulic system the machine must be lowered, the system depressurised and the
engine turned off!
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus
1
Electric-driven implements
1. All work beyond normal maintenance of the implement should be performed only by a professional electrician!
2. Defective or broken plugs and sockets must be replaced by a professional electrician!
3. Never pull a plug out of the socket at the flexible electric cord!
4. Extension cables for power supply should be used only temporarily! Never use such lines permanently as a
substitute for the required fixed installations!
5. Flexible lines laid across traffic areas on the farm must have at least 5 m ground clearance!
6. Always turn off the power supply before you do any work on the machine!
7. Check all electric lines for visible defects before you put the machine into operation! Replace defective cables and do not
start the machine before that!
8. Never use electric-driven implements in damp situations or locations exposed to fire hazard unless they are adequately
protected against moisture and dust!
9. Covering electric motors may cause heat concentration with high temperatures which could destroy the operating
equipment and cause fires!
Hand-operated devices (valves)
1. Because of the slurry gasses produced in the lines, no slu rry is allowed to remain in closed pipelines – bursting
hazard!
2. Lay the pipelines with sufficient inclination and make sure that the selected closing order of valves allows all
lines to be drained completely!
3. Protect the valves against unauthorised handling!
4. If a valve gets jammed do not apply force! Use only the operating levers supplied with the implement!
5. Observe the permissible maximum operating pressure of valves and pipelines when pumps are operated!
6. Service only when the tanks are empty!
Maintenance
1. Never perform any maintenance, service or cleaning work or fault elimination steps unless the drive is turned
off and the engine is standing still!
2. Check proper fit of all nuts and bolts regularly and tighten them, if necessary.
3. If maintenance work is required on the lifted machine always secure it by means of appropriate supports!
4. When exchanging tools with cutting edges always use proper tools and wear safe protective gloves.
5. Dispose of oil, grease and filters according to local laws and regulations!
6. Always turn off power before working on the electric system!
7. Before electric welding on the tractor and mounted machines the generator and battery cables must be
disconnected!
8. Spare parts must meet manufacturer’s minimum technical specifications! This is the case for instance with
original spare parts for instance!
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 2
2 General
BAUER products are designed and manufactured carefully, subject to a system of continuous quality control.
BAUER RAINSTAR models 65/75/85/90 TX Plus are turbine-driven machines designed for fully mechanised and
labour-saving irrigation. Individual pipe sets are no longer laid down by hand; system set-up, repositioning, and
operation are all done with the tractor only.
BAUER RAINSTAR is a universal machine capable of covering fields of varying lengths and widths. There is no
need for supervision while the system is operating.
Strict observance of all operating and service instructions in this manual is the basic prerequisite for many years of
trouble-free operation. Therefore please make sure that all operators on your staff are familiar with the instructions
given in this manual.
The model number as well as the serial number (Vehicle identification number) are stamped into the nameplate. In
addition, the serial number is stamped into the frame of the undercarriage. Please state these data in all your
inquiries, correspondence, warranty matters and parts orders.
We warrant for this RAINSTAR according to our General Terms of Sale.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 3
3 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR RAINSTAR TX PLUS
1. Read this manual before you put the system into operation for the first time.
2. Never handle the PE-pipe near the device or the device itself during pull-off or retraction.
3. During PE-pipe rewind with the tractor’s PTO or during pipe pull-off, always make sure that the gear shift
lever is in the proper position. Moreover, the maximum permissible speed must not be exceeded.
WARNING!
4. Never service or set any part of the system while it is operating.
5. Keep clear of all moving parts.
6. Never expose any moving parts by removing protective elements.
7. Keep a safe distance from the sprinkler during operation.
8. Be careful in case of high connecting pressure!
9. Make sure that the sprinkler’s water jet does not hit public roads.
10. The RAINSTAR is licensed for transport in agricultural operation only.
For transportation on public roads all applicable traffic requirements must be strictly adhered to.
WARNING!
Danger by improper handling!
For safety reasons it is not allowed to transport the RAINSTAR by pulling it with a
fork-type drawbar (OPTIONAL) and the toolbar!
11. When loading the machine on a trailer note that the water remaining in the pipe shifts the system’s centre of
gravity upward.
12. When driving in curves with the RAINSTAR loaded on a trailer the permissible maximum driving speed is
considerably reduced dependent on the position of the RAINSTAR’s centre of gravity!
13. Always ensure that the locks and stops are secured according to the machine’s general conditions for
transport.
14. Before starting to irrigate near electric power lines you should contact your local power supply company
regarding safe distances that have to be allowed.
15. Maximum permissible speed: 10 km/h
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 4
4 DESCRIPTION
The RAINSTAR is a universal irrigation machine for varying lengths and widths of fields and best suited for
irrigating seedbed and garden crops, park areas and horticultural plantations as well as any kind of grassland.
The main components of the RAINSTAR are a two-wheel undercarriage on which is mounted the turntable
swivelling through 270°, and the reel with the special PE-pipe, the multifunctional compact gearbox with
TX20 turbine, and the high-rise cart that is ideal particularly for high crops, with the BAUER wide-range gun.
The material of the PE-pipe corresponds to the latest findings of the art. One end of the pipe connects to the reel
drum and to the water supply through its axle. The other end of the pipe is coupled with the high-rise cart. The
cart’s track width is infinitely adjustable (See Technical Data).
The heart of the RAINSTAR is the TX 20 turbine. It is a full-flow turbine mounted in a flow-promoting position
directly on the reel. This turbine is nearly insensitive to soiled water and offers maximum efficiency. The drive
shaft is made of stainless steel. The regulating cam inside the turbine is coated with a wear-proof rubber lining.
The lifetime lubricated drive shaft bearing is sealed by a maintenance-free mechanical seal.
TX 20 turbine is designed for water flow rates from 13 to over 60 m³/h and features a wide control range. Impeller
speeds range from 200 to 800 rpm.
The cart retraction speed is infinitely variable. It is adjusted by means of the ECOSTAR 4300 and can be read
from the display. Depending on the available water flow and connecting pressure, it may vary between 8 and
150 m/h. The connecting pressure at the machine should not exceed 11 bar.
Power is directly transmitted from the turbine to the change-speed gearbox and the chain drive onto the reel. A
band brake prevents fast reverse rotation of the reel in the final shut-off position, when the PE-pipe is stretched.
The band brake as well as the gear wheels in the oil-filled change-speed gearbox act like a brake and prevent the
PE-pipe windings on the reel from loosening during pipe pull-off.
For safety reasons the drive is fitted with an emergency stop and a reversing stop as well. With this emergency
stop device the drive can be stopped immediately by hand.
WARNING!
Never remove the drive cover before you have turned off the water supply to the
machine and slackened the stretched PE-pipe.
To slacken the stretched PE-pipe move the gear shift lever downward carefully (see proper procedure).
A winding carriage moved by a helically grooved spindle ensures that the PE-pipe is wound up properly on all
layers.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 5
ECOSTAR 4300 keeps the retraction speed constant on all layers independent of the pipe length still lying on the
field.
Mechanical control option: In order to ensure that the retraction speed remains constant on all layers
independent of the length of PE-pipe still lying on the ground, RAINSTAR machines with this option are equipped
with a special layering mechanism. This compensating mechanism is activated by the speed compensating bar of
the shut-off frame that fits closely on the pipe on all layers and activates the regulating cam of the turbine through
the regulating rod.
At the end of the irrigation strip the cart is automatically lifted into the transport position. Thereby the automatic
drive shut-off is activated by rods. After being lifted automatically the cart is locked in the transport position.
If the machine is equipped with a shut-off flap (ECOSTAR) or a shut-off valve (mechanical speed regulation) the
water supply to the machine is shut off simultaneously.
After shut-off the RAINSTAR can be transported to its next setting-up position immediately. Then the PE-pipe can
be pulled or laid down again, the water supply connected, and the machine is ready for the next run.
When driving on public roads the reel must be turned into the driving direction and secured with the lock bolt. The
PE-pipe must be fully wound up on the reel and the cart lifted and locked. The jack and both rear machine
supports must be withdrawn to their uppermost position.
On public roads the drawbar and coupling ring must be hitched to the tractor’s yoke and secured with the pin.. The
maximum permissible driving speed of 10 km/h must be observed. For increased safety against overturning in
curves we recommend to set the maximum possible track width.
On principle, it is possible to transport the machine between hydrants in the field with the cart lifted on the side. In
this configuration the driving speed must always be adapted to the existing conditions and should never exceed 5
km/h. You must also take into consideration that this type of transport requires a wider driving lane.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 6
65 TX Plus – 90 TX Plus with gearbox G2
5 PUTTING INTO OPERATION
Before and during the first start-up grease all bearings, chains and guide parts of the winding mechanism. Use
normal ball bearing grease for all bearing assemblies with grease nipples, and a viscous and durable type of
grease for chains, guide rods and joints.
Tighten the wheel nuts before the first operation and check the tires for specified pressure (see Technical Data).
Tighten also the connecting bolts, the connection of the turntable side member on the undercarriage, the ball race
on the undercarriage, and the fastening of the hitch eye, according to the “Service and Maintenance“ table.
5.1 STEPS TO BE PERFORMED ONCE OR AS REQUIRED
Set the required track width on high-rise cart and RAINSTAR
undercarriage, depending on the existing type of crop.
Place the appropriate number of balancing weights on the
balancing pendulum of the cart. Two weights will do for
nozzle diameters from 14 to 24 mm. For diameters larger
than 24 mm two additional weights should be placed on the
pendulum when the smallest track width setting is used.
Nozzle DIA Track 1500
14 - 24 mm 2 weights
from 25 mm 4 weights
If the asymmetric cart design is used, the cart pendulum must
be loaded with two weights and the opposite cart wheel with
two additional weights.
Set the part circle on the wide-range sprinkler (approx. 220°
for full strip width). Confer to separate sprinkler manual for
detailed sprinkler instructions. Adjust the WINDGUN to
prevailing wind conditions by adjustment of the trajectory
angle.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 7
5.2 OPERATING MODE I: PE-PIPE PULL-OFF
5.2.1 Machine transport to set-up position
During transport the reel should be turned into the driving
direction and secured with the lock bolt. Cart, jack, and both
rear support legs must be lifted or withdrawn.
For lateral PE-pipe pull-off, set up the RAINSTAR on the
headland at right angles to the selected irrigation strip and
detach it from the tractor.
When you position the RAINSTAR make sure that the machine’s vertical axis of rotation is in the middle
of the driving lane or centred between two crop rows.
Adjust the undercarriage about level with the jack.
For lateral pull-off remove the lock bolt, turn the reel into the
direction of the driving lane and secure it again with the lock
bolt.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 8
Remove transport lock bolts from support legs.
WARNING!
If your RAINSTAR 90 TX Plus is equipped with the „hydraulic machine supports“ option, couple both hydraulic
hoses with the tractor’s hydraulic system and extend the supports.
WARNING!
On very hard soil the machine supports must be lowered or extended into the holes dug into the ground for this
purpose.
Machine supports are equipped with a spike which penetrates the soil very easily with the „hydraulic supports“
option.
Machine supports slide to the ground automatically.
Drive the supports into the ground with the detachable hand
wheel ...
......... and secure the supports with lock bolts.
The standard RAINSTAR equipment does not include a control unit (Optional).
Therefore the tractor’s hydraulic system must be switched over accordingly after the
hoses have been coupled. If this is not possible exchange the two hoses.
5.2.2 LOWERING THE CART
Disengage the mechanical locking of the cart in the operating
position.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 9
WARNING!
POSITIONS OF THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER
Slackening the PE-pipe
Gear stage I
In doing so the operator’s position should be outside of the machine supports.
Shut-off position
Transport position
Gear stage II
PE-pipe pull-off
Push the gear shift lever downward carefully - the carts moves
down slowly.
PTO rewind
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 10
Move the gear-shift lever to the „PE-pipe pull-off“ position. A
spring presses the lever up and locks it.
5.2.3 PE-PIPE PULL-OFF
Pick up the draw-out hook with the toolbar and start pulling
the cart .
Do not stop abruptly. Always slow down gradually at an intermediate stop in the field or at the end of the pull-off.
Stop pulling off the pipe when the white marking line becomes visible on the reel.
If the PE-pipe has been exposed to the sun for a longer period or if its surface
WARNING!
temperature rises above 35 °C for some other reason you must let water run
through the pipe to cool it off before the unwinding or retraction procedure.
The standard wheel cart or the asymmetric wheel cart need
not be hoisted (therefore 1 draw-out hook is sufficient).
Pull-off speed: do not exceed 5 km/h!
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 11
Couple the pressure hose. Open the water supply.
Position I slow retraction
Position II fast retraction
If a wrong position has been selected:
WARNING!
CAUTION WHEN CHANGING GEARS: never change gears when the PE-pipe is
stretched!
When the full operating pressure has been reached and clear
water is discharged at the sprinkler’s nozzle in a full jet without
air bubbles, push the gear shift lever to the “PE-pipe
retraction“ position.
Procedure
I - O - slackening the PE-pipe - II
II - O - slackening the PE-pipe - I
Slackening the PE-pipe – see „Proper procedure“ on following page.
Shifting into gears I and II is only possible when the cart is lowered and the turbine rotating!
CAUTION!
The reel starts pulling in the PE-pipe .
When the cart is lifted in the shut-off position the gear-shift lever is held in the
0 position and shifting is not allowed!
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 12
5.2.4 SPEED CONTROL WITH ECOSTAR 4300
CAUTION!
Set the required retraction speed with the arrow keys
in the operating mode of ECOSTAR 4300.
You can readjust the speed any time while the
machine is operating.
See Retraction speed control with ECOSTAR
Do not set the speed until half a PE-pipe winding has been wound up on the reel
and the pipe is already stretched.
5.2.5 SPEED ADJUSTMENT with mechanical regulation ( Optional )
CAUTION!
Do not set the speed until half a PE-pipe winding has been wound up on the reel
and the pipe is already stretched.
Loosen the knurled nuts that secure the adjusting lever. Set
the desired retraction speed with the adjusting lever – the
speed is indicated on the tachometer (optional equipment).
Afterwards secure the adjusting lever again with the knurled
nuts.
Lever up = slower
Lever down = faster
WARNING!
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 13
The drive has four speed ranges (see Functional Description on page 16).
Therefore the speed reading on the tachometer (optional)
must be applied to the appropriate chart.
At the end of the run the cart is lifted automatically and the
drive is shut off through shut-off rods.
The water supply is stopped by means of the „overpressure
shut-off valve“ option, or the pumping unit is shut down by the
„low-pressure shut-off valve“ option in combination with a
pressure switch in the supply line.
When the pipe has been fully rewound, relieve the machine
supports with the hand wheel, move them into the transport
position and secure them with the locking bolts.
If the RAINSTAR becomes misaligned or pulled aslant during the irrigation run, it must be realigned. For this
purpose you have to slacken the PE-pipe first.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 14
Proper procedure:
1. Shut off water supply to the RAINSTAR. The PE-pipe slackens only slightly through the turbine acting as a
hydraulic brake.
2. Move gear shift lever to the middle position and slacken
the pipe by pushing the lever down slowly and carefully.
3. Realign the machine and support it adequately.
4. Open the water supply again. PE-pipe retraction continues.
5. Put the gear shift lever into the desired position.
5.3 OPERATING MODE II: LAYING DOWN THE PE-PIPE
In addition to the pull-off method the PE-pipe can also be laid down on the ground while the machine is hauled over
the field. This method is mostly used in situations where heavy soil makes it impossible to pull the cart across the
field or where the field is longer than one or two times the PE-pipe length. Moreover, the laying down method
allows using smaller tractors because no pulling forces are applied on the pipe.
Drive the RAINSTAR into the field allowing for the sprinkler’s distance of throw.
*) W = distance of through of the sprinkler
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 15
Lower the cart as described in Operating mode I, chapter
“Lowering the cart” and anchor it slightly. Now drive over the
field with the machine.
Carry out all other steps as described before.
5.3.1 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN COMPONETNS
5.3.1.1 MACHINE DRIVE - FULL-FLOW TURBINE
The change-speed gearbox contains gear wheels which
X20 full-flow turbine is a specifically designed turbine with
large cross sections and minimum pressure loss. Therefore it
can reach high retraction speeds also at very low flow rate. It
features a highly flow-promoting design and is mounted
directly on the reel shaft. The turbine provides the energy
needed for PE-pipe retraction. Speed is taken directly off the
impeller shaft and transmitted over a two-stage (three-stage)
V-belt drive to the change-speed gearbox.
reduce the turbine’s speed accordingly. The gearbox features
two speeds. Reel drive stop at the end of the irrigation strip is
achieved by disengagement of the toothed clutch.
In combination with the two belt stages the two-speed gearbox allows precise adaptation to existing operating
conditions. As a result, the following retraction speeds (m/h) can be reached:
65 TX Plus , 75 TX Plus , 85 TX Plus
8 - 30 22 - 45 40 - 80 50 - >100
vE = [ m/h ] vE = [ m/h ] vE = [ m/h ]
vE = [ m/ h ]
833 5804 . 4
90 TX Plus , PE Ø 8 5 - 90 , Getriebe / gea rbox G2
85 TX Plus , PE Ø 90
90 TX Plus [ m/h ]
9 - 23
11 - 30 22 - 55
18 - 45
85 TX Plus , PE Ø 90 [ m/h ]
12 - 30
15 - 40
25 - >100
30 - >100
vE = <10
833 5861 . 4
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 16
On RAINSTAR models with 90 mm PE-pipe diameter (basic units 85 TX and 90 TX ) the turbine is fitted with a
special connecting bend as well as a three-stage V-belt drive.
This design allows low retraction speeds and as a result precipitation rates of up to 50 mm, even in case of large
flow rates (up to nozzle dia. 30 mm).
For this purpose you screw out the regulating screw (1) which is easily accessible, and screw it back into the hole
after turning it around 180° with the sealing cone side pointing outward.
As a result, part of the water flow is redirected above the turbine’s impeller.
This reduces the output of the turbine and consequently also the retraction speed.
Moreover, the 3-grooved V-belt pulley provides an additional reduction stage so that the low retraction speed
required for such extreme conditions can be reached (for 50 mm precipitation height).
WARNING!
Never remove the drive cover for service work or change of the transmission unless
the PE-pipe has been completely slackened! Put the gear shift lever into the shutoff position! This shut-off position applies also for transporting the machine on
streets and roads!
Switching from I to II or the other way round is easy to do with the gear shift lever when the cart is lowered and the
turbine rotating.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 17
But note:
When the cart is lifted and in the shut-off position, the gear-shift lever is held in “0” position and shifting is
impossible! If the PE-pipe is stretched you have to slacken it first, before engaging the next gear
Move the gear shift lever from a gear stage to the middle
position. A spring presses the gear shift lever up and
prevents fast reversing of the reel and PE-pipe by means of
the band brake. By pushing the gear shift lever down very
slowly you release the brake and slacken the PE-pipe.
Afterwards you can change into the required gear.
PTO DRIVE
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 18
If required, you can rewind the PE-pipe with the tractor and a
PTO shaft. Move the gear shift lever to zero position. A
spring presses the gear shift lever into the locking recess. In
this position the band brake is released. This gear shift lever
position serves also for PE-pipe pull-off.
Rewinding the PE-pipe with the PTO shaft becomes necessary if irrigation is no longer necessary due to natural
rainfall or if the PE-pipe has been pulled off to drain the machine for winterization
WARNING!
Rewind at lowest possible PTO speed – start slowly and smoothly – always
avoid jerky start-up.
Maximum PTO speed = 540 rpm
Avoid extra strain by smallest possible PTO shaft articulation.
If the PE-pipe is covered with mud it should be loosened and set free before the
rewind operation to reduce the pulling forces.
If the soil is deep and heavy the rewind must be carried out at a lower speed in
order to ensure that the permissible loads and pulling forces for PE-pipe and
RAINSTAR are not exceeded.
If you disengage the tractor’s PTO during PE-pipe rewind the reel must stand
absolutely still when the PTO shaft is re-engaged. Double motion may cause
severe damage.
When you drive the reel with the PTO, the automatic final
shut-off is inactive. Therefore you must stop the PTO in time
and wind up the end of the PE-pipe with the hand wheel. This
will prevent damage to cart, shut-off, gearbox, etc.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR series TX Plus 19
6 ECOSTAR 4300
ReTRACTION SPEED CONTROL
6.1 General
BAUER ECOSTAR 4300 allows you to operate your irrigation machine with ease at the touch of a
The
button.
An illuminated four-line display offers you comprehensive indication of the machine’s current operational status.
Through permanent comparison of set-point and actual value of the retraction speed you can administer the
precipitation rate you need.
The ECOSTAR 4300 consists of the electronic box, a cable harness with the connected sensors for the PE- pipe
length retraction speed and shut-off as well as connections for battery, solar panel and the turbine regulation
motor.
Connections are also provided for installing a pressure switch and an electric shut-off valve (both optional).
The electronic system of the ECOSTAR 4300 is rigidly built and has been tested under different climatic conditions.
If problems still occur it is advisable to exchange the complete electronic box. If a sensor is defective it is possible
to exchange only the sensor, too.
Operating manual for BAUER RAINSTAR Series TX Plus 20
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