Kirk Langley, Derbyshire, England: The SISIS Rotorake TM1000 is a tractor-mounted scarifier and linear aerator with collection which now features a new interchangeable reel system.

The redesigned product is now available with five quick release interchangeable reels to aid the removal and control of thatch and help reduce standing surface water by improving water infiltration.

Like other scarifying machines in the SISIS range, the Rotorake TM1000 works on the successful contra-rotating principle for a clean, consistent performance with a selection of blades to suit key seasonal tasks. This system ensures minimal surface disturbance thus reducing any disruption to the playability of the greens.

Unique features of the Rotorake TM1000 include a floating unit to follow ground contours, a range of five quick release interchangeable reels and optional spacing for scarifying, linear aeration, verti-cutting and brushing and a ‘no tools required’ depth setting ensuring fast, simple adjustments can be made.

One venue that has seen excellent results using the TM1000 is Normanby Hall Golf Club, in the English county of Lincolnshire. Head Greenkeeper Michael Burgin said: “Over the past 21 years I have seen the percentage of thatch in the top 50 mm rise from zero to 3.5. I didn’t want this to continue, so I decided to look for a solution.

“I did a lot of research and watched a number of videos online of greenkeepers using the TM1000. I read articles about other greenkeepers using the machine and what they said about the machine pretty much persuaded me to buy it.

“There were other machines on the market, but the ones we looked at didn’t collect. This would mean that you would require two or three guys going behind the machine clearing up. I also like the fact that the TM1000 can go down to 50 mm deep. The SISIS TM1000 runs straight through the turf – like a knife through butter.

“We have found that the time of year doesn’t really matter when it comes to using it. No matter what the weather, you can’t even tell that the TM1000 has been across the greens and that has really impressed me. It’s a reliable machine with very little maintenance required.

“Overall, it’s just a fantastic piece of kit. There has been a big improvement in the greens and our soil samples have proved that the thatch levels have dropped dramatically since using the TM1000.”

To view the TM1000 in action, please click on the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2-yAmvW9zs

SISIS is a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.