In a bid to neaten up the design of its bigger sprayers, Berthoud has introduced a three-fold version of its popular Axiale steel boom.

Until recently, it was only the huge aluminium Ektar booms that had two pivot points. But with 30m-plus units becoming more popular, it decided to extend the offer to the rest of the range.

The Axiale B3 boom is available in widths from 24m to 33m and, unlike its two-fold cousin, even the largest are able to tuck neatly alongside the sprayer.

See also: Driver’s view: Essex grower’s verdict on Berthoud’s Vantage sprayer

Adding another fold in the boom has also significantly reduced the height of the outfit, as the engineers have been able to use a lateral main pivot, rather than an inclined one.

Coupled to that, the hydraulic services have been moved from the top of the rear frame to the lift arms, making sure the overall height is well below 4m.

Keen not to compromise the strength of the boom, the firm has fitted large pivots, with plenty of adjustment to take out any slack as they wear.

So far, just two Axiale B3 booms have been sold on Vantage trailed sprayers, but they will be available on most models. They command a £3,500 to £4,000 premium over the two-fold version.