Vögele MT3000-2i USA Offset Powerfeeder
Presented here is the USA version of the 1:50th scale Vögele MT3000-2i offset powerfeeder from NZG. This is an update to the European version of the MT3000-2i with a new cast heavy duty undercarriage. It is possible to pose the model in a transport configuration with a folding canopy reducing the height of the model while the front hopper fits within the profile of the chassis. The rear conveyor frame can be lowered until it is almost touching the floor.
One very good feature on the model is the hopper, with both sides sliding open to reveal the central conveyor belt. Auger transfer screws are fitted to the bottom on each side and, while they don't rotate, they look realistic. The entire front section of the hopper can be raised to show how the remaining material is discharged and this works very well on the model, with the underside linkage all replicated. The front frame has mounted rollers which can be rotated and the frame pivots in the centre, just like that on the full sized machine and rubber front skirts have been added to prevent material falling forward.
The familiar yellow canopy has extending sections on each side to protect the operator when the seating frame is rotated out for a better view of the work area. The main control console is mounted to a sliding frame, allowing it to be deployed on either side of the model. All the safety railings are accurately scaled and integrated into the side panels which pivot along with the seats. The decking has a textured diamond plate finish which extends along the walkway where the access steps are located. The control console has authentically printed dials and controls and the rotating seat is equipped with an integrated joystick and arm rests.
NZG have put a lot of thought into the model, with two engine panels on each side of the machine opening to reveal a mock-up of the engine and cooling systems. The hinge is stiff enough for the panels to remain raised and the detail revealed within is certainly a welcome addition.
The track frames on the USA version are heavy duty with the larger diameter lower roller wheels integrated into the main casting. The rubber tracks are constructed of a single piece with pad detailing moulded into the outer surface. They are a fairly tight fit but do just about rotate.
The internal conveyor that transfers the material from the hopper is mainly hidden within the body of the machine and the belt cannot be rotated. The hydraulic drive motor has been added, complete with hose detailing while more flexible hoses are arranged along the frame to the main conveyor lift hydraulics and motor of the main conveyor.
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The tip of the main conveyor also houses a drive motor with floodlight lamp housings on both sides, highlighted with silver paint. The internal rubber belt is fixed and cannot be rotated on the sample reviewed here which is a little surprising considering all the other functional detailing. A fabric cover is draped over the top of the conveyor frame, with an etched grill located on the underside of the frame. |
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The conveyor can be raised/lowered with the hydraulics stiff, allowing the chosen angle to be maintained. The MT3000-2i offset feeder finishes off the Vögele range nicely, perfectly painted in the corporate colours with crisply printed markings and logos.
