Solid tine and linear de-compaction equipment

We will cover two types of aeration equipment in this card:

Solid tine aeration equipment (also referred to as deep spikers) drive solid spikes into the surface of the pitch, punching holes into the ground without removing any soil.

Linear aeration equipment powers through the soil with offset blades that slice through the soil decompacting as the machine moves forward leaving 15-20mm slits.

Deep vertical action machinery

Vertical deep tine aerators are an invaluable tool for the aeration and decompaction of football pitches.

- Comes with adjustable working depth and options to add heave which effects the angle at which the tine enters the soil, the greater the angle the greater the fracturing effect on the soil

- A range of different types of tines are available depending on the requirements and needs of each ground

- Desired hole spacing would be around 100mm centres using 18 – 24 mm solid tines, initially it is preferable to aim for maximum achievable depth but no shallower than 150mm

- The frequency of the operation will depend on the intensity of use of the pitch and the soil type to some degree

- These are particularly effective where there is a need to promote gaseous exchange and promote root development in turn accelerating the break down of organic matter

Deep linear action machinery

Deep linear action machines aerate on a rotating drum using long slicing blades to break the ground

The blades cut through the ground and cause forward and sideways vibration de-compacting the ground as they pass through

- Very effective on heavier soils and when used in conjunction with deep vertical aeration

- Always ensure ground conditions are at their optimum when carrying out this operation 

- Consider the timing, especially if summer sports are played at the same ground

- Due to the linear slits created these are particularly useful in the autumn when improved drainage characteristics are the priority prior to wetter winter months