Powering Performance: Feeding Over 2,000 Cattle Daily with Abbey’s VF2650 Plus

Thanks to the Irish Farmers Journal for the great feature in their recent article highlighting the Power family’s use of Abbey Machinery’s VF2650 Plus twin-tub feeder.

For the Power family of Callan, Co. Kilkenny, efficiency is everything. Operating a large-scale dairy and beef finishing enterprise, they milk over 650 spring-calving cows and finish approximately 730 head of cattle annually. With more than 2,000 animals to feed each day, dependable equipment is key – and that’s where Abbey Machinery continues to play an essential role.

Decades of Dependability

The relationship between Abbey Machinery and the Power family stretches back over half a century. John Power recalls collecting his first Abbey slurry tanker in 1973 – and the brand has been a trusted presence on the farm ever since.

“We’ve been very happy with the performance of the Abbey feeders. The last two machines gave practically no bother at all,” John says.

Now operating the VF2650 Plus twin-tub feeder, the family continues their practice of upgrading every six years to ensure maximum reliability and minimal downtime.

“Replacing every six years keeps the machines in top condition — we’ve never had to reline or replace augers, which keeps running costs low,” John explains.

Built to Last

The Abbey VF2650 Plus is designed for longevity and performance. It features 22 mm heavy-duty augers, 8 mm steel side walls, and Comer gearboxes built for durability. For the Powers, this upgrade has made a real difference:

“The new feeder is even more heavy-duty than the last. It’s a well-perfected machine from top to bottom.”

Powered by a New Holland TS115, the feeder mixes around eight loads a day, handling maize silage, straw, beet and up to 1,000 round bales annually. The serrated knives are self-sharpening and typically last a full season with only regular greasing required.

Simple, Smart Feeding

Equipped with Digi-Star electronic weighing and a two-speed gearbox, the VF2650 Plus combines precision with ease of use. John prefers a hands-on approach:

“After feeding every day for decades, you know what works. I like keeping it simple.”

The steering axle also enhances manoeuvrability between sheds and reduces tyre wear – key benefits for a busy, high-output system.

“The steering axle makes a huge difference in manoeuvrability,” John adds.

A Proven Investment

After more than four decades using diet feeders, the Power family view their Abbey machine as indispensable.

“It takes a little more power to run, but that’s no issue. For what it does, it’s well worth it. When you break it down, it costs about €4 per animal per year, which is excellent value.”

 

Machine Specification

• Model: VF2650 Plus

• Capacity: 26 m³

• Auger: Twin vertical auger

• Weight: 9,000 kg

• Recommended horsepower: 120 hp

• Length: 7.71 m

• Height: 3.18 m

• Width: 2.86 m

• Wheels: 435/50 × 19.5

Why the Powers Choose Abbey

• Excellent build quality

• Handles baled and chopped silage with ease

• Consistent, fluffy mix quality

• Simple, low-maintenance design

Abbey Machinery would like to thank the Irish Farmers Journal once again for featuring the Power family and their VF2650 Plus in their recent article.

Interested in acquiring an Abbey Diet Feeder? Contact us here.