S-FLOW is a trailed, hydro-pneumatically suspended linkage for SIP SILVERCUT DISC F front disc mowers. It is designed to improve the cutter bar’s adaptation to uneven terrain, provide even ground pressure, ensure cleaner forage and reduce turf damage. Compared with a classic pushed linkage, it enables more responsive ground contour following, greater headland lift and better retraction in the event of a collision.
With the upgraded S-FLOW linkage, SIP introduces a newly designed trailed linkage system for front mowers that focuses on better terrain adaptation, easier attachment to the tractor, greater lifting height and simpler maintenance. The system is designed for users who need a front mower that remains stable, responsive and gentle on the ground even on varied terrain.
What does the S-FLOW linkage mean for a front mower and how does it follow the terrain?
The upgraded S-FLOW model is based on the concept of a trailed linkage. This allows the mower to adapt more naturally to the terrain and respond quickly to changes in relief. A key feature is hydro-pneumatic suspension with a closed hydraulic system, which operates independently of the tractor hydraulics. Because the suspension does not depend on the tractor’s hydraulic response, the system delivers high responsiveness and uniform float during mowing.
The linkage enables movement in multiple directions. The cutter bar can adapt horizontally, vertically and laterally, which helps the mower maintain an even cut and reduces the risk of forage contamination or turf damage. The system enables horizontal adjustment of +14 degrees upwards and -6 degrees downwards, vertical movement of the cutter bars from -200 mm to +300 mm and lateral terrain adaptation within a range of +/-14 degrees. When turning at the end of plots or overcoming possible obstacles, an additional hydraulic lifting cylinder provides increased ground clearance of up to 420 mm, allowing easier and safer passage.
Simpler attachment and easy operation
One of the practical improvements of the S-FLOW model is simplified attachment to the tractor. The Category II three-point linkage does not require an additional adapter or quick A-frame. It is equipped with Category II lower pins and a Category II/III upper pin, and the upper pin can be connected in three different positions. Hydraulic connection is also simplified, as the system operates with a single-acting hydraulic connection, whereas the previous model required a double-acting hydraulic connection.
The linkage is therefore designed for tractors with a Category II three-point linkage and top link, a 1000 rpm PTO shaft and a tractor weight category from approximately 3.5 to 12 tonnes. Optional equipment includes a double-acting hydraulic connection and a 12-volt electrical connection.
For the operator, the new S-FLOW includes several clear adjustment points. The working position indicator helps set the correct mower position when attaching it to the tractor. The system also includes three lever positions and three safety lever positions: parking, transport and work. The hydraulic adjustment valve also has three positions: a working position for headland lift and mowing, a locking position for transport and storage, and a position for setting the suspension pressure.
Working positions and operation
The S-FLOW linkage enables several working and lifting positions to suit different operating needs. In the lower working position, the mower is set at +200 mm with a blade angle of 7 degrees. In the upper working position, the mower reaches +300 mm with a blade angle of 3 degrees. Using the hydraulic cylinder, the mower can be raised to +420 mm, which is particularly useful when turning at the end of plots and crossing uneven terrain or windrows.
This wide range of movement is one of the system’s greatest functional advantages. It gives the operator greater flexibility and helps maintain mowing quality on different, uneven or demanding terrains.
Maintenance and optional equipment
The new S-FLOW also brings simplified maintenance. It is equipped with a dual lubrication system for the joints, which makes lubrication easier, and a simple oil drain, which simplifies regular maintenance. These details reduce the amount of maintenance work and help keep the machine ready for operation throughout the season.
For mowers with the S-FLOW linkage without a conditioner, a rear protective curtain is mandatory equipment. Optional equipment includes hydraulically folding side protection and mirrors with brackets, depending on the model and configuration of the front mower.
Which front mower linkage should you choose?
The upgraded S-FLOW linkage represents a clear step forward for SIP front mowers. It combines the advantages of a trailed linkage with a closed hydro-pneumatic suspension system, high responsiveness to uneven ground and improved carrying capacity. Compared with the previous S-FLOW version, it offers easier attachment, simplified hydraulic features, a reinforced frame, improved stabilisation and easier maintenance. Compared with a classic linkage, it provides superior terrain adaptation, improved protection in the event of impacts and cleaner mowing.
For professional mowing, these improvements mean greater operating comfort, better crop quality, less damage to the grassland and a more reliable connection between the tractor and the mower. The new S-FLOW is therefore not just an updated linkage; it is an enhanced mowing system designed for a more efficient, more adaptable and more user-friendly front mower.
Comparison: S-FLOW trailed linkage and classic pushed linkage for front mowers
| Function description | Trailed linkage S-FLOW | Pushed linkage SILVERCUT DISK |
| Hitch type | 3-point linkage Cat. II, no adapter required | 3-point linkage Cat. II, adapter required |
| Suspension / hydraulics | Hydro-pneumatic suspension; closed system, independent of tractor hydraulics; high responsiveness | Option with hydro-pneumatic or mechanical suspension; dependent on the tractor’s 3-point system; medium responsiveness |
| Headland lift / passage | High lift for easier passage | Lift determined by tractor type |
| Terrain adaptation | Very good terrain adaptation: horizontal, vertical and lateral | Adaptation via the 3-point linkage in floating position |
| Forage and turf protection | Excellent adaptation and adjustment of the cutter bar angle prevent forage contamination and turf damage | Less ground adaptation and less cutter bar angle adjustment |
| Behaviour in the event of a collision | In the event of a collision, it retracts much better than a conventional linkage | In the event of a collision, it retracts less |
| Distance between tractor and machine | Longer distance between tractor and linkage | Shorter distance between tractor and linkage |
| Machine centre of gravity | Machine centre of gravity farther from the tractor | Machine centre of gravity is closer to the tractor |
| Linkage weight | Heavier linkage | Lighter linkage |
The S-FLOW is better suited for users who mow uneven, undulating, or sensitive surfaces where clean forage, an even cut, and minimal damage to the turf are important. The classic push-type hitch is lighter, shorter, and can offer greater maneuverability, but it has poorer multi-directional ground adaptation.
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Key Takeaways
- SIP S-FLOW: This front mower hitch offers improved ground adaptation and greater stability during mowing.
- The hydro-pneumatic suspension system allows for a quick response to changes in terrain and reduces the risk of grass damage.
- Increased lift height and easy attachment to the tractor simplify the use of the S-FLOW hitch.
- For users who demand higher-quality mowing, S-FLOW also reduces soil contamination in the cut.
- The S-FLOW offers easy maintenance thanks to a dual lubrication system and a simple oil drain.
FAQ: S-FLOW hitch for front mowers SIP
The main difference is in the way the mower follows the terrain. S-FLOW is a trailed linkage, which allows the mower to adapt more naturally to the ground and respond better to changes in terrain. A pushed linkage is shorter, lighter and has the centre of gravity closer to the tractor, but terrain adaptation is generally achieved mainly through the three-point linkage in floating position.
No. S-FLOW uses a Category II three-point linkage and does not require an additional adapter. This simplifies attaching the mower to the tractor and reduces the need for additional coupling elements. With the pushed SILVERCUT DISC linkage, an adapter is required.
S-FLOW reduces forage contamination by improving the cutter bar’s adaptation to the terrain. Because the mower can adapt horizontally, vertically and laterally, the cutter bar follows the ground surface more accurately and is less likely to cut aggressively into the soil. This helps prevent soil, sand and other impurities from entering the forage, while also reducing damage to the turf.
Yes. S-FLOW is especially suitable for uneven, rolling and varied terrain, where the mower needs to follow changes in the ground quickly and precisely. Its excellent multi-directional adaptation enables more stable cutter bar operation, a more even cut and better protection of the turf.
No. S-FLOW uses hydro-pneumatic suspension in a closed system that is independent of the tractor hydraulics. This provides high responsiveness and more consistent terrain adaptation. With a pushed linkage, operation is more dependent on the tractor’s three-point system, so responsiveness is generally lower.
