John Deere’s latest wide-body 9000-series forage harvesters offer a beefed up design over their 8000-series predecessors, with additional features, more power and bags more torque for higher outputs. David Williams tried them out.
Four new models, the 9600, 9700, 9800 and 9900, replace 8600, 8700 and 8800 versions. Externally new styling is the most noticeable indicator but the purr of low-revving V-12 power units replacing previous straight-6 engines on three models is also significant.
The new models are 625–970hp, gaining 127hp over the previous most powerful 8800, and John Deere claims up to 10 per cent extra productivity over models replaced, combined with 10 per cent fuel savings.
On the three largest models, Liebherr 24.2-litre V12 power units produce maximum power at under 1,400rpm and a John Deere PSS 13.5-litre 6-cyl engine is used in the 9600.
To make the most of the low-revving engines a new transmission was developed allowing all major components to operate at optimum speeds.
Engines are mounted longitudinally for optimum cooling efficiency and all can meet latest Stage 5 emissions regulations. “We couldn’t meet Tier 5 using the Cummins engines fitted to 8,000-series models and the Liebherr V12 has bags of power, a very flat power curve and maximum torque at just 1,350rpm,” explained John Deere harvester specialist Ross Skimming. “Previously maximum torque was between 1,700 and 1,800rpm and if the revs dropped below 1,700 then there wasn’t as much torque in reserve.”
To cope with the extra power the processing system has been strengthened. Crop is fed through an 850mm channel and a stronger shearbar, sharpening system and drum is incorporated.
ProDrive fully automatic transmission achieves 13mph in field mode at 1,200rpm and 40kph for transport at 1,400rpm, providing fuel savings.
Demanding field test
Farmers Guide tried the new 870hp 9800 in a dense crop of rye grown for a Worcestershire AD plant. The huge torque reserves made it easy to operate in variable crop and noise levels were low in and out of the cab. “Because the new engines are so low-revving, there is no need to reduce engine speed at each headland turn and full power is always available,” Ross explained.
Updates to the Active Fill Control trailer filling system include the ability to automatically fill trailers at the rear now, as well as at the side. New twin cameras supply loading information to direct the spout and the update will allow harvester operators to keep their eyes on the header rather than having to watch the trailer during opening up. The demonstration field posed quite a challenge for the system as extremely dry conditions and strong gusting side winds caused the crop to be blown sideways necessitating constant spout adjustment, but it compensated well and the dust didn’t seem to confuse the cameras.
Harvest management
The cab is similar to before but the demonstration machine was fitted with the latest HarvestLab 3000 NIR (near infrared) sensor. This provides real-time measurement and recording of crop yield, moisture and constituents including protein, starch and fibre either as totals or on field maps.
The latest HarvestLab system also enables AutoLOC (automatic length of cut) settings to be monitored, and adjusts silage additive dosing on the move, based on dry matter content.
A brand new display was fitted to the demonstrator. The 4640 10in screen is similar to the 4600 version supplied in latest 8000-series tractors but the 4640 also operates as a standalone unit, enabling swapping between machines. It’s larger than the current flagship 2630 version, with additional features for greater flexibility including the ability to continuously trickle-feed information rather than waiting for a summary of areas completed. A brand new app; MyOperations, allows constant remote monitoring of machine settings and task progress, from anywhere with a data connection.
The 2630 is the minimum specification to run HarvestLab and Ross suggested that although the demonstration machine had the new screen and current 2630 fitted, users are more likely to have a standard smaller screen for machine operation with the 4640 for HarvestLab.
Superior chop quality
“Consistency of chop is excellent,” suggested Ross. “Chopping the rye to 6mm for the AD plant, every sample we checked was almost spot on. The previous 8000-series harvesters were already praised by users for their chop performance but the new models are even better.”
For those harvesting maize John Deere has added to its range of kernel processors. The new XStream KP was developed in cooperation with US-based Scherer and has a large 250mm diameter and 50 per cent roll speed differential increasing processing intensity by 10 per cent at all chop lengths.
Also available are the standard Premium KP unit with a sawtooth teeth design and the XStream KP which can have the sawtooth profile or a new XCut design with a spiral groove across the roll surface. The XStream KP also has built-in temperature monitoring, keeping the operator informed of temperatures in work to help prevent overloading and downtime through bearing failure.
Fendt designed and branded rubber-track crawlers were announced last year, some with new technology borrowed from the German manufacturer’s largest wheeled tractors. David Williams has been finding out how they perform.
Fendt designed and branded rubber-track crawlers were announced last year, some with new technology borrowed from the German manufacturer’s largest wheeled tractors. David Williams has been finding out how they perform.
The Fendt crawler line-up includes 7 models in 2 sizes, from 380–646hp. Both result from Challenger’s incorporation within the Fendt brand but, whereas the new 1100MT models are mechanically similar to the previous MT800-series, the smaller MT700-series has been replaced by all-new 900 Vario MT models.
Externally the most noticeable change, apart from green paintwork, is a Fendt cab but under the body panels is a Fendt Vario CVT transmission, track and cab suspension and Fendt controls.
With fewer changes the 1100MT models have been available since early this year but the 900 Vario MT models have only recently arrived on farms.
Farmers Guide visited a north Suffolk farm which was one of the first to take delivery of one of the new models.
Mark Hadingham and his son Ben farm in north-east Suffolk and just over the Norfolk border, trading as Retreat Farms and Flixton Farms Ltd. Approximately 1,600ha is farmed across 4 sites and the land is a mix of owned and contract-farmed. Most soil is Beccles-series clay but there is also some lighter land at Blyford nearer the coast.
“Our soil is a delicate asset,” commented Mark. “We have to look after it carefully so we moved to tracks approximately 20 years ago. We have a policy of not carrying out cultivations with wheeled machines and our wheeled tractors are used mainly for tasks including transport and hedge cutting. Since moving to tracks our soil structure has benefitted and although tyre technology has improved considerably in recent years, we don’t feel they provide the same soil protection. And it’s not only the soil that gains an advantage; tracks allow us to work more efficiently and get more from our machines.”
The first rubber-tracked crawler purchased was a Caterpillar, later replaced by a Claas-branded version. Then another brand was operated briefly before settling on Challengers, supplied through East Anglian main dealer Thurlow Nunn Standen.
In recent years the fleet has included two 765s and a larger 865. A 765D was recently part-exchanged for a new Fendt crawler which arrived in early August, and which complements the farm’s 765C and a larger 865C.
Cropping includes winter oilseed rape, sugar beet, vining peas, winter barley, spring barley and some rye and crops are established using Vaderstad 6 and 8m Rapid drills.
Cultivations are mainly min-till although ploughing is carried out where needed. The plough is a Gregoire Besson 9f reversible and cultivators include a 6m Vaderstad Top Down, a 6m Vaderstad Rexius Press, an 8m Vaderstad NZ seedbed cultivator and a 6m RapidLift toolbar mounted to the farm’s 6m Vaderstad Rapid drill. Mole ploughing and subsoiling are carried out where needed.
“During the autumn we often have all three crawlers working, but only bought the 800-series crawler because the smaller 700-series wasn’t available with the same power,” explained Mark. “We didn’t want to go to the bigger model to do more work, but needed pulling capacity for the plough and drilling with the RapidLift toolbar fitted.”
Main user Jordan Burcham said the new models offer 100 per cent improvement for operators and that it will be hard to spend a day on the farm’s Challengers after a week on the Fendt.
Easy decision
When Mark heard of the new Fendt models he was optimistic that pulling capacity would be increased and attended a demonstration in Lincolnshire earlier this year. “It was good to see the Challenger replaced, but improved and brought up to the next level,” he said. “We have considered other brands and keep an eye on alternatives but believe the new Fendt models offer the best design and performance.”
The farm ordered a new 943 Vario MT, the flagship of the 900-series with 431hp. Mark believes the new tractor’s additional power will allow it to share larger implements with the 800-series, making field operations more efficient.
By the time of Farmers Guide’s visit the new tractor had worked 110 hours, and field work had included mole draining and cultivating with the 6m TopDown.
“It’s improved 100 per cent over the previous 765D,” commented main operator Jordan Burcham. “It’s hard to compare as it is so different but I know that using the older models again will come hard. The transmission is obviously very different as the CVT and engine adjust continuously for optimum performance. Previously I was always changing powershift gears and a low ratio had to be selected for pulling away otherwise it could stall. Then moving up through the gears took a while until the operating speed was reached.”
The new Fendt Vario crawlers have a similar transmission to 1000-series wheeled tractors. Twin hydraulic motors control the power split between hydraulic and mechanical giving variable speed control with a bias to mechanical transmission for high torque at low speeds and hydraulic at higher speeds, saving fuel. The operator can select manual mode; adjusting the engine and transmission independently or select ‘TMS’ by pressing a button on the control panel, allowing engine and transmission management by the tractor’s systems for lowest engine revs and maximum fuel economy.
Response to varying loads is adjustable. A constant engine speed can be maintained regardless of load, or allowed to reduce within pre-set limits, saving fuel.
Travel speed control is by the Vario multi-function joystick, but the operator can also select control through the foot drive pedal. “The foot pedal has advantages on the road,” explained Jordan. “On narrow lanes I can slow down while passing cars, then just depress the foot pedal again to pull away. Everything adjusts automatically leaving me free to watch the road whereas the previous Challenger with powershift needed me to concentrate on shifting from the lowest gears all the way up the range, and avoid stalling.”
Speed control sensitivity is adjustable in four stages, using a small selector on the joystick. For rapid reaction to joystick commands the selector is set to most aggressive and for more relaxed operation and a smoother ride, response is reduced.
Superb ride quality
The new Fendt tractors have an all-new track and carriage design, including suspension. ConstantGrip comprises a double pendulum within each track assembly allowing the tracks to mould around undulations, maintaining even ground pressure along their length and across the track width.
Large coil springs and shock absorbers support the chassis and provide up to 23cm vertical movement for each track, with up to 11 degrees swing angle also available, while a torque rod stabiliser ensures lateral stability.
The cab is suspended as is the seat and Fendt claims comfort and noise levels equivalent to a premium wheeled tractor.
“Ride quality is great on the road and in the field,” confirmed Jordan. “When the tractor first arrived the ground was rock hard after the long summer drought but track vibration was hardly noticeable. The improved ride means I can make the most of the power to achieve higher working speeds than before, so the tractor is more productive.”
The cab is almost identical to that of the 1000 Vario tractors including a 10.4in Varioterminal touch-screen to set up and monitor operating parameters. “It’s clear and easy to see, even in bright sunlight,” commented Jordan, “and the menus are logical so it doesn’t take long to work out how to alter the settings.”
The farm has its own RTK network and the tractors use Topcon GPS field mapping. Variotronic Turn Assistant on the new Fendt can be used to negotiate headland turns automatically, and was proving popular with Jordan.
Visibility all around was described as excellent, including to the implement at the rear and Jordan said he especially likes the mirrors, which provide excellent side and rear views on the road and of the implement in the field. Some late evening work has been carried out and the working lights are impressive.
Fuel and time savings
Mark said that although it is hard to accurately compare fuel consumption between tractors, he believes the Fendt crawler uses significantly less than the Challengers, and explained this is partly due to the low revving engine and TMS mode which makes the most of the engine’s performance. Pulling the 6m TopDown at 6–7in depth on heavy soils at 10kph, the engine was running at just 1,300, whereas Mark commented that the Challenger 765D probably couldn’t have pulled it at similar speeds, but typically required 2,100rpm in less demanding situations.
Adblue use also appears lower, added Mark, but he said both tractors require a top-up each time the diesel tank is filled. Daily checks are improved and Jordan explained that hydraulic and transmission oil levels are checked in seconds using sight gauges at the rear, and the engine oil dipstick is easy to get at without removing any covers. The cooling system is similar to the Fendt 1000-series wheeled tractors with a concentric hydraulic-driven fan pushing cool air through from the front. So far this has remained clean, even in dry, dusty working conditions.
Part of the track system’s redesign includes plastic wear discs at the rear of the centre rollers. Thurlow Nunn Standen’s Challenger and Fendt specialist Dave Lovell explained that side thrust during work forces the rubber drive lugs against the backs of the rollers and on the Challenger they could overheat, damaging the outer rubber band and causing premature failure. The new plastic wear discs help prevent heat build-up and should significantly extend working life.
Extra flexibility
The 6m TopDown on the heavy soils was a good match for the new crawler and during Farmers Guide’s visit, the cultivation depth was set to maximum to see how it affected performance. At 10in on the headlands the Fendt coped easily at 8–10kph, and its capability impressed Mark. “It didn’t struggle and the tractor continues to surprise me. We tend to be restricted during drilling using the more powerful 800-series Challenger, as we have to start in a low gear and change up again through the powershift steps after every headland turn.
“We could drill faster, but above 12kph there is a big step to the next gear as the clutch packs swap over which affects drilling performance, so that has become our maximum. However, I think the new Fendt Vario model with its CVT transmission will provide much greater flexibility and from what I have seen so far it has the power and traction to handle the drill. I think we will achieve higher work rates than were possible previously, while saving fuel and without increasing tractor size and weight.”
Investment stacks up
The Fendt was purchased with an 8-year, 8,000-hour warranty. “Previously we updated Challengers every 3 years or 3,000 hours, but with its longer warranty giving additional peace of mind we will probably keep the Fendt longer, which should help reduce ownership costs,” explained Mark.
“I’m convinced the CVT transmission will provide significant advantages for Fendt owners,” said Dave Lovell. “It’s so simple and allows users to get the most from the power available while minimising fuel use.
“Ride quality is excellent and no other tracked machine comes close for comfort. Ownership and running costs should be low and the long warranty provides reassurance. We believe the new models will be popular.”
With the Vaderstad 6m TopDown in at full 10in working depth, the Fendt didn’t struggle.
Claas demonstrated new and updated models in its harvesting ranges at a press event in early August. David Williams reports.
Claas continues to invest heavily in research and development and has announced new combines, mowers and balers promising benefits for farms of all sizes. A new control concept has been added for the mid-sized Tucano models, with even more automation to help operators of Lexion machines.
The Tucano range is extended with a new top 580 model. Claas combine product manager Adam Hayward explained that this fills the gap between the previous most powerful Tucano 570 and the larger Lexion range.
Tucano models are available with 5 or 6 straw walkers or as hybrids, with a drum separator then a rotor, and in narrow or wide body widths. For 2019 the Tucano line-up includes 13 variants, with 5 available as new Montana hill-side versions.
Engines are all from Mercedes Benz from 245–381hp meeting Tier 5 emissions standards and maximum power is available at just 1,900rpm, down from 2,000rpm.
Also, for the first time, Dynamic Power is standard. This has been available on Jaguar forage harvesters for many years, and on the Tucano it operates in a similar way to save fuel and wear and tear as power is adjusted to match demand, although operating speed remains the same. There are 10 power steps, but for unloading on the move maximum power is immediately available.
Montana versions compensate automatically for side slopes up to 16 per cent on wider body models or 18 per cent on narrower 430 and 560 variants. Final drives to the front wheels rotate hydraulically providing the height differential and an additional benefit is that both can be rotated together to provide extra table clearance for narrow gateways, allowing it to remain attached between fields.
Feeder housing adjustment up to 20 per cent allows the header to follow the ground angle while the combine remains horizontal.
Further advantages include cutting angle adjustment, allowing the table to be tilted forward to more easily pick-up laid crops by presenting the knife closer to the ground, or tilted back to reduce losses by keeping seed from over-ripe crops or oilseed rape in the header.
Hill-side models come with a 2-speed manual transmission with automatic engine load adjustment. In both gears there are 2 drive ranges, selected dependent on wheel drive loading and the speed change occurs automatically on the move maintaining traction and motion.
All-wheel drive provides up to 70 per cent more tractive power compared with standard model 4wd, through a more powerful independent hydraulic system, and a differential lock for the front axle is standard.
For further improved hill harvesting performance a 3d sieve box and auto-slope compensation by the fan are additional options, also available on standard models. Using the hill compensation system only requires the operator to select the ‘A’ button and settings are made and adjusted automatically with the actual ground angle displayed on the Cebis terminal.
“The narrow 430 is attractive to smaller farms and the new specification and availability of the Montana version will certainly add to its appeal,” said Adam.
Improved controls
The 2019 Tucano models have a new Cebis touch-screen monitor which allows performance monitoring and ease of adjustment through an intuitive screen menu. The operator has only to select the combine system to be adjusted with a tap on the image and a sub-menu opens up displaying adjustments available. Touching the relevant icon then allows the setting to be changed. Claas realises that not all operators like electronic displays so a quick-access bank of traditional switches on the new armrest allows the same range of adjustments to be made.
The Cebis screen also allows quick selection without all the menus by allowing users to set ‘favourites’ for fast recall using buttons on the CMotion joystick.
The terminal can be positioned anywhere in an arc from the user’s right knee to the right hand side. This allows it to be swung out of the way for a clear view of the full knife width, or positioned in front when constant attention to settings is preferred.
Auto Crop Flow, available previously only on Lexion models is added to the Tucano options list. Sensors measure the APS drum, residual grain separation system, straw chopper and engine and automatically react to overloading by stopping the header and intake elevator, while alerting the user. This allows operators to confidently push the combine to work at higher outputs without fear of blocking the threshing or separation systems.
Higher grain capacity
Grain tank capacity up to 11,000 litres is available on the new range, including on the largest Tucano 580 Montana, and even the smallest Tucano 320 has either 6,500 or 7,500 litres available. A further update is an automatic unloading auger flap which engages when the auger is stopped, preventing grain spillage even when the auger is still full.
For 2019 additional benefits of the latest Tucanos include;
Grain feeder housing dust extraction, improving visibility in dusty conditions and particularly at night.
Returns information displayed on the Cebis screen allowing assessment alongside grain losses.
Increased tool and spare part storage space.
Larger maintenance panels for improved service access and an on-board water tank allowing hands to be washed in the field.
Automation adds output
Cemos combine automation was launched by Claas in 2012 and precision farming product manager Edward Miller said it is now in its third generation with take-up increasing each year. “It costs extra but we have seen a strong trend for those who have had it, specifying it again when combines are updated,” he explained. Advantages include reduced working costs due to higher output and saved time, improved grain quality, better performance in the field – particularly operating in laid crops – and constant performance optimisation all day, where an operator eventually becomes tired. “It doesn’t replace an operator,” he added. “It helps those with less experience make the most of the combine’s potential and experienced operators like it as it helps them fine-tune the harvesting operation.
“Overall, when we compare combines working in all countries with Cemos against identical machines without, we see 15–18 per cent improved output.”
A new 12in high-resolution touchscreen version of the Cebis Mobile terminal is available for 700 Hybrid and 600 straw-walker models allowing easier and faster set-up and improved performance monitoring. A silhouette of the combine includes settings for the main function areas such as the rotor and fan speed, grain moisture content and grain tank fill level in progressive steps. “Accurate grain tank level information is especially useful for those using our Fleetview system for fleet management as trailer drivers are kept informed of when they will be needed,” added Edward.
Slider controls on the screen allow the operator to set the Cemos system to prioritise grain quality, straw quality or throughput.
The new Cebis Mobile terminal is also used to monitor 4D cleaning and to set up and monitor results from the grain quality camera, mounted at the elevator head. The camera records images at intervals up to one per second which are analysed to identify broken grains and foreign bodies including un-threshed heads. An image of the grain sample is displayed with damaged grains or chaff highlighted in pink and blue and by touching the screen the operator opens a second window allowing system sensitivity to be altered, for increased or decreased threshing and cleaning.
The screen also displays Cruise Pilot status. Cruise Pilot automatically adjusts operating speed up to the limit set depending on crop volume in the feeder housing, throughput in t/hr and engine load, with all parameters displayed.
Factors limiting performance are highlighted and the operating mode can be set to constant speed, constant throughput or constant throughput with losses.
Automated control
Optional Cemos Automatic comprises three modules. Cemos Auto Cleaning is available for all Lexion 600 and 700 models and a new option is Auto Threshing. Lexion 700 models can also have Cemos Auto Separation.
Auto Threshing works with Cruise Pilot and the other Cemos modules when fitted, to adjust drum speed and concave gap. Taking a basic crop setting as the start point, Auto Threshing then finds the ideal drum speed and concave setting to thresh the crop, but keeps the action as gentle as possible.
Auto Cleaning works with the grain quality camera and automatically adjusts the fan speed and upper and lower sieves constantly to maintain optimum grain quality. Four operating strategies can be set; Maximum Throughput, Optimum Fuel Consumption, High Grain Quality or a combination of all three.
Auto Separation on 700 Hybrid models automatically adjusts rotor speed and cover plates depending on the operating priority selected. Cemos Auto Separation reacts and adjusts settings constantly for optimum performance.
A demonstration of the system on a Lexion 780 proved the benefits. The sloping field of wheat appeared an even crop but from one side of the field to the other the automatic threshing system varied the drum speed and concave gap as variations in the numbers of broken grains or un-threshed heads were detected. Unless the images were inspected very closely there was little difference detectable by eye, but the combine’s system is more thorough, identifying minute variations. What is comforting for the operator is that the image quality on the high-resolution screen is clear enough to see each grain, so there is no need to constantly check the grain tank contents.
Balers updated
New model Rollant 540 fixed chamber round balers have a stronger chassis and new roller design, improving durability and improving bale formation. There are three variants, all suitable for demanding farm or contractor use, including the 540RF (Roto Feed), 540RC (Roto Cut) and 540RC (Comfort).
Bale size is 1.25m diameter and 1.22m wide made in a chamber with 15 rollers, all constructed from 4mm steel.
The 15 rollers have a modular build, with new bolted stub shafts, and a serrated profile for efficient bale gripping even in wet conditions and the Claas MaxPressure System (MPS 2) is an option, with rollers 7, 8 and 9 on a pivot mounting to apply pressure earlier in the bale forming cycle for improved density.
An improved rear door fastening system, with closing rams horizontally mounted at the sides, has been introduced to cope with the higher pressures and ensure perfect bale formation.
The rollers are driven from the left side with direct drive for uniform force distribution. Chains are 1.25in to the rotor and main drive and the tailgate rollers have a 1in chain. Bearings are upgraded over previous 374 and 375 models.
Central lubrication is an option, but for manual greasing most grease points are grouped in blocks.
The pick-up is 2.1m as before and the well-proven double crop roller is now joined by additional options of a single roller or baffle plate at reduced cost. “We have always found users get on particularly well with the double roller but where it isn’t needed the new options provide a cost-effective alternative,” explained product specialist Dean Cottey.
For bale wrapping the net system has a new brake, and the new RC Comfort model can be used with net or film wrap. Changing between the two takes under 10 minutes. “Film holds the bale shape better during handling, and gives added protection,” explained Dean. “Additional advantages are that it can be disposed of with the plastic wrap rather than having to separate the net from the film, and it also wastes less of the crop as it comes away clean rather than with material stuck to it. That is likely to be a valuable benefit this year when fodder and bedding are in short supply.”
Stronger construction includes a 80mm full width beam axle replacing previous bolt-on stub axles and a wider range of tyres as well as air or hydraulic braking.
Control is by the standard Operator terminal but options include the Communicator or full management from the tractor’s Isobus link. An iPad can also be used through a free Claas app. Settings can be altered from the cab including net delay and the drop-floor, but the Comfort specification also allows the number of net layers to be set, the net brake to be adjusted and the number of chopping knives to be selected, all from the seat.
Faster mowing
A new front-mounted Disco mower was displayed at the event. The Claas Disco Move offers superb ground contour following and mounts on an A-frame allowing rapid hitching and unhitching from the tractor or direct hitching to the tractor front link arms. For unhitching, the mower suspension is isolated using a selector lever and for re-hitching a simple pair of arrows have to be matched so that the tractor’s front linkage arms are the correct height.
The headstock is narrow allowing great forward visibility. Active Float suspension is standard, integrated within the main frame and allowing ground pressure to be adjusted to suit the conditions. The new suspension allows mower travel up and down to 1,000mm, independent of the front linkage.
The mower is pulled from the front, with low mounted arms inclined at a low angle for smooth operation. Two pre-series mowers have operated in the UK and Dean said feedback from users has been very positive, including one saying the design allowed perfect cutting even at speeds up to 20kph.
Jaguar flagship
A new flagship to the Jaguar 800-series forage harvester range has been added for next year. The 800-series was introduced 25 years ago including models from 300–500hp but the new 880 tops the 2019 line-up with 626hp from a 15.6-litre Mercedes Benz power unit.
Dean Cottey said the new model provides an alternative for those needing high capacity and has the same engine as the Jaguar 960 but will suit those who don’t want to move up to the physically larger 900-series.
The new model is ideally suited to livestock farms and contractors producing silage for livestock feed with a chop length of 9–10mm and longer.
Three pre-series models have operated for the 2017 and 2018 seasons having replaced previous 492 and 496 models, and harvesting grass, wholecrop and maize. Dean said they have performed well against previous models.
Potential higher maize yields through optimum plant spacing attracted East Anglian farmers and contractors to a drill demonstration organised by Ernest Doe and Lemken. David Williams was there.
Lemken’s Azurit maize drill was first shown to the press in autumn 2015 and is designed to optimise maize population and yields by planting seeds in double rows to provide maximum growing space for each plant. Extensive trials in mainland Europe during development and since its launch have proved successful. This year four Azurit drills are working in the UK to establish the crop, two of which are demonstration machines and attracting considerable interest from potential users.
DeltaRow seeding
The DeltaRow seeding system includes a pair of residue wheels ahead of the coulter to clear trash followed by a fertiliser coulter, which applies nutrients between the twin seed rows. A trailing trapeze packer closes the fertiliser groove and rings consolidate the furrows.
Seeds are supplied to the singling units ‘on-demand’ and two synchronised perforated discs with adjustable mechanical or optional automatic scrapers distribute seed alternately to the two double-disc coulters of the seeding unit resulting in a repeated triangular seeding pattern.
Spacing between the seed rows is 12.5cm and space between each double row is adjustable between 37.5–87.5cm. Establishment by the DeltaRow system provides approximately 70 per cent increased growing area compared with conventional single-row planting, explains Lemken UK general manager Paul Creasy. To ensure seeds are spaced accurately the singulation units sit above the coulters providing a short 60cm direct drop down the seed tubes.
Ten-step hydraulic coulter pressure adjustment provides up to 135kg per unit and seeding depth is regulated by a large solid depth wheel between the coulter pairs. A V-shaped roller closes the seed rows and provides consolidation.
An advantage of the dual seeding units is that each singling disc only handles half the number of seeds of a conventional planter, allowing smaller discs revolving at lower circumferential speeds to be used, improving accuracy.
At Lemken’s press launch Azurit product specialist Lena Busch said almost perfect accuracy has been achieved in trials at up to 18kph, although more typical drilling speeds have averaged 12–15kph. “From the start of development our objective was to achieve 100 per cent accuracy,” she explained.
Because the double seed rows are wider than conventional single rows, where each tramline occurs the row closest to the wheeling is switched off, when an optional electric seed scraper is specified. However, rather than lose potential yield through reduced plant numbers the opposite disc rotates at twice the normal speed to maintain the population per hectare. An obvious concern of potential contractors regarding the wider plant rows is compatibility with harvester headers but during trials all header types have proved suitable.
“The Azurit drill is designed especially for maize and our trading area includes many large-scale growers including farmers and contractors,” explained Ernest Doe Wymondham branch sales manager Ross Johnson. “The weather on the demonstration day was ideal for maize drilling, but with more unsettled weather and rain expected, growers were under pressure to make the most of their own drilling opportunities.
Lemken’s DeltaRow concept and its potential for extra yield is very attractive and while those who came were keen to inspect the rows and check the seed spacing and positioning for themselves, many who couldn’t make it are planning to travel to the field to check the emergence in a few weeks’ time. Visitors were from as far afield as south Essex, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk as well as Suffolk, and we have a lot of enquiries to follow up in the coming weeks. This drill gives us a full package to offer professional growers from planting, to harvesting by our New Holland Forage Cruisers all backed up by unbeatable after-sales service.”
New Holland Agriculture showcased their diverse range of products at Cereals on 12th – 13th June 2019 as well as at the Royal Highland show on 20th – 23th June 2019. This included updates to its telehandler range and its new range of implements, of which many farmers will see for the first time. Harvesting machinery, construction equipment and a range of tractors including the 6 cylinder T6.180 Dynamic Command Tractor were also on display.
Celebrating combine and tractor heritage
Heritage is a significant theme to this year’s events. New Holland is celebrating 60 years since the first yellow combine harvester was sold in the UK, and to mark the occasion and to represent how far the machinery industry has come, the Brand commissioned a painting by Steven Binks, which was on display at the stand. To celebrate 100 years of both Ford and Fiat Tractor Heritage, there was a special edition of T6.180 Dynamic Command tractor that was presented on stand in a special livery.
New Holland presents a host of new implements, extending its hay & forage and crop production ranges to offer customers a wider choice of complete solutions
Following the acquisition of Kongskilde Agriculture and the first launch of branded implements at the Agritechnica 2017 fair, New Holland gradually integrated agricultural implements into its product offering and launched a host of new implements at the SIMA 2019, extending its hay & forage and crop production ranges to offer customers a wider choice of complete solutions and to deliver all-round agricultural solutions that maximise efficiency and productivity.
The brand now offers a full range of implements for hay and foraging operations that includes a front and rear mounted mowers as well as lateral and central pull trailed versions, mounted and trailed tedders, and side and central delivery rakes. New Holland also entered the tillage business with soil equipment painted in New Holland tractor blue. First introduced was the 6 furrow PXV heavy duty fully mounted plough with variable width, as well as the RVM rotary tiller with gear side drive. The range was then recently expanded to include new Side Mounted Combi Wheel and PL light plough.
New TH Series telehandlers features extended offering and new transmission
New Holland Agriculture extended and upgraded its six to nine meter telehandler offering, introducing a new naming and livery. The new naming consists of the TH letters, for Telescopic Handler, and the numbering based on the key machine specifications. The TH Series has been extended to offer 6 models and 14 versions. The entry level S version is available on the TH6.32 and TH7.32, followed by the Classis, Plus and Elite versions, all equipped with a brand new transmission with electronic modulation that ensures enhanced shifting and shuttling modulation.
New T6 models consolidate New Holland’s leadership of the segment’s 6-cylinder tractors
New Holland Agriculture further widened the extensive T6 range with 3 new 6-cylinder models: the T6.180 Auto Command™, the T6.180 Dynamic Command™, and the new T6.160 Electro Command that was presented to the public for the first time at SIMA 2019.
With the T6 new models proudly made in the Basildon factory, New Holland consolidates its historical leadership of 6-cylinder tractors in the 100-150 hp segment, built on a heritage dating back to the Ford 10 Series and 40 Series through to the T6 introduced in 2013. Today New Holland is the only brand to offer a 6-cylinder tractor in this segment.
As an additional key feature, to get customers in the driving seat on the stands, New Holland will have the Dynamic Command tractor simulator running, giving the opportunity to operators to try out the latest technology and experience what it is like to be behind the wheel.
