Agritechnica 2019

Almost 3,000 exhibitors spread across 23 halls – for anyone with an interest in agricultural machinery and technology Agritechnica is the event to visit. David Williams was there.

The biennial show in Hanover in early November, takes place over seven days and attracts exhibitors and buyers from around the world. Most stands feature something new, and many European manufacturers use the show to launch new products and innovations. With the growing use of computerisation and data management by farm businesses, this year’s show theme was connectivity, and most stands featured tractors and machines with a spider’s web of lines symbolising data transfer.

A large number of UK farmers attended the 2019 event, and those interviewed by Farmers Guide said they found it particularly useful,

UK-manufactured track system

Sly Agriculture displayed its IMTS 2W-457 multi-use track system which is manufactured in the UK. “We supply OE and end users,” explained managing director George Sly who is pictured with the track assembly. “There is growing interest in solutions to reduce ground pressure and protect soils, and which also allow  eld operations such as harvesting to continue when conditions are too wet for tyres.” featuring plenty of new products relevant to their farm businesses. There were many show highlights – a selection of which are featured in the following pages – but Krone’s latest innovation allowing forage harvester owners to ‘hire’ extra horsepower for their machines from an online shopping trolley is an example of what might be more widely possible in future (see page 32 for more information). The show’s huge attendance means that getting to and staying in Hanover for the event isn’t cheap, and entry tickets for the show itself are pricey. The biennial frequency seems to be part of the show’s success, where exhibitors and visitors are prepared to invest for the future. And, even though current uncertainty regarding the UK agricultural industry means potential buyers are cautious, those who attended will have seen concepts and products likely to become available during the next two years, which could increase pro tability and e ciency of their farm operations. FG

Loaders updated

New M-series mid-size Bobcat skid-steer loaders were displayed. Five models include three wheeled and two with tracks.

The new loaders are the same size as current variants but have updated engines with 37 per cent extra torque, more power and o ering quieter operation.

Also displayed was a concept quad-tracked skid-steer loader. The track units are made by Bobcat and bolt on in place of the wheels, allowing easy swapping between wheel or track units to suit the application. There is potential for them to be available for any model in the range, depending on demand.

Pictured next to the S70 with the new track units is product manager for loaders, Jiri Karmazin.

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Higher density baler

A new high-density large square baler attracted a lot of interest on the Case IH stand.

The LB436HD produces bales up to 22 per cent denser than the LB434 XL model which produces the same 120 x 90cm bale size. To handle the high density a brand new knotter was developed. TwinePro is claimed to boost productivity by making tighter knots and uses less twine.

Pictured with the new baler, which was awarded one of the Machine of the Year accolades at the event, are (l-r) Case IH dealer Nicholsons Stalham Engineering managing director Tony Nicholson; the dealer’s Case IH specialist Kevin Chubbock; and Case IH product marketing specialist Ross Macdonald “We are excited by the new baler which will suit our customers’ needs,” said Tony. “Getting more straw on each lorry load improves the e ciency of a baling operation and this new baler will also reduce the amount of bale twine used each season.”

The dealer took on the Case IH franchise two years ago, and Tony said the move had been very successful with more than 50 new tractors sold to date, and several large square balers.”

Upgraded tractor spec

Latest generation M7003-series tractors were displayed by Kubota for the  rst time and will replace M7002 models from spring 2020. The new models feature Kubota engines of 130, 150 and 170hp (max) and with 5–20hp boost, and transmission choice includes CVT on KVT variants and powershift. The engines meet Stage 5 emissions regulations, and the e cient engine design and clean operation allow a DPF service life of up to 6,000 hours.

New features increasing productivity include variable rate steering in three stages. Powershift models now come with Xpress restart which provides automatic clutch activation when the brake pedal is pressed, improving cycle times and ease of use for tasks such as loader work.

Climate control is a new option and there are various LED lighting packs. A broader choice of wheel and tyre options includes new 710/55R38 rears. New for the KVT models is TIM technology which allows control of tractor functions by compatible Isobus-linked implements.

“Since introducing the M7000-series tractors we have seen increased demand across the UK,” explained agricultural product manager Luke Sellwood, pictured with the new model. “Sales have been predominantly to mixed farms and have also included  eet orders to vegetable producers attracted by the low running and ownership costs. We o er warranty packages and have an excellent dealer network, with sales and service sta con dent in our products and the back-up available. Feedback from users has been very positive regarding the comfort and  nish of the latest cabs.”

Indian tyre manufacturer BKT displayed several new tyres at the event, explaining that developing tyres capable of operation at reduced pressures while also suitable for high-speed road transport tasks has been a recent priority. The V-Flexa tyre is steel-belted for durability and capable of operating at 30 per cent less pressure than a standard tyre. It also o ers exceptional load distribution to help protect soils, explained the company. Another new tyre was the FL633 Performa which also has steel belt construction and o ers superior performance for  eld and road use. It is rated for speeds up to 100kph and is currently available only in 600/50R22.5 size.

BKT president and director of technology Dilip Vaidya is pictured with a trailer  tted with the V-Flexa tyres and he spoke with Farmers Guide about the addition of rubber tracks into BKT’s tyre equipment line-up. Commercial manufacturing will start this summer following  nal testing this spring. First customers to bene t from the rubber tracks will be Indian rice growers, and the tracks will be available to end users and OEM. “Quality will be premium,” explained Mr Vaidya, “but our tracks will o er excellent value for the investment. The  rst size will be 450-90-60, with others added later.”

Truck mobility increased

A Silver Medal for Innovation was awarded to Alliance Tyres for its new 398HS  otation truck tyre. “It’s unique in that it allows trucks to travel on  elds while also being suitable for high speed road use,” explained ATG public communications manager Julia Verbunt who is pictured with the Award and the new tyre. “Often when trucks are used to transport produce to the store, tractors and trailers are needed for  eld transport between the harvester and lorry. Our new tyre is fully agricultural with grip for muddy conditions and it can operate down to just 0.6-bar, reducing compaction and soil damage. With on-board tyre pressure adjustment, the tyres can be re-in ated to 6.5-bar for comfortable road transport at 100kph.”

Oppel wheel option

On the Holmer stand a new Oppel wheel option for Terra Dos T4-30 and T4-40 beet harvesters can replace the standard lifting shares. The company explained that, for most conditions, shares are the preferred lifting system but, in very heavy or very light soils, Oppel wheels can o er advantages.

4m front mower Road transport width restrictions in the UK mean mower choice is usually limited to models below 3.5m, but Krone has announced a new 4m model fully compatible with UK transport rules. To achieve a 3m transport width the two end cutter units fold back behind the mower. Because they pivot around the vertical drive shaft, blade timing is una ected. Production for 2020 is very limited, with availability increasing for 2021. “Tractors have become larger and wider, so often 3m mowers don’t even match the overall wheel width, and users fail to achieve maximum bene t from triple sets,” commented James Duggleby (pictured). “With a true 4m cutting width available, the new F400 CV Fold front-mounted mower allows rear units to be moved out to achieve maximum working width, increasing work rates and productivity.”

Optimising pressures

Michelin customer engineering support manager for the Nordic countries, Aage Boller is pictured with new Axiobib 2 tyres at the show. “We displayed the  rst IF tyres in 2007, with the ability to transport the same loads at the same speeds as conventional tyres, but at 20 per cent reduced pressure,” he explained. “Our  rst VF tyre was launched in 2003, with the ability to reduce pressures by up to 40 per cent and now the VF technology is available in the Axiobib 2, with Ultra ex technology and which will replace the Axiobib.”

Also displayed by Michelin was the Zen@Terra Central Tyre In ation System (CTIS). The customer supplies machine details, tyre dimensions by position and conditions of use, which are then used by Michelin to pre-programme the system for various tasks. The machine operator simply selects a symbol that corresponds to the type of work to be completed, then the Isobus-linked tyre in ation pressure control system sets bespoke optimum tyre pressures for  eld and road use, and adjusts the tyre in ation pressures accordingly.

Cost-e ective solution

UK-based Agricision provides innovative entry-level GPS guidance products and was promoting latest upgrades, including satellite imagery which enables users to view areas worked in relation to visible  eld boundaries. “It’s easier to see the work area and coverage, especially for tasks such as establishing game cover,” explained director Adam Keene (pictured far right) with Alan Keene and Natalie Fiquepron, who were assisting on the stand. Future company developments include cloud-based work recordkeeping, allowing data to be shared between authorised users. The new cloud-storage option allows  eld boundaries, A-B lines and  eld coverage information to be shared between multiple machines in real-time.

“We have over 1,000 users now who appreciate the simple installation, easy swapping between machines and low cost,” said Adam.

Environment and cost bene ts

New Holland celebrated winning the new Sustainable Tractor of the Year title, which was awarded for the  rst time. CNH global product manager Mark Howell is pictured with the company’s methane-powered tractor which has been in development for several years and will be available to purchase shortly. Based on a conventional T6 tractor, but with a sparkignition engine replacing the standard diesel unit, the tractor has gas storage tank options to hold enough fuel for a full day’s work. During testing, a 5.9-litre engine similar to that used in Ford EuroCargo trucks provided the power, but production machines will feature a new 6.7-litre power unit producing extra power and torque. “Interest has been from biogas producers as the tractors can be fuelled by gas produced onsite, but also from vegetable growers and municipalities where reduced environmental footprints are valued,” explained Mark. “We have been approached by  eet users where signi cant cost advantages are available. Even for those prioritising environmental bene ts, reducing costs to maximise pro ts is essential.”

Vineyard and orchard tractor

A new model on Valtra’s show stand has extended the line-up from four to  ve variants.

The new F-series is designed for vineyards and orchards and includes models from 75–100hp, starting with an extra-narrow model only 1.3m wide.

A heated and airconditioned cab is standard, and wider models are also available with an open cab and ROPS. Height of the open cab version is only 1.4m making it ideal for working under frames and low branches.

A 24-speed transmission is standard with mechanical or power shuttle and powershift. Hydraulic supply is 68–100-litres/min depending on model. The new F-series will be available from early 2020.

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Kramer telehandlers 6 m to 9 m stacking height: sturdy, versatile, efficient. Whether it’s the compact all-rounders or the larger ranges maximum capacity’s, all eleven models are made for the versatile tasks found on farms. The telehandlers are characterized by their high level of ergonomics and technical refinement.

Displayed beside the Massey Ferguson Next concept tractor (page 38) were Next-branded 7000 and 5000 S-series models, which are available at no extra charge in black, or red and black colour schemes. “The new styling links the current product line up to future models,” explained national sales manager for tractors and telehandlers, Joe Ford. “Both series are due to be updated; the 7020–7026-models in 2020, and the 5011– 5013 variants later.”

Silver for camera

Grimme displayed its latest two-row belt planter with a 3t bunker. The version displayed was a trailed unit, but a linkage-mounted model is available with a smaller bunker. Pictured with the new planter are (l-r) UK sales manager Tom Goose, managing director Graf Grote and export manager Alexander Stark. The new SmartView camera system (inset) was also shown by the company, allowing up to eight pictures to be displayed on a 12in touch-screen. The in-house designed system allows users to zoom in and out within individual images and save settings for permanent display. Slow motion and recording are also possible. Images can be shared by users monitoring performance nearby through the machinegenerated SmartConnect Wi-Fi network. This allows data to be viewed through a smartphone or iPad. SmartView won a Silver Medal at the event.

Displayed for the  rst time, the new 5700M-series includes  ve models from 95–135hp. Massey Ferguson has adopted a new letter designation for its tractors with M representing medium speci cation and S used for premium variants. The current 57 and 67 Global series tractors will all be designated 57M-series and the new  ve-model line-up will have a choice of manual or Dyna-4 transmissions, and mechanical or power-shuttle.

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Discs ideal

UK-based sprayer manufacturer Landquip added Lozora cultivation products to its machinery line-up last summer, and managing director Richard Abbott explained that the brand’s build quality and design makes it attractive to UK farmers. A collaboration between the manufacturers sees Ukraine-based Lozora manufacturing Landquip sprayers under licence for the Russian market, while Richard’s long-established UK business provides an ideal platform for supplying the Lozora range. “Lozora discs are probably the main products with appeal to professional UK growers, and Ducat models include 5m trailed and 3m mounted versions which we have available for demonstration. The larger Ducat Gold disc harrow is for intense deep cultivation with up to 270kg available from each disc unit to assist penetration,” said Richard. “The 8m version is too wide for UK road transport, but the 6m model is ideal, folding to under 3m. The thorough cultivation means seedbeds can often be created in a single pass, and with superb stubble and trash chopping capability, it’s an ideal tool for maize growers.”

Richard said the company also manufactures inter-row cultivators in 6, 9 and 12m working widths. “These are attractive to organic growers using wider row spacing,” he explained. “Later we will add automatic guidance and steering options to broaden their appeal.”

Ploughs upgraded Product updates from Kverneland included a new generation of 2300S and 3300S mounted ploughs, gaining features from the  agship i-Plough range. These include a new Aero-pro le leg assembly increasing under beam clearance to 80cm, making them ideal for high trash situations. The leg’s rounded pro le has a wider front section tapering to the rear for reduced drag and wear, and the leg is hollow, reducing the weight but making it stronger than before. The body mounting provides a larger clearance between the mouldboard and leg to reduce wear. Kverneland smart skimmer adjustment is provided, through which one adjustment point allows setting of the top and bottom simultaneously.

A new frame-mounted depth wheel is available to replace the standard tail wheel, with manual or hydraulic depth adjustment.

New bodies have been added, including the ‘38’ which is a deeper version of the ‘28’ body for working down to 38cm, and also provides extra twist for improved soil inversion.

The updates are only available currently on auto-reset models – which also gain stronger but lighter springs, with bolt-protected versions due for update later.

Semi-mounted ploughs in the 6300 series replace previous PB-series models, are available with 5–8 furrows and also bene t from upgrades including the Aero-pro le legs.

Pictured on the stand with one of the new 3300S mounted ploughs are Su olk-based Forrest Farms farm foreman Rob Hale, farmer James Forrest and Kverneland product manager Adam Burtam.

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€25,000 challenge

Making a surprise appearance on John Deere’s stand was a new  agship combine – the X9. O ering performance over and above the current largest S-series models, all that was revealed at the show was that the combine is a full rotary with twin rotors, and that it can harvest more than 100t/hr with less than one per cent grain loss. It is claimed to have the widest separation channel in the industry but remains within the 3.5m standard combine transport width, whether on wheels or tracks.

The cab (inset) is similar to the S-series, but with additional features and a layout design similar to the latest 8R tractor models which were also unveiled on the stand. Harvesting product specialist Carsten Heftrig told Farmers Guide that development has taken more than 10 years, and that the new HDX Draper 45ft header displayed on the front is an ideal match for the X9.

The new header was designed for European farms and features a 1.2m deep belt with a patterned surface pro le to prevent the loss of escaping small seeds such as oilseed rape. He would not comment on whether larger or smaller versions of the new combine or table would also be available, but when asked about maximum performance he pointed to the latest John Deere challenge, guaranteeing harvesting performance with minimum losses, with a €25,000 reward on o er.

The X9 will be available to order from harvest 2020 with deliveries commencing in 2021.

Automatic control

Also displayed on Kverneland’s stand was the new Turbo T i-Tiller; available in 6.5–8m versions. Tines are spaced at 19cm, allowing deep cultivations to be carried out e ectively with the standard tines or, for extra shallow cultivation, winged tines can be  tted for full-width soil movement.

Electronic control of every aspect of operation includes depth, angle and levelling. The weight transfer system operates automatically using wheel sensors for ground pressure monitoring, maintaining constant weight on the tractor rear without lifting the machine out of work.

The front drawbar pivots have sensors monitoring respective left- and right-hand draft forces, and if the user turns too tightly with the machine deep in the ground, creating excessive stress and risking damage, the cultivation elements lift automatically out of work.

The electronic control provides opportunities for advanced automation including depth control using data from soil compaction maps, allowing issues to be tackled while saving fuel, metal wear, and time.

Pictured with the new i-Tiller are arable systems product manager David Holmes and service and product manager Florian Herbreteau. McHale launched new V6-series balers – the V6-740 and the V6-750 which includes a chopper. The new models feature a revised design including panels which hinge up for improved service access.

A  ve-tine pick-up is standard with six tines an option. A highperformance pump-driven netter is standard. The balers have three belts, and there is also a single belt option. A standard pro le bale kicker is provided but a channel bale kicker can be speci ed.

Chopper options for the V6-750 include 15- or 25-knife – with selectable chopping.

Marketing executive Eoin Clarke (pictured above) said the new balers will attract professional users looking for a high-end belt baler, producing large numbers of silage or straw bales.

Manufacturer-led data sharing

DataConnect was promoted heavily by Claas. A three-way collaboration between Claas, John Deere and 365FarmNet, DataConnect is designed for mixed machinery  eets and is claimed to be the  rst direct manufacturer cloud-to-cloud data management solution. It is open to all data providers to sign up to, with CNHi (New Holland and Case IH) and Steyr having signed up since its o cial launch in the summer. Previously, users of di erent manufacturerdedicated systems had to download data from each manufacturer portal, then load the  les into farm management programmes to use it. With the owners’ consent, DataConnect automatically links the di erent portals and makes the information available through a common interface. Each manufacturer system remains available to use, with all the data stored there, but the new system means information exchange can be achieved in real-time for e cient  eet and business management. As an example, John Deere machines can be seen in Claas’ telematics system and vice versa.

Claas UK Easy product manager Edward Miller (pictured) explained that initially only task information will be available (machine tracks, working status, fuel tank level), and for speci c machine records including service requirements and fuel consumption data, users will still need to log into the speci c manufacturer portal. However, additional features will be added to provide an almost total solution in time. “DataConnect simpli es things for users, providing what has been needed for some time – all the data available in one place of the customer’s choosing,” he added. Claas also announced a direct link between its telematics platform and MySOYL and Omnia farm management packages. This, when enabled by the user, will automatically transfer task data created by telematics to the connected package. Connections to other farm management packages will follow. Other news on the stand included a tracked Xerion option. Using Zuidberg track units, the Xerion TS is supplied from the factory track-ready, including a modi ed frame and chassis arrangement. Other news regarding the Xerion line-up includes a new Xerion 4200 replacing the previous base 4000 model, with 462hp which is 27hp up on the previous model. Latest 4500 and 5000 models both gain additional torque.

Krone BigX forage harvester updates include steering by joystick. The current multi-function joystick on the right retains its existing functions, but on the left armrest a smaller dedicated steering joystick can be specified for field use. No date for availability was specified.

Also new for Big X harvesters equipped with a SmartConnect Box – standard on all current models – is the availability of additional performance and economy functions through the company’s website. The owner simply logs in to the Krone portal, selects his machine and then a menu of available functions is displayed, with prices. Those wanted are placed in the shopping trolley and the user checks out, then the new functions are sent to the machine wirelessly.

Those available online include Constant Power, Xtra Power and Power Split, along with fuel consumption mapping. For other implements such as mowers and rakes, section control can be selected and purchased.

One intriguing opportunity for owners of BigX 680 models is the ability to rent an additional 50 or 100hp to equal the output of a BigX 780. Both share the same engine, and the user simply selects and pays for the upgraded hours needed. The purchased hours are only used when additional power is selected, so for lighter work or transport, there is no extra operating cost.

Sprayer for the UK

The first showing of Lemken’s Nova 14 self-propelled sprayer created plenty of interest. Designed from a clean sheet, the new sprayer is ideally suited to UK farms and the views of many potential users were obtained during initial market research, explained Lemken UK general sales manager Paul Creasy (pictured).

The Nova 14 has a Deutz 245hp engine and hydrostatic drive through Poclain wheel motors on height- and width-adjustable axles. Maximum travel speed is 50kph. The heavy-duty running gear means the sprayer is rated for towed loads up to 16t.

Tank volumes are 4,800 or 7,200 litres and boom widths are 24–39m. The aluminum booms are manufactured for Lemken by Pommier and the widest 39m version weighs in at under 1t. Control is through CCI800 or CCI1200 terminals and Agrirouter software enables wireless data transfer between the sprayer and farm office, and to authorised third parties.

The Nova 14 is the only self-propelled sprayer with a Krone-sourced cab and offers exceptional comfort, explained Paul, adding that large farm sprayers often accumulate more annual working hours than combine harvesters or forage harvesters.

One Nova 14 sprayer will arrive in the UK in summer 2020, and is already ordered, and there will be limited availability for 2021 with full production from later that year.

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Ropa’s new Tiger 6S sugar beet harvester is completing testing this season and will be available for harvest 2020. The main update is a new cab layout with two 12in displays feeding information to the operator and a new control panel layout with interactive touch-pad buttons. Digital cameras are standard, providing superior image quality for monitoring performance. Joystick control buttons on the right armrest are programmable, and on the left armrest a dedicated joystick is for unloading. The R-Soil Protect hydraulic chassis has slope and roll stabilisation, and a new three-axis gyroscope improves angle monitoring for precise adjustment.

New tine design for heavy-duty harrow

An all-new heavy-duty tine harrow was launched by Vaderstad. The NZ Extreme is available in 12.5 and 14.5m working widths and capable of creating an ideal seedbed with high work rates, explained the company. New tines have been developed to break up resistant clods with a durable rigid construction and intense vibrating action. A  ve-section frame provides excellent ground contour following and the harrow incorporates an innovative weight transfer system to optimise traction.

Trelleborg launched its CTIS+ on-board tyre in ation system. Also displayed on the Massey Ferguson Next concept tractor (see page 38), CTIS+ in ates the tyres to recommended pressures suggested through the TLC app load calculator, explained Joscheba Schnetter (pictured). The user sets the tyre size and machine details, and sensors constantly monitor tyre performance and compare pressures to those recommended by the app, displaying the results on an in-cab controller. A clever feature is that no external pipework is needed as air is supplied to the tyres through a hub-mounted rotary manifold with a specially designed seal. CTIS+ is available for OE supply only, and will be available from summer 2020.

Combine Challenge

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Perkins launched a new engine at the event. The 2.2-litre power unit  lls a gap in the Syncro range, increasing the line-up to two tractor engine models and two industrial models from 1.7–3.6-litre capacity. Syncro engine product marketing manager Alex Eden explained that there is already a lead manufacturer lined up for OE supply of the new power unit. “It’s for frameless tractors, includes a structural sump and the crankcase has a waisted pro le allowing space for a tight steering lock. T turbo and TA turbo with aftercooling versions will be available, o ering power output between 35–55kW.

Also announced by Perkins was news of aftermarket developments. Marketing manager Siobhan Scott, pictured with Alex and the new Syncro 2.2-litre engine, explained that the current tough  nancial climate means many farmers carry out basic maintenance on the farm, and the company’s SmartCap and new MyEngine app can help them achieve this. “Fitting a SmartCap just requires replacing the oil  ller cap, then the SmartCap monitors vibrations and records the data, allowing users to see on the app when servicing is needed,” she said. “It’s also possible to allow third parties to access the data, including trusted service engineers so they can see what is needed and when. Ad-hoc entries can be added including when parts are replaced or if issues occur, for a full engine service history. Recent additions include service, maintenance and workshop manuals for speci c engine models through the app, including parts selection and ordering for supply through the preferred dealer. Because the app is constantly updated the latest parts information is shown, avoiding errors which could result in extra downtime.”

The app covers all engines with Tier 3 exhaust emissions and below, while manuals for later engines are available through dealers due to the advanced technology included. A SmartCap costs just £40.

Seventy per cent drift reduction

New innovations on the Trimble stand included MagGrow, which has become a Trimble select partner. Its products are available through the Trimble Vantage dealer network in the UK. MagGrow sounds too good to be true – improving spray application coverage and chemical e cacy without additional chemicals or new nozzle technology, but trials over  ve years have demonstrated bene ts including 20–50 per cent increased plant coverage, up to 50 per cent reduced water use, and up to 70 per cent reduced spray drift.

MagGrow is a pack of eight manifolds made up of magnetic rods through which the spray  uid passes on its way to the boom. The extremely powerful magnets alter the liquid’s physical properties so that it covers and sticks to plants. No maintenance is needed, and apart from adding the magnet pack into the spray supply line, there is no change needed to sprayers.

Pictured holding one of the magnetic manifolds are MagGrow head of sales support Brian Gorham and branded marketing manager Jemma Burke.

An all-new telehandler was launched by Fendt,  lling a gap in its product line-up.

The  rst model to become available includes a typical Fendt high speci cation with 5.5t lift capacity, maximum 8.5m lift height and a unique lifting cab for signi cantly improved vision for tasks such as loading trailers and hoppers. The cab lifts to 4.25m, and a continuous front screen with no dashboard allows a clear view from the  oor to the attachment.

Power is from a 164hp engine and Z-kinematics provide huge break-out force for bucket work.

The new Cargo T955 handler will be available in mid-2020.

Simple task management

“FendtOne is a farm management tool which will bene t users by combining the o - and on-board worlds,” explained digital product manager Kathrin Schmidt (pictured right). “It allows data to be presented on smartphones, tablets or in the farm o ce in a similar form to the way it appears in the tractor cab including format, colour and symbols.”

Kathrin demonstrated the ease with which tasks can be created and sent to the machine. First the user selects the tractor, the implement and operator, and then the  eld, after which task details are checked and then sent wirelessly to the machine. Intelligent  ltering reduces selection options, saving scrolling through large  eets of equipment. A report is automatically generated on task completion. Any Fendt tractor with VarioDoc can use the system.

Above, a stand visitor is guided thorugh the FendtOne system set-up at the show.

Trailed sprayers

Vicon sales manager David Furber is pictured with the new iXtrack T6 trailed sprayer which was launched at Agritechnica. The T6 was developed in response to customer demand for a high-capacity trailed sprayer for use with 50kph tractors. It is designed for optimum transport performance and safety. The T6 has a 7,600-litre tank and is available with booms up to 40m, although 36m is likely to be most popular with UK growers, he explained.

The large tank’s low centre of gravity maximises stability, but maintains exceptional ground clearance, added David. Pipework and controls are designed to ensure the tank fully empties for minimum residual liquid, and the sprayer is fully Isobus-compatible.

Individual nozzle control with electronic switching is provided, allowing the boom con guration to be adjusted easily to suit multiple tramline spacings.

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Pottinger launched its Impress baler-wrapper combinations two years ago, and a new  agship Impress 185VC Pro model was displayed at the show.

A variable chamber makes bales between 0.9–1.85m in diameter, and a wide 2.3m pick-up is designed for large swaths. Central pick-up suspension allows more than 120mm movement for excellent ground following. An overhead rotor optimises crop  ow and the spiral rotor con guration ensures even feeding across the bale width for constant density. Theoretical chop length is 36mm. The bale wrapper has base-mounted arms which maintain a low centre of gravity. The company explained that the new balers will suit larger farms and contractors and are available for this season.

Improved accuracy

New products from Maschio, imported by Opico, include a high-speed precision drill with particular appeal for maize growers. Chrono metering units use a vacuum to secure seed to the metering disc and the design includes angled discs for unobstructed dropping of seeds down the vertical delivery chute. An air blast accelerates seeds down the chute for immediate delivery and precise plant spacing. The new metering disc motor is fully sealed against moisture and dust and can be pressure washed. To compensate for seed size and density, air pressure can be adjusted between 15–400mb.

Each seeding unit has air bag suspension and full Isobus control is standard.

Product specialist Alessandro Cazzin (inset) explained that, at all drilling speeds, the accuracy has proved excellent, although most users opt for 15–17kph for a comfortable ride.

The new seeding units can be ordered now for delivery in early 2020.

With slurry application regulations likely to impact heavily on those currently using traditional splash-plates, Fliegl Agro-Center is o ering a low-cost entry-level trailing shoe system for existing machines. “Many older tankers won’t take the weight of rear attachments currently available, particularly where UK working conditions tend to be hard on machines,” explained Fliegl sales manager for the UK and Ireland, Nick Dale. “Our new trailing shoe applicator uses our patented distributor through which slurry is supplied into a stainless-steel trough containing a large auger. This controls application and removes foreign objects before they enter the distributor pipework.” Nick said the new applicator is available for almost any slurry tanker and can be mounted on support frames manufactured on-farm or by dealers.

Pictured with Nick on the stand with the new low-cost trailing shoe slurry applicator is Fliegl Agro-Center managing director Angelika Fliegl.

Also new in the Fliegl Agro-Center display area were push brushes. Nick explained that powered rotary brushes have been o ered for some time, but strong demand for push brushes persuaded the company to add them to its line-up, and the new range includes several unique features. Front attachments for the brushes include a front scoop for moving solid materials, and a dozer blade. Brush pressure control is through sidemounted ‘height regulators’ which maintain the desired bristle working pressure, reducing unnecessary wear.

Also displayed by Fliegl were a new manure spreader with horizontal beaters and spreader discs fed by a chain and slat system resulting from Fliegl’s takeover of the Brochard business earlier this year,. A new track-mounted chaser bin (above) also made its debut.

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For farmers and contractors harvesting large areas of grass and other sensitive crops, a selfpropelled swath merger from Ploeger is now available. Bene ts over rakes and tedders include reduced crop contamination and higher working speed. Two 5.5m rotor pick-up reels feed crop onto two conveyors and delivery options include delivering the full crop to the centre, or to both sides. A list price of approximately £230,000 was quoted at the event. Swath merger

Harvester update

The new Puma 4.0 potato harvester was displayed by AVR. It’s similar to the Puma 3, said export sales manager Tom Lootens (above), but the speci cation includes AVR Connect which is part of the company’s Smart Farming System. Real-time yield measurement for use with  eld mapping software is available plus fuel consumption mapping for accurate cost analysis. New features include electric adjustment of the haulm rollers from the cab.

Showcasing future farming technology, the concept tractors and other machinery displayed at this year’s Agritechnica seem primarily focused on the use of alternative fuels in agriculture, along with sensors, cameras and drone tech to allow for realtime data analysis during  eld operations.

Hybrid development Several concept tractors were displayed including a Steyr hybrid in the CNH area, pictured below. Power is from a 4-cylinder FPT engine developing 204hp (150kW), which powers an on-board generator to produce electrical power to drive individual wheel motors and the PTO. A 30kWh battery accumulates power when there is surplus, storing it to release when extra grunt is needed, and up to 250kW peak power is available. The tractor is designed to work with a drone which can gather, process and relay real-time  eld data.

is also available, with a less powerful 44kW/60hp motor and o ering 2wd.

Electric power On the Merlo stand a concept electric telehandler was shown. The E-Worker 25.5-90 4wd has 2,500kg lift capacity and up to 4.8m lift height. The batterypowered motor is rated at 66kW or 90hp. A similar 25.5-60 model

Integrated technology In the Agco display area, a new concept tractor from Massey Ferguson proved a star attraction (pictured right). In white, the MF Next tractor includes futuristic technology, but also gives an indication of some of the design features of new tractors due to be launched later in 2020, replacing current 7720–7726 models.

The larger four-post cab is straight from the new tractors, but the display concept tractor had blanked out windows obscuring the new interior. Autonomous and part-autonomous operation on highway and in the  eld is a possibility and the tractor is fully equipped with integrated technology, including sensors and cameras, allowing crop and  eld scanning for real-time monitoring and decision making.

The new cab has no external mirrors, instead using night-vision cameras to provide images inside the cab.

A heads-up windscreen display is used to monitor performance and means a conventional dashboard isn’t needed.

Also new on the concept tractor is steering technology similar to the new Ideal 10 combine where the steering wheel is replaced by a steering joystick, for an uncluttered view to the front.

Trelleborg has supplied new carbon-free tyres for the Next tractor, with built-in CTIS+ Inside integrated pressure control, which constantly adjusts for changing operating conditions.

It’s not yet clear whether the new 7000-series tractors will bear the Next branding on their release, but it is clear that a major step forward in technology will be available over current models.

Getting to the ‘Root of the Problem’ Back to BasicsGetting to the ‘Root of the Problem’ Back to Basics

Range: 1.5m 3m 4.8m