Density control features in Claas’ new Variant 500-series
LARGER tyre options to minimise soil compaction, easier routine maintenance access and a fresh appearance are among the changes embodied in the latest Claas Variant round balers, covering bale sizes from 0.9m to 1.6m and up to 1.8m.
But the most significant enhancement is a new density control arrangement that brings greater adjustability within the core and outer layers of the bale, as well as a higher density potential overall.
The Variant 500 series replaces the current 400 series with two non-crop chopping models using the Roto Feed single-tine spiral intake rotor and two crop slicing versions with the twin-blade Roto Cut rotor and 17 retractable knives – up from 14 on 400-series balers.
In both cases, the rotor and bale-forming belts turn in opposite directions, with the tines extending into the chamber to get material rolling into a bale at its earliest stages.
Both types come with a hydro-pneumatic drop floor as standard to help avoid or clear plugs, and up front can be equipped with a 2.1m or 2.35m wide camcontrolled pick-up featuring redesigned support wheels said to be more easily and finely adjusted to operating conditions.
Roto Cut versions also have heavier duty drive and other components, largely to cope with the added forces involved in conveying material across the crop slicing blades.
Tensioning of the four endless belts continues as before in there being two control arms – rather than one – regulated by three hydraulic cylinders.
DENSITY CONTROL
But now, a new hydraulic valve block has individual lines for each tensioning arm, with new control software enabling each arm to be monitored and adjusted separately.
That gives greater flexibility, particularly when creating a soft core, says Claas, while enabling denser outer layers to be formed for greater weather resistance and some increase in bale weight.
Operators can select one of three default settings for different crops or enter their own settings. Over-the-shoulder netting
standard rather than is optional on the new balers to help produce bales that hold their shape and material more effectively.
The net roll is positioned a little lower than before for easier change-overs and a new net brake is designed to provide consistent tension as net roll diameter reduces.
ISOBUS electronics are standard, so they can be controlled via the new Claas Cemos 700 display (which replaces the Operator and Communicator II terminals) or any other ISOBUS display, whether from another supplier or built into the tractor.
Larger tyre options up to 560/45 22.5 help reduce the baler’s impact on the soil, revised auto lube with individual brush adjustment should reduce the amount of oil used to lubricate drive chains, and colourcoded hydraulic hoses will help when coupling up to a tractor.