Krone is expanding its XCollect series with a three-part maize header, by adding a model with a two-part design. The XCollect 750-2 (10 rows) with a working width of 7.5 m is equipped with an integrated RotoChop mulcher that works the maize stubble intensively across the entire working width. This is an efficient way of abating increasing disease pressure caused by fungi and animal pests in just one work step.
A special feature of the XCollect is the separation of the cutting and conveying functions into two different processes. Cutting is performed by rotating, sickle-shaped cutting discs that are aligned horizontally. This means plants are cut with low levels of vibration and crop losses are minimized. The rotational speed and thus the cutting frequency can be easily adjusted to the individual crop and harvesting conditions via a switching stage in the drive train of the discs. The drive of the sickle discs is protected against overload by star ratchet clutches, and each individual disc is additionally protected by friction discs.
Combined harvesting and mulching
The RotoChop mulching system, integrated into the two-part XCollect maize header is new and unique. This mulching system allows the stubble to be worked across the entire working width in a single pass during the maize harvest before it is pressed into the soil by the tyres of the harvester and the following tractor/machine combinations. Further soil cultivation for subsequent crops is thus simplified. This not only saves time and fuel but above all benefits field hygiene. Since the flails of the mulcher break up the maize stubble to below the first joint of the stalk and accelerate the rotting process of the crop residues remaining in the field. This prevents the larvae of insect pests, such as the European corn borer, and spores of Fusarium fungi in particular from overwintering and subsequently reproducing.
The individual mulching units can be conveniently lifted and lowered hydraulically from the cab at the touch of a button. This is particularly helpful in temporarily changing ground conditions, such as tracks, or in wet conditions. If the mulchers are overloaded, for example by foreign objects, the corresponding mulching units are briefly lifted and then lowered again. If mulching is not required, the mulching unit, which is driven by a separate gearbox can simply be switched off and swiveled upwards.
Integrated transport chassis
For road transport, the two lateral frames of the maize header can be folded in vertically to ensure that the transport width, including the mulcher, is only 3 m. An intelligent folding mechanism positions the mulching units in such a way that they are orientated with the narrow side facing the driver and always offer them a sufficiently large field of vision.
As an optional extra, Krone offers a fully integrated hydraulic transport chassis for the XCollect. It reduces the load on the front axle of the harvester, facilitates approval for road use and improves driving comfort. Further, it eliminates the need to park a transport wagon, as the integrated transport chassis is lifted hydraulically during field work and can remain on the header. A fully integrated comfort front guard with lighting is also available as an optional extra. It ensures that you are always safe on the road.
The maize header is easy to maintain. This is because large and easy-to-open covers offer optimum accessibility. The mulching tools are also easy and convenient to replace if necessary.
