Rugged baler for North America

AGCO launched the Massey Ferguson 1 Series round baler series in North America. The rugged machine was specially designed to perform in challenging dry hay, stover, and residue applications. Massey Ferguson will display the new baler at this year’s Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois, USA.

“Baling dry hay and stover is incredibly demanding on hay equipment,” said Matt LeCroy, director, hay and harvesting, for Massey Ferguson North America. “Our engineering team in Hesston, Kansas, worked diligently to provide an efficient solution that can stand up to the challenging conditions our farmers face in the field.”

“The new 1 Series round baler delivers on our promise to meet the needs of North American hay producers. The 1 Series allows operators to maintain density while running at increased speeds.”

Straightforward comes standard

The Massey Ferguson 1 Series round baler integrates proven technology from decades to make the baling process more efficient and more comfortable than before. It is available in two variable-chamber models, the RB.146, which produces up to 4-by-6-foot round bales, and the RB.156, for up to 5-by-6-foot bales.

The 1 Series comes standard with a cam less pickup for increased efficiency and comfort. This reduces power requirements to just 80 hp for the RB.146 and 100 hp for the larger RB.156. Additionally, without a cam track, the 1 Series round baler minimizes maintenance and noise.

With the 1 Series round baler, hay producers can be loaded in minutes with minimal physical requirements. A front-mounted net binding system allows for tighter, faster binding without the visibility tradeoff of other models. The baler features a duckbill-style net system. This mechanically moves net from the roll to the bale, eliminating environmental obstructions, while the net braking design allows for easy one-handed adjustment without tools, ensuring optimum net tension. An innovative net roll loading rack pivots out at approximately tailgate height, minimizing lifting and positioning.

An optional hydraulically operated drop floor provides further comfort, allowing operators to clear obstructions without leaving the tractor.

Durability for extreme conditions

Engineers designed the 1 Series round baler to deliver dependable, long-lasting service even in the challenging conditions of North American dry hay production. Heavy-duty components ensure the new baler will stand up to the harshest conditions.

These include:

• Triple-lip sealed bearings to keep out dust and debris
• Heavy-wall aggressive rollers with welded cleats for long service life
• Debris shields and cast roller flares prevent material buildup, protecting bearings
  

Additionally, the 1 Series uses high-quality systems, proven to reduce unnecessary downtime. For example, the maintenance-free elastomeric tension and toothless idlers minimize wear on diamond roller chains for maximum uptime. Moving parts are minimized throughout the baler for low maintenance and operator-friendly experience.

High-speed operation

The 1 Series allows operators to maintain density while running at increased speeds. The baler employs a vertical chamber that uses gravity to increase bale density without additional parts or power. It also features a positively engaging undershot rotor for increased efficiency. Cross-platform commonality allows for easy integration into any operation. This includes tractor implement management (TIM) capabilities, which allow the baler to stop the tractor and completely cycle the bale without operator input.