The hybrid system, previously only available on the larger Lexion models, combines Claas’ long-standing Accelerated Pre Separation (APS) threshing system with Roto Plus secondary separation. But, whereas Lexions have twin 420mm rotors, the Tucano adopts a single, 570mm rotor instead.

The hybrid system combines two distinct functions, conventional threshing and separation using the APS and drum system, followed by final separation using the Roto Plus system found in its larger
stablemates.

Rebadged as a Tucano 450, the new Hybrid rotary Tucano is aimed at the top end of the mid-sized market.

During the APS process, 30% of the grain is extracted before the crop enters the drum. This increases throughput and capacity, boosting the performance of this rotary Tucano to match that of larger six-walker Lexions, says Tom Pine of Claas UK.

“Because the speed of the primary threshing drum can be controlled independently of the speed of the secondary threshing rotor, as in the Lexion, different crop conditions can be taken into account, resulting in reduced losses and better straw,” he adds.

The 1580mm wide APS drum is 450mm in diameter and is fitted with a multi-crop concave. The accelerator, threshing system and impeller are all synchronised to maintain an even flow, while the rotor is belt driven with a choice of six operating speeds, ranging from 422rpm to 850rpm.

Using a belt drive, speed changes require a change of pulleys, which takes a few minutes to change in the field.

Packing a 365hp Caterpillar engine, the Tucano 480 can be fitted with headers from 5.4-9m.

It’s equipped with the standard 80-blade straw chopper, but if straw incorporation is a concern and you’ve got a 9m header up front, then there’s an option of the Active Spreader, which uses two spreading rotors working in opposite directions, increasing spread by up to 15%.

The Vista cab is carried over from the previous Tucano, but many would agree it’s a lot roomier than even that of the Lexion 600. A multifunction joystick and Cebis control system, which allows all settings to be controlled from within the cab, are all standard while GPS and autosteer are optional.

The Vista cab gives drivers plenty of space and access to the grain tank for sampling.	The Hybrid system, although common with the larger Lexions, uses just one rotor at the back, coupled with the company’s long-standing APS threshing system.
Cebis is standard on the Tucano, and a multi-functional joystick common with the Lexion provides drivers with fingertip control.	Instead of the twin rotor set-up in the larger Lexions, the Tucano uses a single 570mm rotor for increased throughput.

VIDEO: See the machine in action. PLUS farmer Matthew Bowe, of Sentry Farms, Denham Estates, Suffolk, gives his verdict on the Tucano 480’s harvest performance

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