Most powerful combine put through its UK paces
Most powerful combine put through its UK paces
By Mike Williams
TWO Case IH Arcus combines are working in a top secret evaluation programme to measure their harvesting performance in UK crop conditions.
Based on a combination of a new design features and massive engine power, Case IH is hoping the output of the Arcus will take it to the top of the combine performance super league.
Design innovation includes moving the big driving wheels to the rear and putting smaller steering wheels at the front. This arrangement provides improved weight distribution, claims Case.
Further breaks with convention are to be found in the separation system. Most of the straw is removed by two axial rotors sited at the front of the machine, the threshed straw is ejected sideways between the front and rear wheels, reducing the volume of material passing through the machines horizontal drum.
The Arcus specification includes a 425hp Volvo engine, making it the most powerful combine produced so far, and it also has the biggest grain tank, at a capacity of 9.5t. Twin straw choppers, hydrostatic four-wheel drive and a computerised information and control unit allows push-button adjustment for different crops.
Currently working in East Anglia and Glos, the Arcus combines have 7.6m (25ft) headers and, although performance details from UK crops are not yet available, prototype versions working in Germany last year claimed to top 40t/hour when working in wheat.
Arcus was developed initially by the German MDW company, which Case acquired last year. *
Here it is. First sight of the Case Arcus combine working on UK crops – the worlds most powerful combine.Output is claimed to top 40t/hour in wheat.