Class Tucano Combine Goes Rotary
2009-08-14

Following the successful introduction of the TUCANO range last year, CLAAS has extended the range with the addition of a new model, the TUCANO 480, which features the performance-boosting CLAAS Hybrid rotary threshing system.

Alan Brewster with the Landini PowerMondial tractor he is providing for the 48-hour ploughing marathon.

Previously only available on top-end LEXION models, the Hybrid system brings together the CLAAS APS (Accelerated Pre Separation) primary threshing system with the ROTO PLUS rotary secondary separation. However, unlike the LEXION Hybrid models that use twin rotors, the new TUCANO Hybrid features just a single, large diameter rotor.

Powered by a 365hp Caterpillar engine and suitable for use with cutterbars up to 9.0m wide, it is expected that the TUCANO 480 will be capable of harvesting up to 1700 acres.

Cutterbar options

As with current TUCANO models, the new TUCANO 480 can be fitted with both the standard and VARIO cutterbars up to 9.0m wide, plus more specialist headers such as for grain maize. As previously, the cutterbar is quickly and simply attached using a central multi-coupler.

A new feature on the TUCANO 480 is the inclusion of a flexible bearing in the cutterbar mount, which allows the cutting angle of the cutterbar to be altered depending on field conditions or the size of tyres fitted.

Hybrid threshing

The benefits of combining the primary APS threshing system to separate out about 30% of the grain, leaving the ROTO PLUS rotor to separate the remainder is well proven and the reason behind the high capacity of LEXION Hybrid models.

As with the LEXION, on the new Hybrid system in the TUCANO 480, the rotor speed of the APS primary threshing unit is controlled independently of the single ROTO PLUS rotor.

This ensures that each element in the threshing system can be individually set to reflect crop conditions and that the crop is carefully threshing without overly damaging the grain or straw.

The APS system features a 1580mm wide and 450m diameter drum and is fitted with a multi-crop concave. Each element of the APS system – the accelerator, threshing drum and impeller – are directly driven and synchronised to maintain an even crop flow.

The new single ROTO PLUS rotor is 4200m long and 570mm in diameter to provide a high centrifugal speed even at low speeds. This helps reduce power requirement but ensures maximum separation whilst gently handling the straw.

The rotor is directly driven and six operating speeds can be selected: 850; 750; 650; 552; 478 and 422 rpm, so making it easy to find the ideal speed for crop or field conditions.

The cleaning system has a total area of 5.65m2 and features a removable grain pan with six turbine fans adjustable from the cab, plus electrically adjusted sieves. As an option, the TUCANO 480 can also be specified with 3D sieves for hillside work.

The TUCANO 480 comes with a 9000 litre centrally positioned tank, with a discharge rate of 75 litres/second.

To ensure a high quality chop for optimum incorporation, the TUCANO 480 is fitted with a CLAAS ‘Special Cut’ 80 blade straw chopper. An ‘Active Spreader’ is also available as an option, which has two spreading rotors operating in opposite directions, that then accelerates the chopped material for an even spread across the full working width.

Operator comfort

The VISTA cab on the TUCANO 480 provides the operator with a high level of comfort and all the main controls are operated via the main Multifunction joystick.

Using the CEBIS control system, the operator can quickly and easily see and alter all the machine settings, and monitor aspects such as throughput or grain losses, which are measured across the full width of the combine.

Telematics

Following its successful introduction on the LEXION range, the new TUCANO 480 can also be fitted with the CLAAS Telematics monitoring system.

Using an internet link to upload operational information to a secure website, this data can then be used to monitor and analyse a wealth of information. All the main machine settings can be viewed remotely plus a whole range of output information can be selected, including a Combine League to compare performance with other machines.

By overlaying data on Google Earth, the Telematics information can also be used to analyse harvest logistics with a view to improving efficiency. The system can also be used to help remotely diagnose any faults, so reducing service downtime.

Available also on the TUCANO 480 is a comprehensive all-round lighting package. For quick and easy cleaning an air-compressor, air gun and line is fitted and a hinged radiator frame ensures quick and easy access.

New High Output Class Rollant Balers
Landini PowerMondial in 48hr Charity Ploughing Marathon
New Holland Offers Technology and Economy at Saltex 2009