All combine operators know that even, ‘heads first’ feeding is one of the golden rules for effective threshing. For 30 years the MF Powerflow table has set the benchmark, being proven to lift outputs by up to 73% in oilseed rape.
The Powerflow advantage is still so great that, while no other details on the new AGCO high output ‘Hybrid’ have been released, the company will be building a 9m (30ft) wide Powerflow specifically for this combine. This is because the principle of ‘heads first’ feeding is accepted as the best way to achieve clean and effective separation during threshing – whatever that may entail.
The key to Powerflow’s success is the massive 1.14m distance it provides between the knife and the auger. It then uses powered belts to move the crop efficiently to the auger. In tests, comparing the Powerflow to a conventional table, it is proven to increase capacity in oilseed rape by up to 73%, 12% in barley and 15% in wheat.
With Powerflow there is no down-time associated with converting the machine to work in different crops. It is always ready to harvest, with no need to change any settings.
Table losses in, for example, rape, beans and peas are virtually eliminated when using Powerflow because the crop is fed so quickly into the table. It also excels in difficult, laid crops as well as in peas and beans. In this case conventional tables rely on the uncut crop to push the cut material into the combine, which can cause buffering and lead to uneven feed, particularly in difficult conditions.
With conventional headers in these circumstances there is also a constant concern about picking up stones. But the Powerflow actually prevents damage by repelling debris back under the table.
Powerflow also improves flow with short crops because there is no delay between cutting and feeding the auger. Speeds can be increased without any extra effort from the reel or interruptions in crop flow.
During the past 30 years the Powerflow table’s principle has remained the same, but it has been refined to match today’s requirements. The table now has a stronger, lighter construction and the belts are made from durable material with a low-maintenance tracking system.
A recent innovation is the high capacity rape auger, which is aimed specifically at ensuring even feed of the latest tall, standing oilseed rape crops. The extra auger not only prevents the tall crops from flowing over the back of the table, but also provides a positive feed. Operating like a moving back plate, it propels the crop towards the centre of the table and into the standard auger and elevator.
While it only takes a short time to fit or remove, the extra auger can be left in place while harvesting other crops. It does not impede operation or visibility in any way. Indeed, this auger is useful for improving feed in a wide range of other tall crops, particularly the emerging alternatives to conventional cereals.
As well as benefiting from higher outputs and reduced operating costs, a Powerflow table will also lower the combine’s whole life costs. This is because statistics show that the residual value of combines fitted with these tables generally attract a higher resale price on the used market.
Indeed, at a time when many operators are looking to increase combine capacity, simply specifying a Powerflow table could be the lowest cost option to lift outputs.
ENDS
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About AGCO
Founded in 1990, AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AG) (www.agcocorp.com) is a global manufacturer of agricultural equipment and related replacement parts. AGCO offers a full product line including tractors, combines, hay tools, sprayers, forage, tillage equipment and implements, which are distributed through more than 3,600 independent dealers and distributors in more than 140 countries worldwide. AGCO products include the following well-known brands: AGCO®, Challenger®, Fendt®, Gleaner®, Hesston®, Massey Ferguson®, New Idea®, RoGator®, Spra-Coupe®, Sunflower®, Terra-Gator®, Valtra®, and White™ Planters. AGCO provides retail financing through AGCO Finance. The company is headquartered in Duluth, Georgia, and in 2005, had net sales of $5.4 billion.
CONTACT:
Paul Lay
Manager, Public Relations & Communications
+ 44 (0)2476 851209
