New CLAAS square balers "fastest on market"

German equipment manufacturer CLAAS has given its QUADRANT square balers a makeover complete with extensively upgraded drivetrains, bigger bale chambers, and a high-performance knotter.

CLAAS claims the new QUADRANT 5300 and 5200, which will replace the current 3300 and 3200 models, are the fastest square balers on the market.

The 5300 produces 1.2 x 0.9m bales, while the 5200 produces 1.2 x 0.7m bales.

CLAAS Greenline product manager Luke Wheeler says both models' drivetrains have been extensively upgraded to maximise performance, bale density and driver comfort in all conditions.

"In the 5300, rotor speed has increased by 13 per cent to 180rpm, rotor clutch torque has increased by 10 to 14 per cent and the packer clutch torque has increased 13 per cent to 9500Nm," he says.

"Likewise the packing performance of the 5200 has been increased by 30 per cent, while the ram frequency has increased by 10 per cent."

The bale chambers of the QUADRANT 5300 and 5200 have been extended by 40cm to 3.85m to achieve greater bale densities and more stable bales at high throughputs.

CLAAS also claims the new balers are the first large square balers available with an infinitely variable, hydraulically driven reversible intake.

"Combined with the POWER FEEDING SYSTEM and rear roller crop press, this feature allows the intake speed on the 2.35m wide pick-up to be perfectly matched to suit conditions," Wheeler says.

"The intake speed can be increased to maximise throughput in lighter conditions or decreased to minimise leaf loss when baling sensitive crops, such as lucerne."

In the event of a blockage, the intake can be easily reversed from within the tractor cab.

Feed options include ROTO FEED (no knives), ROTO CUT (25 knives) and FINE CUT (51 knives).

A new automatic pressure control system is available with the new models that produces uniform bales each time, regardless of the baling material or experience of the operator, says Wheeler.

"The driver simply enters the desired bale density and the quality of twine being used in the ISOBUS terminal before starting," he says.

"The baler automatically regulates the baling pressure based on measurements provided by three sensors mounted on the knotters and one on the main frame.

"This means even an inexperienced driver can maximise production and produce uniform bales, irrespective of the quality of the baling material."

Another key feature on the new QUADRANT balers is CLAAS' new HD knotter.

Since 1921, CLAAS has been designing and manufacturing its own patented single knotters, which the company says are known around the world for their reliability without producing unwanted twine residue and waste.

"In developing the 5000 series, CLAAS revisited its oldest patent and developed a completely new high-performance HD knotter."

The new design includes a modified knotter bill hook and twine retaining plate and an active twine finger assembly control system for more secure and reliable knotting with all types of twine.

Find out more about the QUADRANT 5300 and 5200 balers at claas.com.au.