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With ten models covering 884 to 400hp, it's fair to say the Claas Jaguar range of forage harvesters is the world's largest.
And recently announced upgrades for the coming season will keep them at the front of harvesting technology.
In the engine department, seven models are available with the maker's Dynamic Power function which automatically controls engine output to suit the prevailing conditions.
In practice the operator can select either maximum power, full power or normal power. The engine management system will then match power to load in ten incremental steps, maximising output and optimising fuel consumption.
For example, the flagship 980 model can attain 884hp when used in the maximum setting, or as little as 272hp depending on load, and over 10 steps. By contrast, in the normal mode it can operate between the minimum outputs of 272hp, up to 450hp in three steps.
Another added function allows the operator to enter the crop at maximum engine power, from where the system will automatically match engine speed for the most efficient setting, whilst the cruise pilot mode can be set to maintain forward speed, engine speed or throughput as required.
Other improvements for 2016 are the C-Motion control lever, already seen on some tractor models, and offering fingertip control of up to 13 functions, making life easier for operators who shift between machines or tractors.
Optional leather drivers' seats with integral heating and cooling ensure comfort, LED lighting improves visibility and keyed locks improve security of the ignition system, cab and fuel tanks.
To help improve traction an optional automatic tyre pressure control system can be specified on the 900 series machines; this monitors pressures every 30 minutes to suit field or road.
Twin rotor swathers have become the ‘go-to’ for forming swaths to feed hungry harvesters and balers, however, the design layout often means that crop located between the two rotors is not picked up, turned over or incorporated into the swath formed for subsequent harvesting.
Fifty Eight years ago, on the 16th of August 1968, August Claas, the founder of the harvesting company and father of Helmut Claas, personally presented a Claas Senator combine harvester to Scottish farmer John Steven.
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After its flagship 1200 model set a Guiness World Record in forage harvesting, mopping up 4096 tonnes of whole crop silage in 12 hours, Claas has picked up a brace of awards from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ASABE).
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