Farming smarter with technology
The National Fieldays is an annual fixture in the farming calendar: it draws in thousands of farmers, contractors, and industry professionals from across the country.
Showcased on the Power Farming site, the new 6170, 6190 and 6230 models are set to deliver the biggest swath of updates since its market release back in 2013. The trio are all available with the proven 5 range, 6 stage semi powershift transmission from ZF, or in the case of the two larger models, are also available with SDF’s new in-house, compound TTV Transmission, that already features in the larger 7 and 8 Series.
Power is provided by a Deutz AG 6.1 litre 6-cylinder engine, homologated as a tier 3a variant for the Australasian market, removing the need to use AdBlue or DPF aftertreatment systems, while delivering a long, flat torque curve that results in lower engine speeds with ample power for transport applications. Fuel capacity has increased to 405 litres for all models, ensuring a full day’s work without the need for refuelling.
As the engine is designed to run hotter and cleaner to meet emission standards, a cooling package revision features larger dimensions, but still retains a cantilever style radiator stack that swings out for easy cleaning and maintenance. In addition, an optional air outlet plumbed to the tractor’s pneumatic system can be used for blowing out dust and debris whilst in the field. This is further complemented by an electro-viscous fan to optimise airflow and cooling capacity of the powertrain.
Taking a closer look at the transmission options, the semi-powershift version features an electronically controlled, 5 range, 6 stage powershift with good overlap between ranges and a wide range of speeds in the 5-17km/h key working range.
The configuration removes the need to work between ranges, offering a range with 6 steps of uninterrupted power in each range. This is particularly important when working on hill country or under heavy load where a range change will result in lack of momentum.
In addition, auto-shift modes, either within ranges or through the entire transmission range, mean transport operations can be performed with ease.
The new compound TTV transmission, first showcased in the 8280TTV, consists of two high pressure hydrostatic units and a stepped planetary gearbox that provides seamless and consistent power delivery. The two drive ratios are shifted automatically and seamlessly without operator input, while the design of the transmission ensures minimum power loss through the driveline. The cabin interior has been upgraded with an improved airconditioning system for better air circulation with new fans and intake vanes and higher airflows to enhance operator comfort. The iMonitor is also updated with new operating software, bringing with it ease of use and Improvements to ISOBUS integration and logging of job data logging.
