Alongside its new forager range, John Deere has also introduced a new self-propelled sprayer. The 500R comes with a fully pressurised cabin, with category 4 filtration and the G5 Plus CommandCenter terminal for faster processing and improved operation.
Powering the 500R is a 285hp PowerTech TM engine put through a hydrostatic drivetrain, with a single pump delivering power to four variable wheel motors for improved traction control and single range, infinite speed adjustment. When travelling on the road, Auto Mode reduces the engine to just 1,350rpm for reduced fuel consumption.
Tank capacities of 4,000 or 5,000 litres are available, with boom options of 30m or 36m, both offering half width operation. The BoomTrac Pro 2 system uses five boom height sensors and an Inertia Measurement Unit sensor to ensure that the boom always remains at the correct height above the crop.
A full package of precision farming systems are available, including PowrSpray and ExactApply, said to provide up to 98% accuracy during operations. The PowrSpray dual-circuit pump can change from minimum to maximum output in seconds, maintaining application rates even as the forward speed changes. ExactApply individually adjusts the nozzles, using pulse width modulation, to maintain the correct droplet size. Up to 11 different rates can be maintained across the boom, and the system incorporates automatic turn compensation.
Baled up
The latest generation of fixed and variable chamber round balers are all equipped with Isobus functionality, integrating all machine data into the company’s Operations Center. According to the company, this enables growers to monitor bale quality in real time, as well as collect data for invoicing.
An optional moisture monitoring feature measures the average moisture per bale and alerts the operator if this deviates from pre-set limits. Combined with the standard size and location monitoring and users can store bales in groups based on quality.
For the variable chamber V452R and V462R, the driveline power intake has been uprated, said to provide an 8% increase in productivity. A flexible drawbar has also been added, enabling the machine to weave over the windrow, moving left or right for consistently shaped bales – all without operator input.
Baler wrapper combinations – the C442R, C452R and C462R – are available with an optional weighing system, integrated into the transport table rollers, and can achieve a wrapping arm speed of 40rpm. Controls for the wrapping table are also fully integrated into the multifunction joystick via an Isobus connection.
For more information go to www.deere.co.uk