Fendt has unveiled what it claims is the world’s first rotary hay rake featuring an electric drive.
The machine, which was awarded a silver medal for innovation at Agritechnica is on display at Fendt’s stand alongside its X-concept tractor which Fendt also developed based on electric drive technology.
The Fendt Former 12555 X is a four-rotor hay rake with a working width of 12.50 m and 12 double tines.
It was developed as part of a research project undertaken by Fendt to discover the potential of electric drives in powering agricultural machinery.
The Fendt Former 12555 X is supplied with electricity by a 700-V direct current interface specified by the AEF (Agricultural Industry Electronics Foundation) and has an integral electric drive for each rotor.
Fendt developed an efficient torque motor for the Former 12555 X integrated in each rake socket so separate housing, bearings and gearbox are not required.
Every motor is regulated independently via its own power electronics.
According to Fendt, the use of electric drives instead of fuel not only offers cost, efficiency and servicing benefits for the operator but they are also more environmentally friendly than mechanical implements.
On the Former 12555 X hay rake, Fendt says it is possible to adjust the speed on each rotor separately – independent of the engine speed and ground speed of the tractor.
This makes it possible to react quickly and individually to the different structures of the forage crop.
In addition, each rotor can be stopped quickly and individually when required which adds to the machine’s safety factor.
The fact that the rake does not have any joints that needs greasing means it is significantly easier to maintain and causes less wear.
Fendt says the Former 12555 X hay rake will be available on the global market at the end of 2016.
Video: Carene Chong