Austrian header manufacturer Biso has launched its new Ultralight 800 series. Built from modular cast aluminium sections, each 1.06m wide, it marks a radical departure from standard header engineering. The result is a rigid platform with considerable weight saving benefits. The extensive use of aluminium and toughened plastic achieves a gross weight of just 4,000kg on a 12m header.
Unlike the extra-wide header shown by the firm at Agritechnica in 2007, this new design does not need dolly wheels on either side of the header to help carry its weight in the field.
Other patented innovations include hydraulic side knives and a fully variable cutting bed with smooth forward extension up to 800mm, both controlled from the combine’s cab. Independent cutterbar gearboxes at either end of the header provide a balanced operation that is both quiet and relatively vibration free. The main functions – side knife, tilt, bed fore/aft – are operated using the machines own oil pump and 10-litre reservoir.
The header angle is adjustable to suit slopes and inclines with failsafe protection. The stainless steel auger is split in the middle and features a central bearing while the dual knives overlap for efficient operation across the full 12m cut.
The reel height and angle is hydraulically adjusted from the cab. Similarly the reel tines can be angled giving flexibility to tackle laid crops. The tine bars are shrouded to minimise snagging. The side knives can be used in combination with the side dividers in OSR and tangled crops.
A demonstration model used in the UK this year was operating well within its limits at 8.5km/hr forward speed and an output of 60t/hr.
Other sizes of the header will be available for harvest 2010.
For more information visit: www.abreyagricultural.com.
