Argo Tractors, the manufacturer behind the McCormick range, has revealed how it intends to meet Stage IIIB exhaust emission rules on its bigger models.
The McCormick X70 Autoshift exhibited at the recent Eima agricultural machinery show in Italy is a prototype due to enter production next autumn as a successor to the current TTX. In most respects, it echoes the TTX model’s proven package, which channels economical and responsive power from a 6.7-litre engine through the versatile XtraSpeed semi-powershift transmission.
In the X70, however, a revised version of the TTX tractor’s six-cylinder Betapower engine features selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to remove nitrogen oxides (NOx) from the exhaust gases.
The SCR process injects a small amount of AdBlue, a specially-formulated aqueous urea solution, into the catalyst chamber that forms part of the tractor’s exhaust system. Sensors and control electronics manage the system automatically and prevent the engine from running without a supply of AdBlue.
“In partnership with our engine supplier, Argo Tractors has chosen this approach to NOx control because it removes much of the emissions burden from the combustion process,” AgriArgo product specialist UK Paul Wade said. “The next-generation BetaPower engines can, therefore, be tuned for the best combination of power, torque and efficient use of fuel, while still meeting stricter exhaust emissions limits.”
According to the proposed specification, the top model in the range will develop 220hp for draft work and switch automatically to a peak power output of 232hp for PTO-powered implements. This compares with 213hp and 225hp outputs from the TTX230, which is currently the top model in the range.
“Until the X70 becomes available – which is unlikely to be until the end of next year – the McCormick TTX will continue to provide a first-class power unit for heavy-duty arable and grassland operations,” Mr Wade said. “Its most attractive feature, the XtraSpeed transmission, continues to impress operators who like the easily-accessible spread of speeds provided by the eight powershifts and four range gears.”
Available with 32-forward and 24-reverse speeds in total – or a 48×40 with the creep gearbox option – XtraSpeed is also ahead of other semi-powershift transmissions in giving drivers a choice of three different manual and electronic control systems to suit individual preferences.
For more information visit: www.argotractors.com.
