Claas and Liebherr have collaborated to introduce the new Torion, which the companies claim is the first wheeled loader series designed for all agricultural applications.
The new range – unveiled at Agritechnica 2017 – is said to meet the growing demand for high-performance machines for professional agricultural transport and material handling, and introduces seven new loaders to round out Claas’ current range of telehandlers, transport wagons and tractors with front loaders.
The new Torion series covers three different category sizes with a wide performance range. All the new models can be purchased via the Claas dealer network, including the Claas service guarantee for delivery of spare parts within 24 hours.
Claas has put the expertise of the Liebherr family business to good use with its Torion agricultural models. The construction machinery manufacturer will be collaborating with Claas on all future Torion models, as well as the Scorpion series. All new models are equipped with the proven Claas Power System drive, which combines extreme reliability with impressive efficiency. The Torion series also boasts a generously dimensioned cab with optimal all-round visibility and user-friendly features.
An agile all-rounder
With the smallest Torion 639 and 535 models, Claas offers an agile all-round machine built specifically with livestock holdings and special crops in mind. The Yanmar engines in both models develop up to 68hp, and meet Stage IIIB emissions standards. They’re particularly robust and durable. The infinitely variable hydrostatic drive has two drive modes: F1 from 0 to 6km/hr, and F2 from 0 to 20km/hr. The driver can switch from one drive mode to the other at the touch of a button, depending on the application.
For work at low speeds (for example, feed measuring bucket), the amount of hydraulic oil can be controlled via the creep speed control. With their incredibly user-friendly handling, the Torion 639 and 535 models can be reliably operated, even when regularly used by different drivers.
The tipping loads (articulated) of the models are 3.45t and 3.85t, respectively. An optimal centre of gravity and low design, with clearance heights of less than 2.5m regardless of tyre type, ensure optimal stability, even when working on uneven terrain. The central articulation/swivel joint provides additional safety and convenience, smoothing out any bumps along the way.
The cab and boom on both models are positioned for maximum visibility. The generous front windscreen extends laterally to the cab floor and also provides an optimum view above, so that the operator can keep an eye on the attachment from any position. The rounded rear window provides the operator with an optimum view to the rear when on the move. The tapered boom narrows toward the cab, ensuring optimal visibility of the load and the attachment at all times.
Mid-range series packs more punch
The mid-range series of the new Torion loaders, with the 1511, 1410 and 1177 models, are equipped with fuel-efficient Deere Power Systems engines, which have already proven their worth in Claas Arion 500 series tractors. They meet Stage IV emissions standards and develop up to 167hp. The convenient hydrostatic Varipower transmission provides three drive modes, from 0 to 6km/hr, 0 to 16km/hr and 0 to 40km/hr for optimal adjustment to the working conditions. Models in the mid-range Torion series are therefore ideal for farms and contractors requiring sufficient power for silo compaction or for handling grain, fertiliser and other bulk material.
All Torion loaders, including the mid-range series, benefit from optimal weight distribution. The unique mounting position of the engine, which is very low and well towards the rear, creates a counterweight to the lifting zone. This means that less additional ballast is needed, which has a positive impact on tyre wear and fuel consumption. It also means that high tipping loads of 7.75t to 9.75t are possible at a low working weight.
For the Torion models in the mid-range series, the boom is available with P- or Z-kinematics. With the load spread across the entire lift zone and higher holding forces in the upper working area, P-kinematics is the best option for most agricultural work. Z-kinematics has a very high breakaway torque, and the bucket can be tipped quickly.
The Smart Loading advanced driver-assistance system brings together all the systems to optimise the machine operation. Practical additional features ease the operator’s workload and help increase efficiency. Features include a programmable bucket return function and defined lifting and lowering limits, which make it possible for the operator to automatically guide the boom to certain pre-set positions using the joystick.
A weighing system is also available, which is easily operated via a touchscreen. In the largest 1914 and 1812 models, the bucket return function and defined lifting and lowering limits come as standard; in the 1511 to 1177 models, they’re available as an option. The weighing system is available as an option in all models.
All three models in the mid-range Torion series are equipped with a standard seven-inch touchscreen, which serves as a central information hub for operating the machine and is extremely easy to use. There are two different joysticks available for convenient and sensitive control of the Torion. The ergonomically designed joystick can be used to easily operate all boom functions with precision. The direction of travel can also be changed easily via a toggle switch on the handle. The multifunction lever which is available as an option has an additional four-way control lever that can be used to control a third and fourth hydraulic circuit, for filling and dumping a high dump bucket or opening and closing a silage grab.
The new Dynamic Cooling system controls the fan speed electronically ensuring demand-driven cooling of the engine, no matter what the operating conditions. The integrated reversing fan system is available as an option. It also works fully automatically, based on the settings selected by the operator, to remove dirt from the radiator grille.
Top performers
With the largest Torion 1914 and 1812 models, Claas focuses its attention on contractors and large farming businesses that have the highest demands in terms of power, performance and operator comfort. With their efficient Liebherr engines, these machines develop 195 and 228hp respectively, and meet Stage IV emissions standards with no additional diesel particulate filter (available as an option). The tipping loads are 11.1t and 12.4t, respectively. Both large models are equipped as standard with the Dynamic Cooling system and an optional automatic reversing fan system for very dirty working conditions is also available.
The infinitely adjustable, power-split CMatic transmission works with a combination of hydrostatic and mechanical drive, to achieve optimal efficiency in all loading and unloading operations. The high level of mechanical transmission at lower speeds of up to 10km/hr and, at maximum speed, enable high power output with low fuel consumption.
As with models in the mid-range series, the two largest Torion models enjoy optimal weight distribution with the engine located well toward the rear. This means that the engine can be accessed easily, making maintenance a breeze.
The boom is available with either agricultural or Z-kinematics, the agricultural kinematics being particularly well suited for all agricultural applications. Both machines can be equipped with a high-lift boom as an option, provided they are using agricultural kinematics.
Measuring 3.0m, it’s 40cm longer than the standard boom, and can achieve loading heights of up to 4.64m (at the pivot pin). A high-lift boom is also available as an option for all models in the mid-range series.
The Claas Torion range is available now.
For more information visit: www.claas.com.
