Dewulf Kwatro potato harvester undergoes a remarkable transformation

Dewulf, specialist in harvesting technology for potatoes and carrots, has implemented extensive updates for 2016 on the current Kwatro, a self-propelled 4-row sieving harvester.

Without changing the concept that forms the basis of the harvester’s success, careful attention was paid to what the professional users in the field had to say. With this, Dewulf introduces the second generation of the Kwatro.

Potato-friendly and frontal harvesting

Dewulf remains loyal to the concept of high-quality, frontal harvesting. Because the harvesting unit is positioned ahead of the tracks, the potato baulks remain intact and the harvester has excellent stability. Due to this construction, it is possible to keep harvesting for longer in the event of wet conditions. The harvesting unit is equipped with an electrical depth control by means of 2 skids (ADC), separate harvesting shares and large, hydraulically driven discs.

The harvesting unit is supported by a robust system of support rollers and automatic pressure control (APC). With the skids positioned between the baulks, the harvester automatically follows the rows (DAS). A diabolo kit remains optional.
 

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Video presentation of the new Kwatro

Haulm chopper

The first important modification can be found in the integral haulm chopper. This has been fitted with an improved flail distribution. Due to this, the suction force has been increased considerably. The hood of the haulm chopper is largely made of synthetic material, as a result of which the clumping of soil is avoided. The electrical depth control with 2 skids flawlessly follows the ridges, ensuring a perfect pulverization. Optionally, a haulm chopper with removal to the side can be selected.

More sieving surface, improved cleaning

The Kwatro has undergone notable internal modifications. The sieving path is comprised of a succession of a digger web and two sieving belts without narrowing. As a result, the sieving surface is increased by no less than 11%.

From now on, the Kwatro will use a short digger web. Together with the wide and unobstructed flow in the machine, very high driving speeds can be achieved while harvesting. An optional rotary agitator in the sieving web provides additional sieving capacity. The subsequent sieving conveyor is equipped with two eccentric agitators. A quickly adjustable haulm roller is installed downstream of the sieving conveyor 2, which as a result can process more haulm.

The final sieving conveyor is also equipped with an eccentric agitator. DSC ensures the synchronisation of the speed of the sieving conveyors with the speed of the harvester.
 

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The total sieving surface of the new Kwatro is increased by no less than 11%.

In the centre, the sieving conveyors have a plate, which makes it possible to reduce harvesting to only two rows. A hydraulically driven haulm divider avoids accumulation of haulm here.

After sieving, the product flow arrives at the hedgehog belt, which provides the first intensive cleaning. Then the potatoes reach the Flexyclean® cleaning unit, which has already been featured on the RF3060. This is a patented variable bypass system in combination with a cleaning unit, which responds perfectly to the respective conditions. The extent to which the potatoes pass over the cleaning unit can be adjusted steplessly via Flexyclean® and drop heights are restricted to a minimum.

Subsequently, the potatoes are distributed across the entire width of the ring elevator with the 3-part distributor. The ring elevator is equipped with active side walls, which protect the potatoes against damage.

Additionally, a cleaning module can be integrated in the discharge conveyor.

The advantages of a large bunker

The Kwatro has a bunker with a capacity of 17.5 m3. This offers an important advantage when crossing large parcels with a large yield. The 1-part bunker makes it possible to unload the entire bunker quickly or to unload on the move. The harvester is equipped with an automatic hydraulic tensioner, ensuring that the bunker chain always has the required tension and is less susceptible to wear.

Significant weight saving, increased maneuverability

The clever weight distribution in conjunction with a weight reduction of up to 15% and the optional extra-wide rear wheel (Mitas 1250/50R32) ensure a perfectly flat ground after harvesting with minimal compacting. The rear steering angle has been increased to 60°, making the harvester noticeably more maneuverable, even on the smallest parcels. The traction power can be adjusted per track/wheel, ensuring that harvesting can be continued, even in the most challenging circumstances and weather conditions.

Ergonomics in and around the cabin

With the roomy new Claas cabin, Dewulf has created a spacious working environment focused on the driver. Due to an excellent view on the harvesting unit, the driving experience is sublime. The 2 control-units for the harvesting and driving sections and a joystick provide the driver with all luxury and simplicity for the operating of the harvester. The product flow can be monitored via 12 cameras and 3 screens. From now on, the step to the cabin can be folded hydraulically with a simple push on the button.
 

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The roomy new Claas cabin of the Kwatro offers a spacious working environment focused on the driver.

Powerful engine, better fuel economy

The Kwatro is equipped with a Scania DC13 Stage IV engine with 500 hp. The cooler works independently from the engine and as a result offers more freedom in regard to the engine speed.

The engine complies with the most stringent requirements in regard to emission standards. On the road, the engine speed is limited to 1,550 rpm and the normal operating range lies between 1,250 rpm and 1,750 rpm (depending on the conditions). In this manner, higher performance with better fuel economy can be achieved. The transversely mounted engine has provided a greater degree of accessibility. By doing so, daily checks and refueling can be performed very easily and quickly. As a result, a minimum of valuable time is wasted during the most crucial harvest period.

Flexibility for various vegetable crops

Due to its modular construction, in addition to the harvesting of potatoes, the Kwatro can also be used for a variety of vegetable crops. Among others, industrial carrots, chicory, onions, celeriac, etc. can be harvested.