Replacing the VB 3100 series – VB 3160 and VB 3190 models – the VB 3260 and VB 3290 incorporates Progressive Density Plus technology, enabling a 10% improvement in bale density. The VB 3260 produces bales ranging from 0.8m to 1.6m in diameter, while the VB 3290 creates bales up to 1.85m.
Rhodri Jenkins, Kuhn’s grassland product specialist, highlighted the benefits of the updated series.
He said: “We have taken the proven concepts from the outgoing models and incorporated these into the new design along with innovative features to increase output and bale quality. The range is aimed at customers requiring higher density bales and greater output in a variety of different crops throughout the season.”
A redesigned heavy crop roller with spring-loaded tines improves pre-compression and crop flow, enhancing the baler’s efficiency by 10% compared to earlier versions. Additionally, a faster tailgate mechanism ejects bales in just six seconds, further improving operational speed.
The Progressive Density Plus system increased bale density in dry crops through a combination of hydraulic cylinders, a spring tensioner and an adjustable belt tensioning arm, providing an extra 10% pressure when needed. The baler is compatible with tractor Isobus terminals or Kuhn’s VTI 60, CCI 800, and CCI 1200 screens, while non-Isobus machines come equipped with the standard VT 30 control unit.
Durability has also been enhanced with a reinforced driveline featuring a stronger main drive chain, an upgraded rotor drive chain and improved bearings and seals on the high-capacity rollers. Customers can choose between the non-cutting Optifeed rotor for even swath flow or the Opticut rotor with 14 or 23 knives.
The Opticut system ensured a theoretical chop length of 70mm or 45mm, with each knife spring-protected against foreign objects. Both Optifeed and Opticut models benefit from the Integral Rotor for consistent crop flow, while the standard Dropfloor system allows blockages to be cleared quickly by hydraulically lowering the floor and knives.
For those seeking baler-wrapper combinations, the VBP 3260 and VBP 3290 models offer the same advanced features as the standard balers. With bale transfer times 15% faster due to the improved tailgate speed, these models also included automatic unloading of straw bales in pairs and a hold-to-run button for satellite wrapper rotation.
The hold-to-run button allows connecting the wrap to the bale after fitting a new roll by allowing half a rotation of the wrapping arms. Film rolls could also be replaced from the same side by rotating the satellite arms. Additionally, the innovative 3D Eco Wrapping system applied less film to the bale’s centre, focusing on covering the edges first to protect the most vulnerable areas.
Rhodri concluded: “The high-spec new models are reaching the UK in time for this season, and we are excited to see them working in UK crops. The changes will increase output and offer users more options in a variety of different crops with an enhanced driveline for increased longevity.”
Prices start at £51,820 RRP.
