After a decade of meticulous design, experimentation, and rigorous testing, New Holland has unveiled its latest innovation in agricultural technology: the CR11 combine harvester. Manufactured in Zedelgem, Belgium, this state-of-the-art machine is set to redefine efficiency in the field, boasting the capacity to thresh an astounding 120 tons of wheat per hour under optimal conditions. The CR11 was recently showcased in a demonstration in Germany’s Magdeburger Börde, where, despite less than ideal conditions—including immature straw and light drizzle—the machine still showcased remarkable performance, processing between 75 to 80 tons of wheat per hour with an impressively low grain loss rate of just 0.1%.
The CR11 is not merely an evolution of its predecessor, the CR10.90; it introduces a series of technological advancements designed to maximize productivity while minimizing losses. One of the standout features is its chain-free drive concept. In a significant departure from traditional designs, the CR11 employs a direct drive system that eliminates belts and pulleys. This innovation not only simplifies the machine’s mechanics but also enhances its reliability and reduces maintenance needs. If the machine encounters a blockage, operators can simply engage a reverse function that clears the clog in under 30 seconds, drastically cutting down on downtime.
The machine’s design incorporates a longitudinally mounted FPT Cursor 16 engine, delivering a robust 775 horsepower. This engine is strategically positioned to minimize power loss, with a unique tilt that aligns the driveshaft for optimal efficiency. The CR11’s threshing system features two axial drums that work in conjunction with a Dynamic Feed Roll (DFR), which now benefits from a more efficient drive mechanism. The DFR not only feeds grain into the system but also acts as a stone catcher, enhancing the overall harvesting process.
With its larger rotors—now measuring 61 cm in diameter and 3.5 meters in length—the CR11 is engineered for superior performance. The rotors’ design allows for customizable settings, enabling operators to adjust concave clearance, rotor speed, and even the angle of the vanes to optimize the threshing process based on the specific crop being harvested. This level of customization is crucial for farmers facing varying conditions and crop types, allowing them to adapt and maintain efficiency.
Another notable feature is the machine’s advanced cleaning system, equipped with pressure sensors and an electric actuator. This technology automatically engages lateral shaking of the cleaning system when uneven grain distribution is detected, ensuring consistent and effective cleaning even on slopes or during uneven feeding. With a total sieve area of 8.76 square meters, the CR11 is designed to handle the most demanding harvesting scenarios, making it a valuable asset for modern farmers.
As New Holland positions the CR11 as a premium offering, it is expected to be priced approximately 15% higher than the CR10.90. This investment reflects the advanced technology and enhanced capabilities that the CR11 brings to the market. Given the increasing pressures on farmers to maximize yields while managing costs, the CR11’s ability to reduce grain loss and improve efficiency could represent a significant advantage in the competitive agricultural landscape.
Overall, the CR11 combine harvester exemplifies the future of farming machinery, where technology meets practicality to deliver unprecedented performance. As farmers continue to seek innovative solutions to enhance productivity and sustainability, the CR11 stands out as a powerful tool that could reshape harvesting practices for years to come.