BiG X 480 · 530 · 580 · 630

BiG X 480, 530, 580 and 630 – the compact precision forage harvesters from KRONE for outputs of 490 hp to 653 hp and maximum chopping quality and output as well as superior ease of use and operator comfort.

• 6 intake rollers for maximum reliability and best chop quality
• MaxFlow chopping drums with 20, 28, 36 blades, biogas chopping drum 40 blades
• KRONE VariLOC: flexible use in long and short cut
• OptiMaxx roller conditioners with 250 mm diameter, 570 mm width and slanted teeth for intensive kernel conditioning
• ­KRONE VariQuick: quick changeover for working with and without corn conditioner
• ­KRONE VariStream: Continuous crop flow ensured by spring-loaded floors for chopping drum and discharge accelerator
• Powerful and low-emission engines from 490 to 653 hp
• Great manoeuvrability from independent wheel suspension: For extreme manoeuvrability
• Comfort cabin: For optimum overview and comfort at the workplace

BiG X 480, 530, 580 and 630 – the compact precision forage harvesters from ­KRONE for outputs of 490 hp to 653 hp and maximum chopping quality and output as well as superior ease of use and operator comfort.

• KRONE chopping technology for optimum maize forage quality
• OptiMaize S, M, L, XL for variable chopping lengths from 4 mm to 30 mm
• KRONE MaxFlow and biogas chopping drums with different numbers of blades for producing the cutting length you need
• KRONE grain conditioners ensure optimum fracturing and kernel treatment
• KRONE VariLOC for flexible long and short chops without converting the machine

OptiMaize brings full flexibility to all KRONE BiG X forage harvesters, allowing them to produce any type of cutting length forage producers call for. MaxFlow and Biogas drums are available with various numbers of blades and combine with the specific KRONE conditioners for chop lengths of 4 mm to 30 mm.

The maize in dairy feed rations made up of more than 80 % by maize and that do not contain sufficient quantities of grass and feed straw should be chopped to 20 mm to 30 mm lengths to avoid lack of structure in the feed. The ideal drum for long chops is the MaxFlow chopping drum with 20 blades which is complemented by the ­KRONE OptiMaxx roller conditioner with 105/123 teeth and 30 %, 40 % or 50 % speed differentials.

Cutting lengths of 11 to 19 mm are ideal for dairy cattle with a maize content of around 60 % in the forage ration. Rumens require silage maize that is reach in fibres. The OptiMaize L chopping quality is achieved by the ­KRONE MaxFlow drums with 28 or 20 blades. As conditioning units, the ­KRONE OptiMaxx roller conditioners with 105/123 teeth are recommended for this purpose. Their speed difference can be increased from 30 % to 40 % or 50 %.

The ultra-strong class

• Modern, ergonomic design
• MAN engines with up to 1,110 hp certified output
• 6 intake rollers for boosted reliability and a top quality chop
• Universal MaxFlow chopping drums: 20, 28 or 36 blades
• Biogas chopping drums: 40 or 48 blades
• KRONE VariStream: spring-loaded drum floor and accelerator backplate for a continuous crop flow
• KRONE StreamControl: crop stream adjusted via accelerator backplate
• EasyCollect 1053: Higher efficiency from wider widths
  14 rows of maize in one pass

Grass based rations for beef bulls and dairy cows which consist of up to 40 % of maize should be made up of 8 mm to 10 mm chop lengths. This length of cut and an appropriate conditioning intensity avoids lack of fibre in the ration. OptiMaize M chopping quality is achieved by the MaxFlow chopping drums with 36 and 28 blades. The ideal conditioner is the ­KRONE OptiMaxx roller conditioner with 123/144 teeth whose speed differential can be increased from 30 % to 40 % or 50 %.

Maize that is harvested to fuel biogas plants is chopped to very short lengths. Depending on moisture levels, chops of 4 mm to 7 mm lengths have been found ideal for this application, because shorter chops make the energy readily available to the methane producing bacteria in the fermenter, thereby increasing gas yields. For harvesting biogas maize, ­KRONE forage harvesters are equipped with a biogas chopping drum fitted with 40 blades. Alternatively, OptiMaize S results can also be achieved with the 36-blade MaxFlow chopping drum. A ­KRONE OptiMaxx roller conditioner with 123/144 teeth at a speed difference of 30 % then fractures the crop and breaks up the maize kernels so that they ferment easily.

With cutting lengths of more than 20 mm, compaction takes significantly more effort. Clamping forage that is chopped to lengths longer than 20 mm requires more time and heavier equipment to eliminate the risk of mould and heating.

• Six intake rollers ensure a top-notch quality of chops
• High throughput with universal or biogas chopping drums
• OptiMaxx roller conditioner: Intensive conditioning
• VariStream: Continuous crop flow
• StreamControl: Optionally adjustable discharge distance
• VariQuick: Quick access to the grass channel or grain conditioner

When you’re looking to maximize throughputs with a top-quality chop, the technology must be up to the job. With the BiG X, ­KRONE offers a forage harvester which convinces by top cutting quality, highest throughput and maximum user comfort thanks to the direct crop flow and the numerous innovative details which meet the requirements of successful service providers and make the working day easier.

The intake System

• Helps achieve the desired chop length
• 6 hydraulic intake rollers
• The Speed is set steplessly from the cab

Chopping drum

• The guarantee for top quality chops
• MaxFlow chopping drums with 20, 28 or 36 blades
• Biogas chopping drum with 40 and 48 blades

VariStream

• Maximum throughput
• Spring-loaded floor underneath the chopping drum
• Spring-loaded accelerator backplate
• Outstanding chopping Quality even in inconsistent crop flows

VariQuick

• Minimum changeover between grass and corn/maize
• Quick changeovers between corn conditioning and harvesting grass
• Removing the corn conditioner is convenient using a lowering mechanism

The OptiMaxx roller conditioners

• 250 or 305 mm diameter and 710 mm wide rollers for maximum performance
• Slanted teeth give a unique shearing effect for perfect cracking
• Up to 50% speed difference for optimum fracturing results

StreamControl

• Powerful crop accelerator
• Adjust crop throw from the cab
• Precision fills of following trailers
• Reduced power when filling Trailers running alongside
• No losses

• 6 pre-compression rollers for top-quality chops
• Hydraulic drive
• Stepless adjustment of the chop length from the cab
• Automatic adjustment of the chop length via AutoScan or NIR sensor
• Maximum protection against foreign objects
• Long path from metal detector to chopping drum
• Metal detection across the entire channel width

On a BiG X, it is also the intake system that has an influence on the quality of chop. The six intake rollers compress the chopping crops consistently at a high pressure so that it is easier and more precisely to chop. The hydraulic drive of the intake system allows operators to choose between setting the cutting length manually or automatically.

Maximum throughputs are guaranteed from the huge opening between the six intake rollers. The robust drives for the pre-compression rollers are designed for heavy-duty use.

Adjustable tension springs ensure high contact pressure of the intake rollers and uniformly high compaction of the crop material for the best chop quality.

The intake system can be folded forwards for easy inspection access to the chopping drum and counterblade.

Metal detection sensors covering the full width are installed in the front lower intake roller. They ensure full-width detection of metal carried into the unit.

The intake system can be supported on wheels for fast access to the chopping assembly.

Six pre-compression rollers and an 820 mm gap between the leading roller with metal detector and the rearmost roller not only enhance pre-compression but also protect the blades better against metal objects, even at high-speed intake. The hydraulic driveshaft automatically adjusts the LOC in line with the maturity of the crop, which is detected by the ­KRONE AutoScan sensor. If the engine speed drops below 1,200 rpm as the load increases, the header and intake system are stopped automatically while the chopping drum continues to turn – because blockages caused by low speeds cost time and money.

• Chopping drums with 20, 28, 36 or 40-blades for OptiMaize S to XL
• High flywheel mass: Closed drums with a diameter of 660 mm
• Top chop quality: Drums with a width of 630 mm matched to BiG X 480, 530, 580 and 630
• Low fuel consumption: High flywheel mass, pulling cut

Matching the drum dimensions to the harvester model and choosing the optimum number and shape of blades not only boosts the power of the BiG X but also makes the OptiMaize S, M, L, and XL more flexible to suit more applications. The wide range of drums available for BiG X deliver a top-quality chop in any conditions anywhere in the world – at top performance levels.

The BiG X can be fitted with grass or maize blades. Oblong holes on the blades allow for precision adjustment relative to the counterblade and protect the blades against breakage when they hit foreign objects.

The blades on the ­KRONE chopping drums are arranged chevron-style and at an angle of 11° relative to the counterblade. This arrangement makes for a continuous crop flow, extremely quiet running and maximum efficiency.

To ensure good chop quality, it is not only the number of blades that is decisive, but also the layer thickness of the crop passing through and therefore the width of the chopping drum. Therefore ­KRONE designed a wider 630 mm chopping drum for the BiG X 480, 530, 580 and 630 which carries the customary high chopping quality of the high-capacity harvesters with 800 mm drums over to the smaller models.

• For grass, wilted crops, whole crop silage and maize in OptiMaize S, M, L, XL
• Chopping drums with 20, 28, or 36 blades
• Large conveyor space under the blade carriers
• Blades are quick and easy to insert and remove

The MaxFlow chopping drums are specially designed for conditioning of high-quality silage. Harvesting wilted crops with unevenly formed swaths is a challenge for the chopping drum; therefore, its blade supports have a special shape which leaves more room under the blades. Larger ‘pockets’ and the spring-loaded drum base result in extremely smooth running and high power reserves. So BiG X makes light work of temporary crop accumulations.

This drum cuts the kind of long lengths that are called for in some countries. Cutting length range: 20 blades: 5 – 29 mm

The 28-blade chopping drum is fit for universal application; with half a set of blades, it is perfectly suited for use with larger cutting lengths. Cutting length range: 28 blades: 4 – 22 mm, 14 blades: 8 – 42 mm

With a high flowthrough volume in a wide range of cutting lengths, the 36-blade chopping drum pays for itself very quickly. With half a set of blades, it is perfectly suited for use with larger cutting lengths. Cutting length range: 36 blades: 3 – 17 mm, 18 blades: 6 – 34 mm

The blade carriers are arranged and designed to allow plenty of space under the blades. More room for conveying crops means higher flowthrough volume and quieter running, particularly with large cutting lengths.

To ensure a good quality cut, the knife and the counterblade must be exactly the right distance apart. The knives are quick and easy to align via the eccentric plate.

Each blade is screwed to the chopping drum with three hexagon head screws only. The blades are also held by the blade support of the drum arranged above the blades.

The KRONE OptiMaize chopping drum offers a wide range of technical solutions that achieve an equally wide range of chop lengths. With a full or half set of blades, the KRONE chopping drums allow users perfect adjustment of the chop lengths to the respective application.

• 40 blades arranged in V-shape
• High frequency of cuts
• High productivity
• OptiMaize S
• High gas yields

With its 40 blades, the KRONE biogas drum chops the crops very thoroughly. OptiMaize S achieves very short chop lengths which enable high throughputs both on the machine and in the fermenter, making BiG X a major factor in biogas plant productivity.

With short chop lengths, the 40-blade ­KRONE biogas drum increases the throughput by almost 25 % compared to the 28-blade MaxFlow chopping drum. The fuel consumption per ton of chopped crops is reduced by up to approx. 16 %.*

40 blades can achieve an impressively high cutting frequency. So the biogas drum cuts harvesting time and increases throughput – even when producing short chop lengths.

With its higher throughputs and lower fuel consumption per tonne of chopped maize, the 40-blade Biogas cylinder pays for itself in no time. With a theoretical cutting length of 2.5 to 15 mm, the short chopping crops increase the efficiency in the fermenter of a biogas unit. Thanks to the improved gas yield per m³ of chopped material, the cultivation area for biogas can be reduced.

• OptiMaize is a versatile and unique system
• Cutting length gearbox for flexible use in short and long cut applications
• Changeover of the drum speed is a matter of a few minutes
• No machine conversion, no up-front planning

VariLOC is a gearbox in the pulley of the chopping drum. By simply changing the drum speed from 1,250 to 800 rpm using a standard open-end wrench, you can increase the chopping drum’s LOC range by up to 50 %. This makes a quick changeover between long or short chops possible. You can fulfil your customers' fluctuating demands without any conversion or up-front planning. Combined with the new 105/123 tooth roller conditioner (with 30 %, 40 % or 50 % speed difference), this gearbox turns your BiG X into an all-rounder and gives you maximum flexibility.

The ­KRONE VariLOC is available for the ­KRONE MaxFlow drums with 28 and 36 blades. The manual gearbox makes it possible to cover the entire cutting length range from OptiMaize S to XL entirely according to your requirements with a 28 and 36 MaxFlow.

The KRONE VariLOC increases the cutting lengths that are available from the MaxFlow chopping drums with 28 and 36 blades. For the 36-blade chopping drum it increases the range by 50 % from 3 – 17 mm to 3 – 24 mm. For the 28-blade drum it increases the range by 45 %, which means from 4 – 22 mm to 4 – 30 mm. This allows operators to adjust the chop length flexibly as the application changes.

Our roller conditioners redesigned

• 570 mm wide and 250 mm diameter OptiMaxx roller conditioners
• Slanted teeth for perfect conditioning to combine with OptiMaize S-XL drums
• BusaCLAD-Special coating technology for maximum service life
• The gap between the rollers is conveniently adjusted from the cab
• A strong spring assembly provides a consistent and high pressure
• Maximum fracturing from an up to 50% speed difference (option)

Every single kernel must be cracked to achieve an optimal digestibility. These user demands are perfectly met by the new OptiMaxx roller conditioners with their slanted teeth, a new KRONE development. The rollers score on a massive 250 mm diameter and a 570 mm width

With the new OptiMaxx 250, KRONE presents a roller conditioner that offers an even higher performance for the BiG X 480, 530, 580, 630 models. This new development stands out for the following features:

• 250 mm diameter rollers have slanted teeth that give a unique shearing effect
• The two rollers in the assembly have different numbers of teeth:
  – 105/123 for medium and long chopping lengths
  – 123/144 for short and medium chopping lengths
• A standard 30% speed difference with a 40% or 50% differential being an option
  for intensive fracturing and optimum cracking results
• HD rollers are available as an option, featuring the innovative BusaCLAD coating technology
  – Best protection from wear and longest service life in all harvest conditions.

The operator can control the roller distance from the cabin, adjusting it infinitely to the current conditions. The current setting is shown on the display screen.

The two toothed rollers operate at a 30% speed difference. This standard difference can now increase to 40-50% to deliver 100% conditioning and fracturing of long chops as produced by OptiMaize XL.

The new OptiMaxx roller conditioners have their teeth slanted at a 5° angle. This slant produces a clearly higher shearing effect and perfect conditioning of the crop which receives a very intensive treatment both length- and sideways.

• Fast changeovers from grass channel to corn conditioning and vice versa
• A chain drive lowers the unit conveniently
• The changeover takes just a few minutes
• Fast and easy removal of the grain conditioner

VariQuick is the system that allows operators to converse BiG X very quickly from maize to grass and the other way round. A chain drive (electric option) moves the corn conditioner out of or into the crop flow. If the corn conditioner is not used for longer periods of time, you can lower it and remove it from the machine by pulling it out to the side.

If the corn conditioner is not used for an extended period of time, you can lower it with the help of the chain drive and then remove it.

The chain drive moves the corn conditioner out of the crop flow and into its parking position so work can temporarily continue in grass without any major changeover.

In this position, the crop flows through the corn conditioner. This way, the conditioner can subject the kernels to intensive treatment to make the nutrients available.

After the transport wheels are fitted without tools, the corn conditioner pulls out to the side and is conveniently rolled to the shed.

Change from maize to grass or from whole crop silage to grass on the move – either using a chain drive with crank handle or an electric motor as an option. This allows BiG X to change from maize to grass or from whole crop silage to grass flexibility and quickly.

• Consistently smooth performance despite inconsistent crop flows
• Extremely quiet running even in uneven swaths
• High throughputs
• Top quality chop
• Perfect operator comfort

VariStream comprises spring-loaded floors beneath the chopping drum and behind the discharge accelerator rotor. The system ensures blockage-free and smooth operation, even in varying volumes of crop. The technology allows operators to utilise the forager to its limit and use less fuel per hour.

The spring-loaded rear wall of discharge accelerator ensures maximum discharge capacity and fills the transport wagon dead on target in all conditions.

The spring-loaded chopping drum base is connected to the anvil of the counterblade at the front. As these are readjusted, the gap between the blades and floor does not change. So any movement of the spring-loaded drum base in compensation of bigger crop lumps will not affect the quality of chop.

Every forage harvester operator is familiar with this: Lumps in uneven swaths absorb operator attention, reduce productivity and may cause blockages in the spout. The chopping drum floor and the rear wall of discharge accelerator are both spring-loaded to momentarily extend the crop flow channel when the volume surges temporarily. The flexible channel cross-section helps to relieve the engine and the chopper units and makes for quieter running and higher outputs.

• Adjustable discharge distance from the cab as an option
• Tight crop stream even with a long crop discharge
• The shorter the crop discharge, the less power is needed
• Fills the transport wagon accurately without spillage

The crop throw is controlled from the cab by adjusting the flap in the rear wall on the discharge accelerator.This way, operators can adjust the throw quickly to the current filling situation. As the accelerator needs less power to cover a short distance, the operator can free up engine output and use it for chopping and higher throughputs.

The hinged flap on the rear wall of discharge accelerator is adjusted infinitely via an electric motor.

The additional discharge distance control in the armrest offers maximum operator comfort.

The throw is quickly changed on the joystick controls.

The crop discharge is controlled via the hinged flap on the rear wall of discharge accelerator. For a short-distance discharge, the flap moves out of the crop flow, so there is little contact between the crop and the accelerator. For a long-distance discharge, the flap moves into the crop flow, so there is more contact between the crop and the accelerator.

The paddles are designed for high crop output and guide the powerful crop flow towards the middle.

With the trailer following behind, the crop stream needs to be ejected from the spout at a higher speed. A strong, tight stream is needed to cover the long distance over the tractor to the rear wall of the trailer.

For a small discharge distance and trailers driving in parallel, it is of advantage when the crop stream is ejected at slow speed. The "weaker" stream frees up power reserves that can be used for an increased chopping performance.

• Convenient attachment and removal
• Maximum safety
• Very short set-up times
• Compact combination

The multi-coupler system of the BiG X allows operators to couple headers fast, easy and dependably from the seat, reducing changeover times when preparing for road travel or different crops.This way, more time is spent on productive work.

The multi-coupler couples the header reliably and easily. The coupler is spring-loaded as an option. The drive train is automatically locked in this process. The frictional connection copes with the highest loads.

The header is locked by means of bolts at the bottom beam of the carrier frame. These pins can be operated hydraulically as an option from the seat for convenient header attachment.

The header pivots laterally on the hoop that is trapped in the guide rollers. This type of attachment is easy and straightforward and makes for a large pivoting range.

The two guide rolls on the base machine trap the curved round steel bracket on the header. Attaching the header to the base machine is as simple as that.

Hydraulic cylinders on the sides of the pivoting bottom carrier allow the header to actively follow the ground contours. The hydraulic cylinders are made pressureless to give free pivoting.

The robust carrying frame features guide rollers at the top and a carrying bar at the bottom with locking pins (hydraulic as an option) which make attachment and removal easy and convenient and give accurate control to the header.

• More power, quieter running, less wear
• Infinite speed adjustment from the driver's seat
• Automatic pick-up speed adjustment to the current driving speed
• Quick coupler and coupling hoop make for quick header attachment and perfect contouring
• Six rows of tines in W-arrangement

The camless EasyFlow 300 S and 380 S pick-ups by KRONE have neither deflection rolls nor cam tracks. Compared with conventional pick-ups, EasyFlow has up to 58% fewer moving parts, which makes it impressively smooth running, low-wear and therefore inexpensive in service and maintenance. EasyFlow operates 30% faster for cleaner gathering and increased productivity.

The side drives for the pick-up and the auger conveyor are robust enough to handle even the toughest loads. They are fitted with automatic clutches for overload protection.

The serrated infeed plates can be set to one of two positions to provide different levels of aggressiveness, giving you the flexibility to respond to all conditions.

Replaceable Hardox wear plates increase the lifetime of the trough in the intake area. Hardox is extremely durable and convinces also in the most demanding conditions.

The large, 600 mm diameter auger performs impressively even in dense, over-long crops.

Depending on the working width, one or two rear cam follower rollers optimise ground tracking. The height of the cam follower rollers is adjustable.

The height-adjustable guide wheels which follow up on the sides move hydraulically into transport position - simply upon a touch of button.

Its stepless height adjustment function and adjustable spring-loaded suspension allows the crop press roller to roll smoothly and adapt easily to varying swath widths.

The EasyFlow has an adjustable large-volume crop press roller unit as a standard feature. This ensures a uniform flow of material into the machine also at high work rates.

Six rows of double tines allow for even crop collection while keeping the load and the power requirement to a minimum. Not only does this pick-up gather the crop effectively but it also maintains a consistent flow in lumpy swaths for an excellent quality of chop.

With a working width of 3.00 m or 3.80 m and six rows of tines, the uncontrolled ­KRONE EasyFlow 300 S and 380 S pick-ups are extremely powerful and leave nothing lying around. Depending on the swath width and your working speed, you can vary EasyFlow rpm steplessly from the driver's seat or have it adjusted automatically to the current forward speed without the operator having to interfere. Its curved round steel bracket gives the header the flexibility to pivot through a large angle and makes for easy attachment and removal.

When the machine reverses, the auger conveyor and the crop press roller unit are raised automatically to give easy access to the intake system so foreign objects that were detected by the metal detector can be removed conveniently. When work is resumed, the holding-down clamp and the auger automatically return to their working position.

Quick-change blades are a must for many farmers and contractors, because this way they can replace blades quickly and easily on the site.

With some cutting discs turning in pairs towards each other and others turning away from each other, it was necessary to redesign the degree of blade overlap to ensure cleanest swaths. For a stripeless swath, we have therefore increased blade overlaps on the cutter blades turning outwards between the discs turning away from each other. In addition, the blades turning to the rear are set further apart to encourage a smooth flow of large volumes of crop.

If the system is suddenly overloaded, the impact is not directed to the spur wheels in the cutterbar, instead the roll pins in the sprocket drive shaft shear off. The pinion shaft, which continues rotating, turns the cutting disc upwards via a lifting thread. moving it out of the risk zone and the orbit of the neighbouring discs. As a result, SafeCut prevents damage to the spur wheels and the neighbouring discs. The roll pins are replaced within a few minutes, saving costs and minimizing downtime.

You know it too well – foreign objects can cause great damage and costly repairs. ­KRONE SafeCut offers a maximum of protection and peace of mind. A unique technology protects the cutting discs from foreign objects. The XDisc comes with SafeCut as standard.

KRONE XDisc is the versatile specialist mower for whole crop silage that cuts the crop cleanly and without wastage. The huge 900 mm diameter auger makes the unit enormously powerful and has no trouble picking up very long and bulky material.

Fitting and removing the XDisc is quick and easy. With the rolls of the quick coupling, the harvester moves under the tubular frame of the XDisc. The spring-loaded quick coupling for the drive and the hydraulic locking system are available as options and increase the operator convenience.

The powerful and massive 900 mm diameter feed auger works trouble-free even in dense and tall crops. It pivots freely and can be reversed. the auger coilings have replaceable Hardox steel wear plates.

• 7.10 m working width for even greater throughput
• Clean cut thanks to EasyCut mower technology
• Optional: Side cutting blades can be conveniently swivelled out of the cabin
• Optional: Crop press roller unit for an even crop flow
• Optional: Integrated transport chassis for minimised setup times

The KRONE XDisc 710, a direct cut header with a working width of over 7 m and optional integrated transport chassis, sets new standards in terms of throughput and comfort. The 900 mm diameter feed auger can be adjusted three times in the base height, enabling optimum throughput. Optional side cutting blades are available which can be conveniently swivelled out of the cabin.

The XDisc 710 can be optionally equipped with side cutting blades which can be easily and conveniently swivelled up and down independently of each other hydraulically from the cabin of the forage harvester. This innovative and unique function offers an enormous advantage: efficient utilisation of the maximum working width prevents harvest losses from laterally protruding ears or climbing plant parts at the edge of the crop; this would occur if the cutting blade was not actively swivelled upwards.

To ensure a continuous crop flow even in dense and tall crops, the XDisc 710 can be optionally equipped with a crop press roller unit. This ensures an even crop flow to prevent blockages and enables smooth operation even under extreme conditions.

As there is no need to find a parking space for the transport wagon, there is also no need for awkward manoeuvring before harvesting begins. The XDisc 710 is easy to handle thanks to a swivelling single axle on the right next to the header adaptation and a folding drawbar with support jack on the left front side. By hydraulically swivelling the drawbar and axle, both chassis parts disappear behind the header during field work, leaving the working area clear

For transport on public roads, the chassis is swivelled under and the drawbar hydraulically next to the direct cut header. After the folding process, the direct cut header is attached to the tow coupling of the forage harvester. The integrated transport chassis replaces the additional transport wagon which was previously required, thereby making field changes considerably easier. Thanks to its innovative design, the direct cut header can be transported on the road safely and in compliance with the law as a stand-alone unit with an integrated lighting unit.

The drive chain for the auger conveyor is actively lubricated – this helps to minimise maintenance work on the direct cut header and to increase the service life of the drive chain

For a consistently clean cut in all conditions, the bearing pressure can be infinitely adjusted from the cabin of the forage harvester. The cutting height can be adjusted very easily and without tools using the centrally adjustable ground skids. If it is necessary to adjust the cutting angle, this is possible via a 3-way adjustable hole pattern on the round arch holding fixture.

The KRONE XDisc 710 impresses not only with its performance, but also with its outstanding accessibility and ease of maintenance. To change the blades, the guard cloth is folded up and the blades are replaced using the quick release fastener. The blades can be removed quickly and easily using the standard spare blade drawer. In addition, the centre hood can be easily swivelled upwards to allow free access to the intake rollers.

The large 900 mm diameter feed auger is designed for high throughputs. Its speed can be adjusted in three stages to the intake speed of the forage harvester, depending on the cutting length of the mown crop. In addition, the base height of the auger conveyor can be manually adjusted in three stages using eccentrics to allow the crops to pass through in the appropriate way. In addition, the free-moving auger conveyor can simply deflect upwards in the case of bulky crops.

The powerful XDisc 710 is characterised by its exceptional robustness, enormous efficiency and high throughput. Two rigidly connected cutterbars are driven in a force-fit manner via universal shafts and angular gearboxes, starting from a central input gearbox. This guarantees an even cut even at maximum throughput, essential for outstanding chop quality. The drive train is specially designed for high input power and does not require an overload clutch. The auger conveyor is protected by a star ratchet clutch integrated into the gearbox and is driven by an actively lubricated chain drive, thereby ensuring a long service life

With its impressive working width of 7.10 m, the KRONE XDisc 710 direct cut header sets new standards in terms of performance. Thanks to its precise cut and perfect crop flow, it offers an extremely efficient solution for harvesting energy crops. With its integrated transport chassis, it also makes it quick and easy to move between locations, further increasing efficiency

• Direct cut headers with 6.20 m or 7.10 m working width
• High throughput low power requirement
• KRONE EasyCut mower technology Proven the world over
• KRONE SafeCut Unique protection for cutting discs
• Powerful feed auger with replaceable HARDOX wear plates

Based on the proven KRONE
EasyCut mower
technology, the BiG X with the XDisc direct cut
headers can mow and chop whole crop silage
in one operation. SmartCut ensures high cutting
performance with the best cutting quality,
while SafeCut prevents damage from foreign
objects.

KRONE XDisc is the versatile specialist mower for whole crop silage that cuts the crop cleanly and without wastage. With its huge 900 mm diameter auger conveyor, the BiG X is extremely powerful and can easily pick up even long and bulky crops.

The direct cut header stores quickly and easily on the bespoke trailer with integral braking system for safe travel on public roads.

Fitting/removing the XDisc is quick and easy. The two guide rolls on the base machine trap the curved round steel bracket on the header. The spring-loaded quick driveline coupler and the hydraulic locking system are options.

The cutterbar is driven by an angular gearbox, the auger is driven by a chain. The overrunning clutch inside the cutterbar allows the discs to come gradually to a standstill instead of stopping abruptly when the machine is shut off. The auger features overload protection in the form of a star ratchet.

The direct cut header can be equipped with side knives as an option. The two knives are driven hydraulically and ensure loss-free harvesting of entangled crops like vetch rye mixes or whole crop silage mixes.

An optional crop press roller is available for the XDisc header which optimises the crop flow into the machine when harvesting high-yielding and tall stands. The roller enjoys blockage-free work even in extreme conditions

The huge 900 mm diameter feed auger gives BiG X enormous throughput capacities. The pivoting unit has a reversing mechanism and the auger flights have replaceable Hardox steel wear plates.

The SafeCut feature on the disc mower prevents a damaged disc from colliding with the blades on the neighbouring discs preventing damage to the spur gears. The XDisc comes with SafeCut as standard.

Quick-change blades are a must for many farmers and contractors, because this way they can replace blades quickly and easily on the site.

SafeCut centres on a roll pin that connects each disc to the gear and shears off upon impact with a foreign object.As a result the affected discs jacks up on a thread and out of the risk zone. The disc is not lost.

As the mower discs turn in both directions, the individual orbits must overlap precisely to ensure a clean cut. To reduce streaking cuts we have increased blade overlaps on the discs turning outwards. In addition, the blades turning to the rear are now further apart to promote smooth flows of large volumes of crop.

• Variable-row maize headers with 6 m to 9 m working widths
• Best quality of chop, fewer overlength fractions from linear crop feed
• Simple technology and low input power
• The central gearbox

An extra running gear is available as an option for the two-piece EasyCollect model offering maximum road safety.
The variable-row EasyCollect header is a versatile unit that feeds the stalks lengthwise into the machine, which translates into an unsurpassed quality of chop, as a coarse chop is the last thing livestock farmers or biogas producers want. The unique collector principle cuts labour costs and has proved its worth time and again the world over.

The EasyCollect intake channel dimensions match the width of the chopping drum and ensure maximum throughput and a top quality chop The inline flow of the crop and the large intake combine to provide a steady and very tidy crop feed.

When the autopilot is enabled, the sensor arms on the central tip of the maize header scan the distance between two maize rows. Then the BiG X is guided automatically along that row, which helps reduce operator fatigue.

The plant divider adjusts its height hydraulically to different stalk lengths, so the tubular bars at the top grab the stalks and pull them into the chopper unit.

The ground tracers on either end of EasyCollect help maintain a uniform stubble height even in undulating terrain. They signal EasyCollect to follow the set working height in and across the direction of travel.

EasyCollect can handle any situation. EasyCollect gathers the individual rows of maize firmly and feeds them to the middle of the header and into the chopper unit. It is this tidy and lengthwise feed that accounts for the outstanding quality of the chop.

EasyCollect maize heads are built to a simple and modular design with endlessly moving collectors. This design leads to a much lighter weight, less maintenance and a long service life.

An additional running gear is available for the two-piece maize headers which shifts weight to the front axle for safer and even more convenient road travel. The running gear is conveniently locked and unlocked from the cab.

The two-piece maize headers stand out for their straightforward design and uncluttered build. Its narrow transport width, its slim design and excellent visibility translate into safe travel between fields.

The drive power flows efficiently from the central gearbox down auto-coupling driveshafts to the folding collectors.

Rigid multi-section blades and endlessly moving blades combine to sever the stalks with scissor-like cuts. The blades are self-sharpening and easy to replace.

With working widths between 6 m and 9.00 m, the BiG X 480, 530, 580 and 630 can be equipped with two- or three-part variable-row headers for chopping maize. The endless collectors convey the cut plants to the middle, where they are fed lengthwise to the intake. This guaranteed top chop quality with few excess lengths.

• Available work widths are 6 m, 7.50 m and 9 m.
• Variable-row harvesting with rotating sickle discs
• Operates to the collector principle, splits the processes of cutting and feeding
• A smooth and soft cut eliminates vibrations and crop loss
• Operators adjust the cutting frequency infinitely variably to suit the prevailing harvest conditions

KRONE adds new XCollect headers to the long-standing and well-proven EasyCollect series. The XCollect headers split cutting and feeding into two separate processes, responding to customer demands to deal with diverse harvest conditions around the world.

The high-speed sickle discs cut the stalks and defibrate the stubble for optimum breakdown.

BiG X 580 and 630 PowerSplit: PowerSplit adapts the engine output automatically to the harvest conditions. EcoPower is used in situations in which less engine power is needed. XPower delivers maximum output for tough conditions. This technology gives you more flexibility and saves fuel.

The sickle discs rotate on one plane, cutting the stalks without squeezing them. This technology minimizes vibration avoiding cob loss.

BiG X 580 and 630 PowerSplit: PowerSplit adapts the engine output automatically to the harvest conditions. EcoPower is used in situations in which less engine power is needed. XPower delivers maximum output for tough conditions. This technology gives you more flexibility and saves fuel.

The wings on the three-piece XCollect headers easily fold up into their transport position. This design leads to a 3 m transport width for the XCollect 600-3 and 750-3 and a 3.29 m width for the XCollect 900-3 which have optimised hydraulic rams that lift and lower the wings even faster.

Star ratchet clutches protect the sickle disc driveline from overload. Speed sensors scan the speeds of two discs and send potential overload information to the operator terminal. In addition to this, a friction lining on each disc offers additional protection.

The header has three sensor skids, one in the middle and two out on the ends, for optimum contouring and clean cuts in undulating fields and for clean forage.

The well-proven collector feeds the stalks lengthwise to the chopping drum.It is this linear crop feed that enables precision chops and minimum overlengths. The variable collector speed is standard and ensures a consistently high quality of chop.

The ingenious guard for the maize header is an option that forms an integral part of the header. It moves automatically in and out of position when the header folds into road or work position. The operator just presses a button. No need to leave the cab. A very convenient solution that reduces changeover times and boosts productivity.

Operators can select one of two speeds to adjust the cutting frequency to the individual crop and harvest conditions.

The stalks are cut by high-rpm sickle discs which rotate on massive bolts that connect them to the drive train. The cut stalks are then fed to the chopping drum by endless collectors above the discs which ensure a uniform lengthwise feed.

The new XCollect header is available in three work widths: 600-3: 6 m (8 rows), 750-3: 7.50 m (10 rows) and 900-3: 9 m (12 rows). The three-section headers work to the well-proven EasyCollect collector principle. The XCollect splits the action of cutting and feeding into two separate processes.

• 6-cylinder MTU in-line engine
• Final Tier 4 / Stage V compliant
• 490-653 hp continuous engine output
• High efficiency and quiet running

Cutting-edge technology from MTU takes engine power and economy to a new dimension. Common Rail injection and optimal torque synchronization translate into smooth running, low fuel consumption, high efficiency and minimal maintenance. The innovative KRONE power management guarantees highest efficiency with maximum throughput.

With a rotating sieve and an active exhaust above the discharge accelerator, the cooling system provides cooling also in the presence of dust and crop residues in the air. The active exhaust is initiated with the start of the cutter drum, the sieve with the start of the engine.

The engine is mounted sideways and far back for optimum weight distribution. The power flows from the engine directly to the components for crop flow - a setup that ensures maximum efficiency. The Common Rail injection makes the MTU in-line engines very efficient.

As an option, operators can control the engine output with a touch of a button. They can operate the machine in the fuel-efficient Eco-Power mode whenever the full power is not needed. Vice versa, when the full power is needed, you simply switch to X-Power mode. The machine does this automatically and continuously variably depending on the current conditions. Another useful feature is the optional engine speed management which boosts efficiencies and fuel economy.

• Simple design
• An extra-strong poly V-belt transmits engine power to the crop assemblies
• Long service life
• Separate drive for the intake rollers and the headers: Rollers and headers are reversible if the chopping drum suddenly stops
• Separate and dependable driveline to the drive pumps

The transversely mounted engine allows the drive pump, the chopping drum, the crop accelerator, the header and intake pumps to take the engine power directly off poly V-belts. No power take-off gear is required. All components for crop flow are activated via belt coupling.

All components inside the crop flow are powered by two 6-groove poly V-belts. The hydraulic pumps that drive header and intake are arranged in the centre of the vehicle and can be switched on and off independent of the components for crop flow. This design allows for reversing of intake and header with the cutter drum at standstill. The brake of the chopping drum is integrated in the drive and offers maximum reliability.

Courtesy of a hydro pump that is flange-mounted on the main gearbox, BiG X changes its ground speed infinitely variably.

The header and intake system are driven by oil pumps. Flange mounted to a gearbox, these pumps are driven by a separated poly V-belt that transmits engine power directly to the pumps. This concept allows for infinite adjustment of header and intake speeds.

• Front-wheel drive is standard; four-wheel drive is an option
• Powerful wheel motors from Bosch-Rexroth
• Traction control with three travel modes
• Infinitely variable 0-40 km/h speed range

The hydrostatic wheel motors offer greater productivity and a higher level of automation and operator convenience. At the same time, this type of power train reduces maintenance and frees valuable space to fit a bigger and more powerful chopping assembly and move this further to the rear of the machine.

The BiG X 480, 530, 580 and 630 can be fitted with up to 900/60 R 42 tyres. The massive tyres guarantee maximum ground clearance, smallest ground pressure and ultimate operator comfort.

Tracks are available for the BiG X 480, 530, 580, 630 models so these can go into wet and boggy fields. The advantage of tracks over wheels is that they offer a larger footprint for reduced compaction in difficult continues. The 76 cm tracks bring the total machine width to 3.00 m.

With tyre sizes 710/70 R 42 and 800/65 R 32, the vehicle width is 3.00 m - for safe travelling on narrow roads.

The use of wheel motors allows the wheels to turn through 50° for tightest turns and perfect match-ups after headland turns with an 8-row maize header.

A KRONE exclusive! The wheel motors are mounted eccentrically on the front axle which allows you to fit small or large tyres and still retain the position of the pick-up, the intake system and chopping drum floor relative to the downstream crop flow. This detail warrants an optimum and consistent crop flow.

The independent wheel suspension system offers plenty of room for steering so that even when clad with massive tyres, the BiG X remains a very nimble machine in undulating terrain. The spring-mounted independent suspension provides premium operator comfort.

Under pressure: Adjustable coil springs keep up the pressure on the crop from the intake rollers, ensuring strong crop compaction and top chopping results.

Top technology for top silage
On a compact forage harvester, it's the intake components that determine the chop quality. And the intake rollers play a particularly vital role: the higher and more constant the pressure on the crop, the better the chop quality. So BiG X features a long intake system and six high-pressure intake rollers which make for an easier and more precise chop. The LOC can be adjusted steplessly either by hand or automatically courtesy of hydraulic drives on the intake rollers.

The operator decides which of the three travel modes to use. The mode that reduces wheel slip is usually selected when the focus is on protecting the sward. Maize foraging usually takes place in a mode that tolerates a higher wheel slip or even with traction control deactivated.

The wheels are driven by Bosch planetary gearboxes. Planetary gearboxes offer the advantage of distributing the load to several planetary wheels which are compact and enable high torques.

Courtesy of a hydro pump that is flange-mounted on the main gearbox, BiG X changes its ground speed infinitely variably. Thanks to standard independent wheel monitoring and traction control system, the BiG X has no trouble mastering difficult terrains.

The drive concept with hydraulic wheel motors provides for additional ground clearance, frees room for a larger diameter chopping drum and also leads to a more even weight distribution. The spring-loaded rear suspension ensures maximum driving comfort.

BiG X 480, BiG X 530, BiG X 580 and BiG X 630 are available with optional hydraulic four-wheel drive via wheel motors. Machines with front-wheel drive have hubs on the rear wheels instead of wheel motors. Both drive trains are designed for speeds of up to 40 km/h.

• LED lights are an option for best visibility at night
• Huge fuel capacity: up to 1450 litres of diesel with the optional additional tank
• Easy access for maintenance work

Long working days, sometimes even deep into the night, take a toll on the operator's endurance and concentration. This obviously requires excellent all-round visibility and full illumination at night, which is exactly what BiG X offers. The up to 1,450-litre fuel tanks hold enough diesel reduce the number of time-consuming top-ups and boost productivity Optimum access to all components ensures trouble-free service and maintenance.

The huge fuel tank provided as a standard holds up to 1,220 litres of diesel. An additional tank holds 115 litres of urea. The result are many hours of work without interruption for fuelling up. In addition to that, you can also opt for a 230l fuel tank and a 275l silage additive tank.

There’s plenty of room between the cooling system and the crop flow on the BiG X 480, 530, 580 and 630 models, giving easy access to all components for cleaning and maintenance.

The hoods open wide and the rear mudguards give perfect access to all assemblies. LEDs are in place for easy service and maintenance even in poor light conditions.

The low back section gives the operator excellent rear visibility – ideal for manoeuvring and turning on headlands.

16 headlights for optimum illumination make night work easier and safer. If you who want even more light you can opt for the LED lighting kit.

• Plenty of space and optimum climate control
• Large window screens offer perfect all-round visibility
• Maximum seating and operator comfort throughout a long working day
• User-friendly operator terminal with colour-display touch screen

New premium cab developed to the latest ergonomic insights Providing generous space and an extra seat, it offers a fully air-conditioned and absolutely functional working place, where the operator feels at home and has full command of all functions and controls.

An 8” touch colour touch screen with USB and camera ports is standard specification on the BiG X (12” as an option). The terminal logs all major machine and harvest data and displays the camera feeds from the spout and rear end. Here you enter all kinds of settings including the infinitely variable chop length.

The ergonomic shape of the multi-function lever with its user-friendly icons makes work easier and increases the operator comfort. Designed specifically for the BiG X, it fits the hand nicely. With more than 20 functions programmed to it, the lever not only controls driving speed and direction of travel but also the header and spout.

The new Premium (Comfort) cab offers a most comfy working environment where you’ll like to spend the day. The seat is ventilated and heated and has pneumatic suspension and all controls are in easy reach. The steering column offers three setting options that allow you adjust the tilt to your individual needs. The Comfort cab also has a cooled thermos box under the buddy seat. This working place is a pleasure to use.

A roller blind on the front window and optional blinds on the rear and side windows protect against glare and bright sunlight.

No matter the conditions – rain or dust –BiG X operators always enjoy a clear view thanks to three optional wipers on the front window, two on the side windows and one on the rear window. All wipers have spray nozzles for optimum cleaning.

The wide and slim posted cab offers plenty of space and best view of the headers with wide working widths. The double floor gives effective insulation from noise. 14 halogen head lights and work lights or 17 LED lights as an option provide perfect illumination in any situation and make your job easier in poor light conditions.

• AutoScan enables operators to adapt the chop length relative to the current degree of maturity of the crop
• ConstantPower ensures minimum diesel consumption at maximum throughput
• XtraPower increases engine power on demand
• EasyLoad supports operators in filling the harvest fleet trailers to capacity
• RockProtect protects the forager from damage by stones

KRONE offers a range of different systems which help utilise our BiG X forage harvesters to their full potential and ease the strain on the operator. The electronic assist systems supply relevant data on the crop and provide reliable Information in extremely difficult position.

KRONE SmartControl allows orders to be received, started, stopped and sent via the X-Touch terminal or mobile terminals in conjunction with SmartConnect. This means that orders can be enriched with information such as customer and field names directly in the cab and evaluated by Smart Telematics. In addition, orders can also be pre-planned and field boundaries imported via farm management systems connected to the agrirouter

Another standard feature on the BiG X is the KRONE SmartConnect control box which provides GPS and Wi-Fi functionalities for the data management. All relevant data are recorded automatically and quickly sent from the harvester to the office PC – for straightforward and easy billing in less time.

The optional ­KRONE NIR Control dual system records data on the moisture and nutrient levels (see table) of the crops when harvesting maize, grass and whole crop silage. This data can be recorded in the machine terminal and assigned to the harvested area. The optional ­KRONE NIR Control dual system provides accurate measurements on crop moisture and nutrient levels. Another advantage: dual use of NIR sensor to determine nutrient levels in the VanControl dual system from Zunhammer.

As an option it is possible to adjust the counterblade automatically and from the cab. Based on a knock sensor that measures the gap between the counterblade and the blades of the chopping drum and a rotary encoder that triggers two motors that adjust the counterblade, the system reduces operator stress as he or she can concentrate on the work at hand. At the same time, it is also possible to adjust the counterblade manually from the external control unit.

The optional KRONE CropControl yield metering system measures the volume of crop harvested quickly and accurately at the touch of a button. With CropControl you can seamlessly document yield information on all fields harvested.

• ISOBUS steering system for auto guidance
• „CropControl for accurate yield metering
• „AgriNIR online sensors measure moisture and nutrients on the move
• „AutoCalibrate calibrates the BIG X yield metering system in the field
• „Optional automatic counterblade adjustment from the cabin
• „KRONE SmartConnect is a standard feature for convenient data management

The ISOBUS steering system guides the machine automatically along the preset way line without any operator interference. There are further systems available from KRONE that help operators measure, log and communicate the harvested crop weight per field and also measure moisture and nutrient levels.

The six pre-compression rollers are powerful yet gentle. The optional RockProtect system provides intelligent protection from damage by stones. It fully automatically halts the pre-compression rollers within milliseconds after a stone is detected. The sensitivity of the RockProtect system is adjustable for added protection.

The EasyLoad auto loading system in combination with a camera-based 3D image analysis system allows operators to fill any type of trailer that is running alongside the harvester. The system controls the "open/close spout" and the "rotate left/right functions" and allows operators to select one of several filling strategies. Monitoring all functions from the in-cab screen, operators are more at ease.

The innovative XtraPower technology allows owners of a BiG X 480 / 580 to book more engine power power (about 50 hp) from the new KRONE E-Solutions shops. Once this extra power is booked, it can be retrieved whenever it is necessary to boost throughputs temporarily. The machine must be in field mode and the chopping drum revolving to enable the feature. The XtraPower function is paused when no extra power is needed.

ConstantPower automatically adjusts the machine‘s ground speed to the engine loading. Select the desired engine loading at the touch of a button and the machine will adapt its ground speed fully automatically to the crop and material being harvested. This standard feature reduces operator stress and ensures maximum throughputs with minimum fuel consumption. In combination with AutoScan, this system takes the overall quality of chop and machine performance to a whole new level.

The photo-optical sensor in the middle of the maize header records the degree of maturity of the maize plant and ensures that the chop length is adapted automatically. For better structure and less silage effluent in the silo, the chopping length for green maize is longer. For dry maize, however, a shorter chopping length is used for better compaction in the silo. AutoScan eases the strain on the operator and saves fuel because the plants are cut only as short as necessary, no longer as short as possible. In KRONE machines, AutoScan is the standard, not an expensive extra equipment.