Soybean harvest 2018-2019 – to be forgotten or to learn from it?
Dr. Paulo C. Sentelhas, agronomist and effective member of the Brazilian Soy Strategic Committee (CESB)
With a completely new project, modern and well-planned design, Valtra launches the A4s and A4 series of tractors, with three-cylinder engines and synchronized transmission with two reverser options.
The A4s and A4 series have taken Valtra's low power 105hp tractors to a new level of technology and comfort. Successors of the old Series A Generation 2, with the traditional models A750, A850 and A950, the new Series A4s has three models: A74s with 79 hp, A84s with 89 hp and the A94s with 99 hp. Furthermore, the launch of the A4 Series complemented the brand's mid-power portfolio. The new series launched last year has the A94 and A104 models, with 99hp and 105hp, respectively.
The completely new project has platform and cabin versions. Modern, well-planned design, which is in line with Finnish standards, can be seen in the new lines. However, the strengths and novelties are not just in the look. The new engine stands out, now with three-cylinder AGCO Power electronic engines, designed to meet the MAR-1 standard, the new synchronized transmission with two reverser options and excellent gear shifting.
With the new phase of the MAR-1 standard, starting at the beginning of the year, where emissions control applies to engines below 100 hp, the A4s and A4 series have electronic engines designed to meet the standard. The three-cylinder AGCO Power engines guarantee outputs from 79hp to 105hp and feature a turbo intercooler and the iEGR gas recirculation system. The option for electronic management of the system, a novelty in the category, provides first-hand equipment with cutting-edge technology to small and medium producers, similar to machines seen in Europe.
A series of benefits accompany the new AGCO Power engines, such as: optimization of fuel injection; optimization of injection pressure, even at low speeds; safe mode and error codes telling you where the problem is. All these features make it possible to work at lower speeds, making the engine more economical and with faster responses, increasing efficiency and operational performance.
The electronic three-cylinder engines represent the evolution of Valtra. It is a more compact engine, which offers greater torque and maximum power at a lower speed than other models, enabling greater durability. The smaller number of components is also a very important factor. By reducing the number of items in relative displacement, it is possible to reduce losses and increase the efficiency of the set. Furthermore, maintenance - changing oil and filters - is reduced due to the smaller volume of lubricating oil used. Another highlight of these engines is the power curve with a linear trend, when compared to that of mechanical engines, allowing them to work in a wide range of rotations.
The new series feature a modern and intuitive transmission. Fully synchronized, the new transmission offers 12 forward and 12 reverse gears, divided into two groups of six speeds each. For producers who require extremely low speeds, the machines can also be equipped with a creeper, offering a machine with 24 gears for each direction. Mechanical and electro-hydraulic reverser are available for all models.
A transmission differential, when equipped with an electro-hydraulic reverser (PowerShuttle), is the Hi-Shift button. Located on the gear lever handle, it allows changes to be made without pressing the clutch pedal, simply pressing the button and selecting the desired gear. Benefit perceived by the operator from the first contact, reducing fatigue and directly increasing operational comfort.
The A4s and A4 series have open center hydraulic systems (gear pumps), but with different flow rates. The smaller series has a pump with a flow rate of 27L/min for the steering systems and internal services, and another pump with a flow rate of 65L/min available for the remote control valves. The A4 Series also has a 27L/min pump for internal services, but can also have one (57L/min) or two (98L/min) pumps to drive implements in the VCRs. When the machines are equipped with a flow rate of 98L/min, you can work with only one pump in operation, providing 41L/min, or with the simultaneous activation of the pumps, just by pressing the flow sum button, providing 98L/min. The lines offer two or three remote control valves, depending on the version sold.
The evolution also reached the three-point rise. The A4s and A4 models have a lifting capacity at three points of 3.000kgf and 4.300kgf, respectively, serving all types of implements intended for this power range. A new addition to the tractors is the electronic adjustment of depth and maximum height, soil copying and descent speed, providing greater precision and quality in operations.
The two series have two speed options: 540rpm and 540/540Erpm, depending on the model version. Equipped with a six-spline shaft, the drive is carried out electro-hydraulically from the operating station, through an independent clutch.
Valtra tractors have always stood out for their high level of finishing and details at the operating station. In the A4s and A4 series it is no different. The platform tractor offers practicality and convenience, with a flat and spacious platform, with steps that allow easy access and controls ergonomically arranged around the operator. The cab versions were designed to offer comfort and protection to the operator, through a large cabin with excellent visibility. As with the platform version, the controls were all distributed within the operator's reach, without the need for major movements. In both versions, the PTO, front-wheel drive and differential lock activation buttons are all electro-hydraulic. The A4s tractors with electro-hydraulic reversion and all A4 Series models have the rotation memory button. When pressing the button, the engine automatically reaches a speed memorized by the operator, offering savings in time, productivity and precision in operation.
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