Latest Stoll loaders offering greater capacity, durability
German front-end loader specialists Stoll has recently introduced the new ProfiLine FZ and FS Series loaders, the first of which are just landing in New Zealand.
Stoll appears to have become the first frontend loader manufacturer to address the question of ISOBUS for front-end loaders, by designing a new valve configuration for the existing ProfiLine layout that integrates with the Aux N, Tech U and VT channels on an ISOBUS-equipped tractor.
In operation, the Aux N channel connects the loader to the tractor joystick, the Tech U circuit to the engine speed, which is monitored by the loader ECU to adjust oil flow accordingly, while the VT connection allows programming of the loader from the ISOBUS screen.
The configuration means the tractor no longer needs a separate mid-mounted loader valve, rather just power beyond, that features an output for pressure/ return and load sensing. The set up means there is no need to install a dedicated loader joystick, instead, making use of the tractor’s existing electro- hydraulic joystick.
The development locates of the valves and ECU in the cross tube of the loader - a layout protected by a patent - with position sensors on the headstock and main pivots to provide data for the lifting and lowering functions.
Available as an option on the ProfiLine FZ loader range, a company source says they expect interest to be in the 120- 180hp sector, where a livestock farmer can make use of the technology on a frequent basis, for jobs like loading diet feeders or fertiliser spreaders.
Installation sees the loader being added to the IsoBus implement menu on the terminal and initiating connection to the joystick. The operator can allocate sequences or functions to the tractor’s joystick buttons to suit their preferences. Once configured, the main loader screen displays user or tractor profiles, allowing operator preferences to be logged and tractors to be swapped.
One option is the possibility to set an “easy mode” for users who require straightforward loader functions such as third service, float and boom suspension. A “teach-in” function records a full movement sequence, which can be recalled with a single joystick movement, controlling the lift arm and implement according to preferred settings.
Other options include three levels of joystick sensitivity, end-position damping, adjustable response behaviour for gentle starting and tilt/ crowd action damping. A load independent lowering speed uses the return oil to adapt the weight of the implement and its load and keeps lowering stable, regardless of load.
Meanwhile, setting an upper limit for the loader is said to offer faster working when loading a trailer or prevent collisions in low buildings.
Stoll says that the design of its own bucket, with curved sides, resists sticking, but a “shake” function can be activated for sticky materials, using the deflection of the joystick to determine amplitude.
A drop-down menu offers a choice of 10 implements, with the ability to save settings for specific tools. In other functions, the clamping force of an implement such as a bale squeeze can be controlled individually by limiting the pressure; electric flow sharing allows the loader to be lifted and the implement to be used at the same time; while after calibration of an implement, weight of the load cab be shown on the terminal.
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