In yet another innovation for the small square bale commercial hay producer, AGCO Corporation recently announced the release of the Hesston by Massey Ferguson SB.1436DB baler. The baler produces two rows of bales per field pass, doubling the capacity of a typical single-line baler producing 14-by-18-inch bales. It will be debuted this week at World Ag Expo in Tulare, Calif., and later this month at the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Ky.
“The SB.1436DB is built to meet the needs of modern hay producers who face increasing pressure from labor shortages, tight harvest windows, and demanding quality standards,” said Dane Mosel, marketing manager for Hesston by Massey Ferguson. “We’ve been working on the double baler project since early 2021, and we’re now pleased to be able to bring it to the market.”
The new baler features a 105-inch pickup width and operates at 90 strokes per minute with a 21.9-inch stroke length. It is designed to run off of a 1,000 RPM power takeoff (PTO) and will require at least a 120 PTO horsepower (HP) tractor with a minimum weight of 11,000 pounds.
One plunger, two bales
The SB.1436DB works by conveying hay into a single, 14-by-36-inch chamber. The compressed hay is then split by a knife to create two individual 14-by-18-inch bales. From there, it passes through a common density system that ensures consistent compression. Independent knotter trips on either side of the baling chamber allow for precise bale lengths, even in variable windrow conditions. Completed bales are dropped through the bale chute into independent rows.
The key to the SB.1436DB is the knotter trip, as it improves bale length consistency regardless of windrow variability by independently tying each bale to a preset length between 24 and 52 inches, allowing for a more standard product despite windrow or operator inconsistency. The new baler is able to hold up to 20 balls of twine, which allows for up to 8,000 bales before refilling.
The SB.1436DB features an advanced electronic monitoring and control system called SimplEbale, which automates critical baling processes. SimplEbale ensures consistent bale density, weight, and dimensions. From the cab, operators can monitor flake thickness, flake count, bale length, and bale weight in real time. It has the option to plug in any aftermarket moisture sensing kit and includes an automated knotter lubrication system, reducing the need for frequent manual maintenance and ensuring consistent performance.
Mosel said that the company currently has several show and demonstration units and they are finalizing full production plans for the year. For more information on the SB.1436DB small square baler, visit www.masseyferguson.com.
