Dewulf launches the ZB3, 3-row self-propelled top lifting harvester

Dewulf, a specialist in machinery for potatoes and root crops, is expanding its range of carrot harvesters with the ZB3. With this machine, Dewulf introduces a new generation of 3-row self-propelled top lifting harvesters designed to meet the needs of growers working with an odd-numbered planting pattern and looking for higher capacity without compromising on cleaning performance or product quality. The machine combines exceptionally precise harvesting and topping results with maximum performance under a wide range of conditions.

What makes the ZB3 unique?*

• Precise topping results: The unique Floating Shares ensure accurate crop pickup. The three independent pickup belts, each with its own harvesting share, follow the ground perfectly, even on uneven terrain, ensuring unrivalled harvester stability.
• Premium Cutter Set: This cutter set combines a high operating speed with precise, product-friendly haulm removal. The cutters in the six-piece cutter set are made from extremely wear-resistant material. In addition, the cutter set is reversible, doubling its service life compared with conventional cutter sets.
• Bunker for unloading on the move: The seven-tonne bunker ensures smooth logistics when unloading on the move.
• Universal rear axle: The rear axle is designed to accommodate both triangular tracks (90 cm) and wheels.
• Sieving harvesting unit: For harvesting in the most challenging conditions, where the haulm is not sufficiently strong, an optional sieving harvesting unit is available in addition to the harvesting belt elements.

*Read on below for more information.

High capacity with precise topping results

Accurate carrot pickup is ensured by the Floating Share system and the low picking angle of the harvesting belts. This keeps both the harvesting depth and pickup height constant, resulting in a stable machine and uniform product flow. The 14-metre-long Super Grip profiled harvesting belts, large drive wheels and automatic belt tensioners also provide maximum grip and operational reliability in the most demanding harvesting conditions.

The ZB3 is equipped with a sensor system for belt failure detection. If a belt comes off, the tensioning cylinder is pushed to its end position, regardless of where on the element this occurs. An automatic signal is then generated, simultaneously alerting the operator and stopping the harvesting element.

The topping result remains consistent even on uneven fields. Thanks to the three independent Floating Shares, the harvesting shares follow the terrain individually, without small movements of the harvesting element affecting their position. This ensures maximum stability, even at high driving speeds.

Premium Cutter Set extends service life

The ZB3 is equipped with the innovative Premium Cutter Set, combining a high operating speed with precise, product-friendly haulm removal. The cutters are driven by a maintenance-free Gearbox Drive. In contrast to conventional chain drive systems with a tensioner, two heavy-duty sprockets ensure perfect synchronisation of the cutters. This keeps the carrot crowns undamaged and effectively extends the service life of the cutters.

The six-piece cutter set is made from extremely wear-resistant material. In addition, the cutter set is reversible, further extending its service life. Once the front section is worn, the set can simply be flipped over for a fresh cutting edge.

Seven-tonne bunker for unloading on the move

The harvester is equipped with a seven-tonne bunker for unloading on the move. Thanks to the fixed first section of the bunker, it does not need to be fully raised for unloading. This allows for simultaneous harvesting and unloading without interrupting the harvesting process.

With a maximum unloading height of 4100 mm and a minimum unloading height of 1480 mm, the ZB3 offers ultimate flexibility in the field. In addition, the unloading point is positioned far enough away from the machine to provide sufficient space between the harvester and the transfer trailer for smooth logistics.

Flexible use on tracks or wheels

The rear axle of the ZB3 was developed to accommodate both triangular tracks (90 cm) and wheels. The steering angle remains fixed at 12°, regardless of the configuration, and switching between tracks and wheels (or vice versa) is simple thanks to the use of spacers between the axle and machine frame.

Sieving harvesting unit for difficult conditions

For harvesting in challenging conditions, where the haulm is not sufficiently strong, the ZB3 offers an optional sieving harvesting unit. This consists of two sections, creating an additional drop for efficient cleaning. The suspension with two cylinders ensures the unit remains stable and precisely maintains the required harvesting depth. In addition, the sieving web consists of three belts, tensioned at three points to prevent slip and extend service life.

Maximum cleaning

Two or three rotating, hydraulically driven cleaners beneath the harvesting belts provide an initial cleaning of the product. Machines with cleaners can also be equipped with Rotary Cleaner Control. With this option, the angle of all rotary cleaners can be adjusted and saved for each element.

After the pickup unit, the product is conveyed over two sieving webs. The speed of both sieving webs is adjustable. Both sieving webs can optionally be equipped with an agitator.

The product is then conveyed to the first hedgehog belt, which is 1150 mm wide. After this hedgehog belt, the product is transferred laterally to a third sieving web, which can also optionally be equipped with an agitator. Finally, the product reaches the second hedgehog belt, which is 900 mm wide. This hedgehog belt can also optionally be equipped with an agitator.

350 hp engine

The ZB3 is powered by a Scania DC9 Stage V engine and delivers 350 hp. An intelligent control system ensures that fuel consumption is kept as low as possible at all times. In extreme weather conditions, the cooling capacity can be increased to meet all requirements.