In 1997 Vicon added the RF 130 to its baler line-up. Similar in size and baling system to the RF 120 OC model it replaces, this new RF nonetheless incorporates some interesting changes and developments
When developing the RF 130 fixed-chamber baler, Vicon focused on keeping power requirements low and making operation as straightforward as possible.
One of the major changes is to the new transmission system. The main gearbox now splits into two drives: One powers the rotor cutting system; the other the bale chamber rollers. Roller drive splits again – to the front half of the bale chamber and then to the tailgate – hence eliminating the need for throughdrive rollers. This is designed to improve load distribution and reduce power input.
In our practical test, the baler was attached to a 120hp Fendt-GT. This had no problem operating the baler in heavy first-cut silage, even on steep land. Owners of the first machines in use last season suggest a more modest 90hp is sufficient, but in practice we recommend 110hp to 120hp to make the most of the baler’s potential performance. The RF 130 bale chamber is slightly larger than that of the old RF 120. It is now 1.25m wide by 1.22m in diameter versus the old 1.20m by 1.20m respectively. Bale volume is also increased on the RF 130 to about 1.50m3. This is up by 0.14m3, or 10%, over that of the RF 120. In silage we produced bales of 1.35m in diameter.
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