European debut for next-generation Case IH combines at EIMA: AF series takes Axial-Flow principle into new capacity class

Bigger feederhouse with more lift capacity for wider headers / Longest single rotor and largest grain tank capacity in the sector / Powerful engines producing up to 775hp / Double cleaning shoe with automatic cross-distribution maximizes grain quality /


St. Valentin, November 6, 2024

A new capacity class is being added to the Case IH Axial-Flow range for 2024, with the European launch of the new AF9 and AF10 combines. They share a ground-up new design providing significant capacity advances from front to rear, while maintaining the simple yet effective Axial-Flow principles of single-rotor threshing and separation.

The AF9 and AF10 launch completes the Case IH ‘Year of the Combine’ that began with the Axial-Flow 160 and 260 series release. Case IH now offers the industry’s largest line of single-rotor combines, staying true to a system it pioneered in 1977.

More power, wider headers, enhanced intake
The new models feature key components designed to minimize total cost of harvesting for the largest farming and contracting operations. The AF10 is powered by a 775hp FPT Cursor 16 engine, while the AF9 features an FPT Cursor 13 producing 635hp. Both units are mounted lengthways for simplicity of drive and efficiency of power transmission, with engine rpm when harvesting lowered from 2,100 to 1,900rpm, boosting fuel efficiency. Service intervals have been extended from 600hrs/one year to 750 hrs/two years, with additional operating cost benefits.

AF10 grain tank capacity is 20,000 litres – the joint largest in the industry for reduced unloading downtime – with a 210 l/sec unloading rate, while comparable figures for the AF9 are 16,000 litres and 159 l/sec. There are four unloading auger length options to match different header widths, while a pivoting spout aids even unloading, and cross-auger shutoff ensures the unloading auger is emptied if part-unloading the tank. A half-rate unloading shut-off feature on the AF10 enables easy topping-off of loads.

Up front, the AF9 can be fitted with draper headers up to 15.2m (50ft). To match the additional capacity of the AF10, units up to 18.6m (61ft) are possible. These wider widths not only allow operators to exploit the full capacity of these combines, but also mean every field is harvested in fewer passes, boosting productivity.

Beyond their power, cutting capacity and grain holding ability, multiple other advances ensure the new models make their mark at the very top of the combine sector. The feeder house, which has a lift capacity of up to 6,800kg to accommodate the wider headers, is also significantly wider to match the greater crop intake. Standard lateral tilt and front face adjustment aid precise contour-following and assist with header attachment. The feeder chains are powered by a fixed or optional PowerPlus CVT drive, while a patented Synchronized Feed System (SFS) 450mm lateral feeding rotor smooths crop transfer to the threshing element that leads the Axial-Flow rotor.

Completely new AFXL Axial-Flow rotor
The new 762mm-diameter AFXL rotor is the longest in the industry, at 3.67m, boosting crop flow, fuel efficiency and straw quality, while minimising grain damage and maximising separation. Total threshing and separation area is up to 5.1m2. The AFXL rotor features six modules rather than four, fitted with 40 standard raspbars, 12 spiked raspbars and eight HX raspbars. HX units work in a stepped area of the rotor cage and blend the spiked raspbars’ height with the standard units’ profile, with a steeper sidewall angle that speeds crop flow between the threshing and separation zones. Remote vane adjustment allows for instant response to changing conditions. Driven by PowerPlus CVT, in the event of a blockage the rotor can – simultaneously with the SFS – be easily reversed from the cab.

New Cross-Flow Cleaning Plus
The new Cross-Flow Cleaning Plus system has the capacity to match the crop volume that comes into these new combines at their full capability. At 8.76m2, the twinelement system offers a total cleaning area that is the largest in the industry, supported by a larger Cross-Flow fan. The new cleaning shoe features two automatic cross-distribution control mechanisms, one on the grainpan and one on the upper sieves, guaranteeing an even cleaning shoe load in all conditions and allowing sideslope compensation of up to 28%.

Chopper options include a MagnaCut integrated unit for corn/maize, beans and dry wheat straw, with spreading capability up to 13.5m/45ft. A MagnaChop option suits users working with higher straw volumes and seeking a finer chop. Spreading at up to 18m/61ft, it includes remote speed selection, remote chop/drop selection and remote engagement of counterknives, with radar-equipped hydraulically-powered spreaders.

More operator comfort and enhanced precision technology
The revised cab interior features a comprehensive suite of precision technologies, including dual Pro 1200 displays to simplify machine management and enable easy monitoring and operation of multiple functions through customisable displays, plus Harvest Command™ combine automation and RowGuide Pro™. In addition, the introduction of Connectivity Included* enables seamless transmission of yield and machine data directly to the new Case IH FieldOps™ app, offering farmers a complete data management solution for their operations.

There are also more in-cab control features for full from-the-seat operation of less commonly-used functions, including remote feeder and rotor reverse procedures, rotor gear selection, chopper speed selection, unloading speed choice and chopper knife engage/disengagement. Elsewhere, proven Case IH technology features include Harvest Command automation that continuously adjusts settings according to the operator’s desired focus on grain saving, grain quality or throughput. Comfort-wise, upgraded seating includes swivelling, air conditioning, heating and massage features.

*Connectivity Included will be active for the useful life of the PCM/PCMF modem. If the modem is no longer capable of receiving current cellular services, any modem hardware upgrades are not the responsibility of Case IH. Acceptance of End User License Agreement (EULA) is required.