CLAAS TRAC Magazine - Summer 2021

2021

SUMMER

Incorporating

The new CLAAS TRION PAGE 8

First toy pedal forager

PAGE 2

A day out with Marketing

PAGE 4

Le Mans, factory of the future

PAGE PAGE1212

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Summer 2021

Dear Santa…

“Dear Santa Claus, I would like a pedal harvester.”

Two years ago a young boy from North Friesland in the Netherlands wrote a very special letter to Santa requesting a pedal harvester for Christmas.

However, there was one problem, a miniature pedal forager such as he had requested did not exist. To make her little boy’s Christmas wish come true his mother, Julia Nissen decided to put out a request on social media to see if anyone could help.

CLAAS replied to her request and created “Team Pedal Harvester”.

CLAAS asked anyone between the ages of 3 and 10 to help with the design, by taking part in a drawing competition to decide how the pedal forager should be made. They received more than 140 entries from budding mini engineers.

CLAAS builds miniature prototype A team of five including Guido Höner (top agrar editor-in-chief and children’s book author), Charlotte Stenzel (Marketing CLAAS Collection), Lars Kaumanns (Product Manager Merchandising), Volker Buhlmann (Product Marketing self-propelled foragers) as well as the little boy’s mum Julia Nissen, then took a look at all the design proposals. Some of the ideas included a tow rope, cup holder, rotating lights and foldable maize attachment! The mechanic trainees at the CLAAS Technical Training Centre then started to turn the little boy’s dream into a reality.

Apprentices Matthias Schulte, Lutz Blüthner and Felix Suer (from left) present the prototype.

Following a number of technical challenges, the finished prototype was shown in April 2021. CLAAS now just need to find a partner from the toy industry to turn this prototype into an actual toy that can be bought in shops.

Lets hope there’s one in your local toy store this Christmas!

A drawing competition for 3-10 year olds to help us decide how the pedal forager should be made. claas.co.uk

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Summer 2021

Dreams really do come true!

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Summer 2021

The Marketing team in action

A day out with the Marketing team Lynn and Emily from our Marketing department take you behind the scenes of one of our CLAAS tractor testimonial days to show you just what happens when we go out to visit our testimonial customers. It’s a great opportunity to get to know our customers better, learn about their businesses and their experiences with their CLAAS machinery. We also take along a professional photographer, a videographer and a journalist to help bring the customer stories to life for you to read and watch.

Back in April we visited two CLAAS tractor customers and their families in the harbour town of Fishguard in Wales, a contractor and a dairy farmer with a milk vending machine.

Annie our photographer had a bag full of amazing cameras with big and small lenses to take both close-up and far away shots.

There is much more to her photography than just angles, equipment, lighting and Photoshop. She plans her photoshoots very carefully and waits patiently for just the right moment to capture her perfect pictures – ones that often speak a thousand words.

Steve the videographer then filmed throughout the working day as it unfolded, recording all the jobs that the CLAAS tractor has to do around the farm. He used cameras and a drone to film the machines in action. He then set up sound, lighting and video equipment to record the customer interview with our journalist. Steve will later work his magic editing all the footage, adding music to turn the material into a story. Once we are happy with the final video we will use it on all our social media platforms.

Nick the journalist then asked the customers to talk about their daily life on the farm and how the CLAAS tractors help with all the tasks they need to get done. He asked why the customer chose a CLAAS tractor and what features they particularly liked on it. Nick’s final report is then used on our dealer websites, we post snippets on social media and will publish the full articles in our HarvesTimes magazine. This all helps us show other customers the benefits of using CLAAS tractors.

It was an action packed day, we got to meet some lovely customers and their families and the material we created will be very useful to us in our future Marketing campaigns.

Why not head over to our Facebook page and see if you can spot some of the pictures from our testimonial day.

The final results

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Summer 2021

1971-2021 50 years of the DOMINATOR It’s a milestone year 2021 marks a milestone in the history of the CLAAS DOMINATOR – not only are we celebrating the 50th anniversary of the market launch of this combine range, but cementing its position as the combine that has been on sale longer than any other harvesting machine in the world.

The DOMINATOR combine range became the most successful combine of its time, matching efficiency, performance and output with reliability and all round ease of maintenance.

A brief history In 1971, a new key player appeared on the combine scene from CLAAS, the DOMINATOR 80. This was quickly followed by the DOMINATOR 100, which set a new industry standard for combine performance. These 2 models were recognised as a major step forward in advanced harvesting technology.

Over the following decades the DOMINATOR series established itself as the bestselling harvester in Europe.

It was still a driving force for sales well into the 1990s with the introduction of the 3D cleaning system, boosting its popularity even further.

Its name also carried outside of Europe into Africa for example where its simple straightforward design and ease of maintenance made it a true winner.

Today DOMINATOR production finally ceased at the CLAAS factory in Harsewinkel this year 2021, its anniversary year.

However, CLAAS continue to produce a DOMINATOR 40 TERRA TRAC in India, and at the CLAAS plant in China the DOMINATOR 370 is manufactured today for both the local market and export, so its legend lives on.

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Jan-Henrik-Mohr, the CLAAS executive board member states that “It’s important to us to maintain the name ‘DOMINATOR’ in our production range as the embodiment of reliable, easy-tooperate combine harvester technology", “And of course, the genes of the DOMINATOR also live on in our stateof-the-art TRION and LEXION combine harvesters."

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Summer 2021

1921-2021 100 years of CLAAS Knotters

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The first knotter invented by August Claas 100 years ago, and the knotter today.

What is a knotter?

A knotter is needed to secure string tightly round a bale.

The knotters themselves are found inside the balers and use a needle and hook to loop string around the bale and pull it tight.

This works perfectly if the twine is all of the same strength. If its thickness varies, the string can rip and the bale will fall apart.

August Claas developed a unique knotting hook that allowed the baler to use string of different thicknesses and quality without it breaking.

This was a very important advancement in knotter technology and in 1921 the CLAAS knotter was patented, it was the very first patent for CLAAS. 100 years later the knotter still remains a major component in every CLAAS square baler.

CLAAS balers and knotters have been built in Metz in France since 1960. Over 7,000 knotters are produced for the square balers every year.

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Georg Szyszka conducting a check of a knotter in 1962.

So how does the knotter work?

Even though the way the knotter works is simple, the operation of the baler itself is quite complex: 1. The material, such as straw, is picked up, then cut and baled before being sent to the knotter.

3. At the end of the knotter, the ends of the pieces of string are picked up and knotted.

2. Once a certain bale length has been reached, up to six curved needles wrap the string around the bale and lead them through to the knotter.

4. Once the strings have been knotted tightly together, the bale can be laid back on the field.

What is a patent?

Are you an inventor?

A patent gives an inventor the right to stop other people making or using their invention.

Send your idea on a DM (direct message) on our Facebook or Instagram pages.

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Summer 2021

Flexibility with performance.

At CLAAS we always try to put our customers first. We are always striving to provide machines that are the most efficient, the most reliable and the best suited for our customers needs.

This year we have introduced a totally new range of combines, TRION. Purposely built with our customers in mind and drawing on our years of experience as combine market leaders, TRION provides a new level of customer satisfaction, with a range of machines that are as individual as you are.

There are 20 models in the new range, and include both HYBRID and STRAW WALKERS, from the largest 750 HYBRID to the 520 five walker machine. Many models

can be specified with TERRA TRAC or have a MONTANA option for hillside combining.

TRION is designed to fit our customers farms, whether they have multiple crop types or varying field conditions, the TRION can be tailored to the exact requirements of our farmers.

TRION will run alongside our renowned LEXION combines and will set a new benchmark in tailored harvesting, designed specifically to fit your farm.

You may see one of our pre-series TRION out working this harvest. Send us in a photo if you do.

Send us a photo if you see a TRION

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Summer 2021

The new CLAAS TRION Fits your farm.

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Summer 2021

The CLAAS is always greener when you’re on a picnic!

Make your own tasty treats to pack in your basket...

RICE KRISPIE HAY BALES A FAMILY FAVOURITE, MAKES 24 SQUARES METHOD 1. Melt the butter in a large, heavy-based saucepan over a low heat.

2. Add the marshmallows and cook gently until they are completely melted and blended, stirring constantly.

INGREDIENTS • 45 grams butter • 300 grams mini marshmallows • 180 grams rice krispies

3. Take the pan off the heat and immediately add the cereal, mixing lightly until well coated.

4. Press the mixture into a greased 32cm x 23cm tin / 13 x 9 inch pan; press down firmly with the back of a spoon, taking care as the mixture will be very hot!

5.Let the marshmallow crispy squares cool completely in the tin and then cut them into 24 square hay bales.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

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Summer 2021

TRACTOR ‘PIN’WHEELS DELICIOUS PINWHEEL BAKES PACKED WITH NOT ONE, NOT TWO, BUT THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CHEESE! METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan 180°C, gas 6.

2. Unroll the pastry sheet onto a baking sheet lined with non-stick baking paper and spread evenly with the tomato sauce, leaving a 1cm border.

3. Scatter with the ham, cheeses, sundried tomatoes and basil.

4. Taking one of the short ends, roll up the pastry as tightly as possible. Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes or until firm to touch.

5. Cut the roll into 12 equal slices and place on 2 baking sheets, well spaced apart. Brush the tops with beaten egg and scatter over the parmesan.

6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until puffed up and golden. Leave to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • •

1 x 325g sheet all-butter puff pastry 150g fresh tomato and basil pasta sauce 3 slices wafer thin ham, torn 1 x 250g ball mozzarella, drained and torn into bite size pieces 50g mature Cheddar, grated 2 sundried tomatoes, chopped fresh basil leaves 1 egg, beaten 15g parmesan, finely grated

HOMEMADE LEMONADE

INGREDIENTS

A REFRESHING SUMMER DRINK MADE FROM 3 SIMPLE INGREDIENTS!

• 2 cups water • 1 cup sugar • 1 cup lemon juice (from 4 lemons)

METHOD 1. Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to the boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.

2. Roll the lemons on the counter with the palms of your hands, pressing down hard with one hand on top of the other.

3. Halve and juice the lemons. Remove the sugar syrup from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Set aside to cool completely. You can store the lemonade syrup in a covered container in the fridge for up to one week.

4. To make lemonade, place 1/4 cup of lemonade syrup in a glass, add ice cubes, if you like, and fill with water.

What did you pack in your picnic hamper?

We’d love to see a photo of your delicious creations. Why not send us a picture to trac.uk@claas.com

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Take a photo of your final creations

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Summer 2021

FACTORY OF THE FUTURE How is a CLAAS tractor made?

FUN FACTS Tractors have been produced at Le Mans for more than

80 years

75% of the tractors are exported around the world

1,000 employees

The assembly line is

1.2 km long

70,000m 2 covered production area

We produce models from

We produce 50 tractors a day, at Le Mans in France, on a main assembly line divided into different stations and stages.

1. Powertrain assembly This station is where a group of parts are put together to deliver power to the wheels that moves the tractor. Parts include the engine, transmission, drive shaft and axles.

2. Paintwork When the powertrain is complete, it heads to the paint shop where it is cleaned, dried and painted this is done by robots and our skilled paint shop crews.

3. Cab assembly The tractor cabins are assembled on a separate production line to the powertrain, where features like the seat, controls, lights, radio and steering wheel are fitted.

4. Joining of the cab and powertrain The finished cab is fitted to the powertrain at the perfect time so our workers only need to guide it into position.

5. Fluid Filling Station The tractor is then filled up with fluids such as oils and fuel whilst the AGV is still moving.

Once this is done, we can start the tractor for the first time.

75-445 hp

6. Wheel Station

10,000

7. Test benches

on the same assembly line

tractors manufactured each year

€80 million invested in the factory since 2003

The wheels are then fitted to the tractor using robotic arms.

The tractor is then driven for the first time off the production line to our new test benches.

Everything on the tractor is tested to make sure it all works such as the brakes, lights and even the radio.

8. Final product inspection The tractor is driven into an area for final checks before it leaves the factory.

The tractors are then loaded onto lorries, trains and boats to be delivered to our customers all around the world.

AGV Inside the factory, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) move at certain speeds and parts are assembled as the tractors move along on the assembly line. Parts are then fitted according to customer needs, and since each customer's order is unique, there are tractors of different sizes that need different parts.

Each of the 40 AGVs can carry up to

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Summer 2021

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Summer 2021

Are you a budding dog photographer?

As well as meeting lots of lovely customers we get to meet lots of lovely pets.

Maybe you can capture them whilst they’re playing, sitting quietly, in black and white or with special effects.

We want to see your four legged friends, show us your snapping skills by taking the best photo of your dog.

Here are some of our favourite photos from Annie our photographer:

Family time

Me and my dog

What a poser

Eyes on the prize

Treat time

We can’t wait to see your amazing entries.

To Enter

The Prizes

Send in your photos to trac.uk@claas.com make sure you tell us your age.

Not only will the winning and runner up photos be posted in our next issue of TRAC, but they will also feature on our social media.

Our competition is split into two categories: Under 10s and 10 years and older.

The competition closes 1st October 2021 and the winner will be contacted on 8th October 2021.

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A prize fo every ent r ry!

The winner (under 10) will receive a ride on tractor and our (over 10) winner will receive a remote control tractor.

There will also be a prize for every entry!

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Summer 2021

ANSWERS on back page

LOGIC Find the correct letter for each clue to spell a six letter word. (i.e. the first letter is in PIG but not GORILLA = P)

1. The first letter is in

(3)

but not

2. The second letter is in

(3)

3. The third letter is in

(4)

4. The fourth letter is in

6. The sixth letter is in

(3)

(4)

but not

but not

94 44 47

(5)

but not

but not

13 52 57

(5)

but not

(4)

5. The fifth letter is in

(6)

42 18 62

(4)

(6)

Find Susie’s Secret Number by crossing out the numbers that it’s not!

1. It’s not less than 23+10.

2. It’s not 14+30.

3. It’s not greater than 75-20.

4. It’s not 12+40.

5. It’s not 20+22.

(7)

Write your answers below to spell the name of a type of CLAAS machine:

Susie’s Secret Number is: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .....

_ _ _ _ _ _

How many words of 4 letters or more can you make from the tractor wheel? The middle letter MUST be used each time.

Colour me in

T S

E H

A

RR

1.

..................................

2.

..................................

3.

..................................

4.

..................................

5.

..................................

6.

..................................

7.

..................................

8.

..................................

9.

..................................

10.

...............................

E V claas.co.uk

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Summer 2021

Welcome to

Harvest Time Facts Hello Summer

1.

2.

By early summer the cereal crops will have grown their “ears”. They’re not like your ears - a wheat ear is the part that contains the grain and each ear will contain around 50 grains.

ereal harvest in the UK C usually takes place between July-September when you’re most likely enjoying yourself on your school summer holidays.

Barley

Wheat

3.

Oats

Did you know, harvest happens at different times of the year around the world?

5.

4.

The main cereal crops that farmers grow in the UK are wheat, barley and oats.

Every day in the UK we consume 12 million loaves of bread and we need 350 ears to make one loaf of bread.

6. t harvest time combine A harvesters are used to cut the crops and collect the grain from the field.

7. t the front of the combine you will see A the header with very sharp blades called teeth, they act like scissors and cut the crop from the bottom it is then fed into the machine by the reel.

When the grain tank is full a tractor with a trailer drives next to the combine and the grain is carried up from the tank and out the long pipe (unloading auger) at the side into the trailer.

10.

9.

Farmers hurry to harvest the crops when they’re ripe and before the rain comes and often work late into the night.

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8.

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he grain is dried and stored in a T grain store first or loaded straight onto a lorry and some of it ends up at flour mills to be made into flour, for onward sale to factories for making into lots of different foods like bread, cakes, pastry and biscuits.

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Summer 2021

CLAAS KIDS! 1 ENTURES O V D A F

“Hi I’m Trina the new CLAAS TRION combine and I’ve just arrived at my new home. I’m so excited to start combining.”

ALY ARION

the

ALY ARION

2

It’s a new day and the sun is shining.

3

“But the rain is pouring down so I must wait one more day before I can get to work.”

Farmer Green said it’s finally time to go harvesting!

“Aly the ARION has taken my cutterbar down to the field so we’re all ready to go.”

4

5 “Farmer Green is so pleased with how the harvest is going and is very happy with my work. He’s made the right choice with me.” claas.co.uk

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Summer 2021

J KE COMPETITION

What’s a po tatoes least favouri te day of the week ?

Fry-day!

Always fancied yourself as a comedian?

We want to hear your BEST jokes!

Who can make our Chief Customer Officer, Jeremy Wiggins, laugh the most?

Enter for the chance to win your very own Lego Technic Mini CLAAS XERION. Send your entries to: CLAAS Kids Club, CLAAS UK LTD, SAXHAM, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 6QZ Or email your entries to trac.uk@claas.com Or send us a DM (direct message) on our Facebook or Instagram pages.

The competition closes 1st October 2021 and the winners will be contacted by the 8th October 2021.

1. The first letter is in JAM but not FARMER 2. The second letter is in HAY but not HONEY 3. The third letter is in EGGS but not HORSE 4. The fourth letter is in BULL but not LAMB 5. The fifth letter is in CAT but not BUCKET 6. The sixth letter is in CORN but not COMBINE

Answer: JAGUAR

LOGIC

42 18 62 94 44 47 13 52 57

Answer: 47 1. 23+10 = 33 2. 14+30 = 44 3. 75-20 = 55 4. 12+40 = 52 5. 20+22 = 42

HARE REST EASTER STEER TEAR SERVE THERE Word examples from HARVESTER

SUSIE’S SECRET

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 20 claas.co.uk

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