Although only 20% of the latest Ropa RK22 has changed, those design mods allow even more adjustment options on the two-row potato harvester. The hydraulics and software architecture have benefited from big advances, too.

KEEPING IT BRIEF

  • The Keiler 2 and Keiler 2 Classic can be ordered as the RK22 for next season.
  • Various functions can now be set independently of other hydraulic functions.
  • This is the first time Ropa has developed its own software.
  • There are new cab controls and camera systems.
  • Keiler is German for wild boar.

The RK22 not only looks modern, but there has also been some serious freshening up of the electric and hydraulic systems — both for the Keiler 2 with four hedgehog webs and the Keiler 2 Classic with two separators.

As previously, the lifting unit is available in different versions, with or without diablo rollers and in various depth wheel and coulter disc configurations. The lifting unit has hydraulic depth wheels now; and potato and onion growers can order an all-round lifting unit for harvesting tubers from the swath or ridges without swapping lifting units. 

A new feature on the left side of the RK22 is an unsprung concave disc with a serrated edge (510mm in diameter) for clearing haulm. The hydraulic control block on the lifting unit has also changed to regulate the depth control and lifting unit pressure, more sensitively, for example. 

The driver can choose and operate the pushed lifting unit either using the ridge pressure relief or the control system.

The first elevator web can now be replaced with a duo of short webs, creating room to add a step to reduce the drop height. The driveshaft needed for this can be retrofitted later.  

As an alternative to the first web, it can be split in the middle to create an extra step.

Dehaulmer updates

Here, the top deflection point was moved to the rear to increase the separation area and position all the haulm stripping combs on the ramp. The stripping rods were given a new magazine. A rubber strip underneath the dehaulmer guides any potatoes that were late being stripped off their haulms to the first gang of separation rollers. 

The dehaulmer changes direction further to the rear — this has increased the separation area.

Speaking of which, four rollers are now available as an option on the first separator, three rollers on the second and two on the third separator. We would find a third roller useful here as well, though this would clearly add to the cost. 

A rubber curtain prevents the tubers from dropping behind the separation rollers. You can specify up to four rollers here.

The speeds of the rollers above the first hedgehog web can now be controlled separately for improved separation. At the same time, the hedgehog web gains more drive power, which is partly thanks to the new electronically controlled load-sensing system with a total of up to seven piston pumps.

The separation rollers above the third hedgehog web can now be adjusted using a crank that regulates the amount of clearance.

These on-board hydraulic pumps are driven by the tractor’s pto. Some of the harvester functions continue to use the tractor’s load-sensing system. The harvester’s electronic load-sensing pump can communicate with the tractor using the ISObus connection, and there’s no need for a hydraulic control line. Ropa claims improved response, pressure stability and more precise control.

Although the ISObus interface has changed, Ropa operators will quickly figure it out.

More hydraulic details

  • The axle steering is more agile and can even steer when the machine is stationary with a full bunker.
  • The unit’s self-levelling system is more responsive — even when turning a corner.
  • The residue web can reverse its direction — either at any time or when on the field headland.
  • The first sieve web can also be reversed.
  • The speed of both finger comb webs can be adjusted independently. 

From software to joystick

Like its beet harvesters, the Ropa potato harvester now boasts inhouse developed software, even though the user interface hasn’t changed. 

New camera system offers brilliant resolution and a zoom function for a better view.

A new camera system generates up to seven HD views. The 10.1-inch terminal allows you to select and zoom into specific sections, but there isn’t a slow-motion function. 

Also new in the cab are the controls that are identical on both sides of the seat, but they look after different functions. The toggle controls on the right can also be operated crosswise, but not the ones on the left. Their functions are predefined. 

The new controls; toggle and rotary switches along with backlit buttons are something we can happily get used to. All are user friendly.

A dial overrides the axle steering (right) or moves the crop bunker forward (left), for example. Operators now have to start the rolling floor in a controlled way each time. This and the many thumb-operated controls are something you quickly get used to. For example, there is an extra button on the back of the stick that lowers the bunker to free up the thumb for the axle/drawbar steering control. Speaking of which, you can no longer assign the steering function as an Aux-N function.

Using the dial adjusts the top and bottom picking table in parallel.

Other details

  • The parking stand has moved to the middle of the machine.
  • The third separator can be moved by operating a crank handle.
  • On the rear right, the large maintenance panel has a new lock.
  • Telemetry units for connection to myropa.com are now standard.
  • The Classic’s standard bunker holds 7.5 or 8.0 tonnes. The unloading bunker holds 7.0t.
  • Prices for Keiler 2 start at €256,950. The test machine was a tad more at €287,885.
  • CTM Harpley Engineering is the importer for the UK.
New power steering rams make for smoother turns, even with a full bunker on board.

Summary

Boasting a new electronically controlled load-sensing system, more piston pumps, new hydraulic valves and bespoke software, the Keiler trots out into a new era. You soon get used to the controls in the cab. Details on the bunker and dehaulmer have changed too. Experienced Keiler operators are sure to tease even more performance out of this impressive machine.

Sönke Schulz

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