Case IH AF11 combine harvester cleared for take-off in the US

Case IH introduces the AF11 with dual rotor technology for the first time to claim the leading stats for a Class 10+ combine

After nearly 50 years of single rotor technology Case IH introduces dual rotor technology with the AFXL2 longer rotor providing 50% more separation over previous models and greater crop condition adaptability with six concave modules and 12 separating modules

Growers in North America will be first in line to order a Case IH AF11 combine, while growers in Europe and Australia will not be given the option to place an order at this stage. And that’s a pity as this industry-leading powerhouse has been purposefully redesigned from the ground up to maximise time spent in the paddock.

Aimed at growers across the long plain country in the US who are being challenged to accomplish more within tighter windows, Case’s IH AF11 combine has been designed to get the most out of every engine hour.

The AF11 brings with it the most advanced runtime design to date using speed and technology to maximise in-paddock productivity. This 570kW (775hp) machine has coupled Case IH’s first-ever dual rotor, the AFXL2, with an active and dynamic cleaning system to deliver industry-leading capacity.

Case IH AF Series combines are fitted with a two-speed clean grain elevator with an all-belt drive system that can be operated at 292, 484-litres/hour or a lightening 352,390-litres/hour without sacrificing grain quality

“We recognise growers have an increasing amount of ground to cover while facing unpredictable harvest windows and labour shortages. With the AF11, Case IH addresses these variables head-on,” explains Leo Bose, harvesting segment leader.

“We see this machine as a way to drive capacity, bring state-of-the-art technology and bottom-line benefits for our customers, while also providing the reliability that customers have come to expect from Case IH.”

The AF11 builds upon Axial-Flow strength and heritage, providing matched capacity from header to spreader. The speed and throughput are delivered with consistent crop flow, reduced grain loss and radar-controlled residue management.

The AF11 cradles a 20,000-litre grain tank and offers a 211-litres/second unload rate, giving it leading stats for a Class 10+ combine. Plus, it also delivers improved fuel efficiency and a large 1500-litre fuel tank to keep runtime at a maximum.

The AF11 combine comes equipped with two AFS Pro 1200 displays mounted within easy reach of seven nameable run screens and this allows the operator to input Harvest Command settings and set up auto guidance while sharing real-time data with remote managers

“Our product development process, which is centred around farmers, identified the need for matched capacity, speed and throughput,” adds Leo Bose. “The AFXL2 dual rotor technology drives that capability to harvest more in less time.”

Drew Baker, a Canadian farmer, is looking to increase productivity and efficiency as harvesting windows narrow and input costs increase. Baker sees the AF11 as a way to revolutionise his farm amid those harvesting challenges.

“I would say the AF11 makes us look differently at our future options. If we can cut our grain losses, do more in a day, burn less fuel and lose less out of the back of the combine – that’s a real advantage,” adds Baker, who farms just outside of Winnipeg Manitoba. In Canada.

The cab design of the AF Series offers high visibility with unsurpassed sight lines and halogen stadium lighting that allows the operator to keep an eye on the entire head while being kept comfortable with the latest climate control, heated/cooled/massaging seats

The AF11 is the first release in the AF Series of combine harvesters and will offer a number of top-of-the-line technology-focused functions, including Case IH’s combine automation solution, Harvest Command. 

Case IH offers a suite of precision technology and connectivity products that not only simplify harvest operations but also solve ongoing issues, such as labour and operating windows by opening doors to less experienced operators. And through the introduction process helps an operation improve its ROI through shared analytics and diagnostics.

“The AF11 is offering technology-driven efficiencies to growers,” adds Leo Bose. “It’s about elevating control – even if the farmer isn’t in the operator seat. We’re providing technology that can optimise machine settings in real-time to navigate even the toughest conditions harvest can throw your way.”

The AF11 can be fitted with a residue management system to destroy any harvestable weed seeds regardless of crop type and yield and handle high volumes of crop material harvested for a uniform spread pattern even in windy conditionssee Redekop SCU story here

The AF11 will only be available to order in North America at this stage but more information about specifications and pricing will be shared as they come to light.

View the Case IH AF11 class 10+ combine harvester in action on this link.

Building on nearly 50 years of harvesting excellence with Axial-Flow rotor technology the AF11 introduces an AFXL2 dual rotor system that creates a much larger total threshing and separating area

Case IH AF11 specification

Engine power         570kW (775hp)
Class                        10+
Grain Tank              20,000-litre
Unload rate            211-litres/second