e-chains® and Bearings for Grape Harvesters

Based on the UT110evo tracked vehicle, the German company CH engineering GmbH has developed a harvesting machine for grapes. With a width of 4.3" (1.32 meters), a length of 10.5" (3.2 meters) and a weight of 2.7 tons, it is light and compact enough to be transported on a tractor trailer. This means it can also be used in vineyards with narrow access roads. Upon arrival at its destination, a ramp on the side of the trailer folds out, allowing the vehicle to drive directly into the vine row. A cable winch connects the vehicle to the trailer, providing a pull force of 1.5 tons and enabling it to traverse gradients of up to 75%. In these extreme vineyard conditions, the driver can adjust the seat angle relative to the horizon to reduce physical strain.

One of the engineers' key objectives was to develop a vehicle that can withstand the harsh conditions of the vineyard over the long term while minimizing maintenance requirements for winegrowers.

The key to success: A carefully considered choice of components. The engineers opted for E4.1 series e-chains® to guide the hydraulic and electric cables from the vehicle to the harvesting head. The e-chains not only prevent the cables from kinking and jamming but eliminate the risk of them becoming entangled in the vines as well. "They also help increase the longevity of the machine," says Jörg Ottersbach, Head of the e-chains Business Unit at igus®. "Our energy chains are made of durable high-performance plastic that is corrosion-free and resistant to UV radiation and chemicals. This means they retain their mechanical specifications for years without the need for maintenance."

The engineers have also replaced classic metal rolling bearings. In the past, the ball bearings were so badly damaged by the grape must that — despite daily lubrication — they only lasted one season and then had to be replaced. This is why igubal® insert bearings are now also being used. They are corrosion-free, robust and do not require any additional lubrication, as solid lubricants integrated into the material allow for low-friction dry operation. The elimination of grease also removes the risk of contaminating the grapes.