Next level baling - KUHN VB 3200 Series Round Balers

Take baling to the next level

Variable chamber round balers designed to produce high-quality, dense 4x5 & 4x6 round bales.

Benefits
Specifications
Media

KUHN variable chamber round balers take baling to the next level. The VB 3200 series offers a wide range of models and configuration options to match operator preferences and crop conditions.

VB 3255-3585: Your reliable partner for all baling operations
The VB 3255-3285 round balers stand out in reliability, versatility and ease of use. Their proven performances in a wide variety of crops combined with a simple, yet sophisticated design, make these balers a strong partner for a variety of baling operations.

VB 3260-3290: Built for versatility, optimum performance and profitability
The VB 3260 and VB 3290 are built for optimum performance and profitability in all circumstances. They combine capacity and density with outstanding reliability, ensuring the best possible return on investment for your operation. Balers you can rely on all season long, creating perfect bales of straw or silage and everything in between.

Two VB 3195 balers baling straw in the field.

Intake Options to Meet Your Operation’s Needs

KUHN VB round baler pickup with pendulum wheels

Optimal Crop Pickup

All VB 3200 models feature a wide pickup with standard crop roller. The pickup is designed to maximize the full capacity of the machine. With a working width of 83” or 91”, the machine can work in all windrows and conditions. Straight pickup tines help release the crop and reduce crop wrapping. The pickup roller compresses the crop against the pickup tines, to even out the windrow. This reduces friction, thus decreasing leaf loss and increasing baler efficiency. The 91” rotor pickup of the VB 3260-3290 features standard pendulum frame and pivoting pickup wheels, allowing the pickup to adapt to changing field conditions. Camless-shaped crop guides result in more aggressive and efficient pickup by exposing more of the tine when needed and by pulling the crop away from the tines as it approaches the intake. A cam track pulls the tines straight down in the rearward position to avoid wrapping, making this the only hybrid pickup on the market today. To better meet your operation's specific needs, there are four intake options available. Choose the direct feed intake system or select one of our three patented Integral Rotors – the non-cutting OptiFeed rotor or the 14- and 23-knife OptiCut cutting rotors. Availability dependent on VB model – See Specifications

Direct Feeding System

When crop cutting is not required, the Direct Feed system allows for unrestricted intake for maximum capacity in all crop conditions. In heavier conditions, like heavy, dry hay and cornstalks, the top roller acts as a pre compactor, which is powered by the primary driveline of the baler. There are no stuffer fingers which can disturb the flow and therefore limit the intake capacity. This generates a huge input potential and prevents plugging of the unit resulting in a high output and minimum downtime.

Integral Rotor Technology

Available across the entire VB 3200 range is our patented Integral Rotor technology found on OptiFeed and OptiCut models. This simple, low-maintenance intake system guarantees an enormous throughput capacity at all times. The short distance between rotor and pickup tines maintains consistent crop flow. The design of this force-fed intake makes higher forward speeds possible for increased productivity and reduced crop damage. The Integral Rotor on all models are provided with rotor tines made out of Hardox® wear plates (except VB 3255-3285). Hardox combines extreme hardness and toughness to reduce rotor tine wear. Longer wearing life of the rotor tines will help to provide time and money savings for the operator.

Illustration of hay going into the integral rotor of the round baler

Non-Cutting, OptiFeed Rotor

The OptiFeed rotor, with single feeding tines and integrated augers, provides a consistent flow of crop into the bale chamber. This rotor design helps even out incoming windrows for consistent bales every time.

Cutting, OptiCut Rotors

The OptiCut (OC) cutting rotors are designed for unlimited intake capacity and excellent cutting quality. KUHN (OC) cutting rotors, with elliptical shaped rotor tines, are acknowledged by users as one of the best cutting systems on the market. The silage is guided and drawn down to the knives from an early stage which improves flow and cutting performance and also prevents unwanted plugging.

OptiCut 14
The Integral Rotor, with the 14-knife OptiCut system, is designed to even out the windrow and force-feed the crop into the baler for maximum throughput. The 14-knife OptiCut cutting system provides a theoretical cutting length of 2 ¾". Each single knife is spring protected against damage from foreign objects. With group selection (VB 3165 & 3195 models) the operator can choose to have 0, 4, 7, 7, or 14 knives in operation.

OptiCut 23
The Integral Rotor with the 23-knife OptiCut system from KUHN has the benefits of intensive cutting and mechanical protection. The 23-knife OptiCut system provides a theoretical cutting length of 1 ¾". Each single knife is spring protected against damage from foreign objects. With group selection the operator can choose to have 0, 7, 11, 12, or 23 knives in operation.

Consistent, Firm Round Bales

The process of Progressive Density from beginning to end of bale production

Progressive Density – The KUHN Solution

The Progressive Density system has proven its value on all KUHN VB balers. The system increases tension as the bale grows providing a firm bale with a tough outer shell. For even more density, Progressive Density Plus is available as an option on VB 3260-3290 models. Progressive Density Plus delivers up to 10% greater densities in dry crops such as hay, straw and cornstalks.

How Does It Work?
As the bale grows within the bale chamber, the belt tensioning arm is subjected to steadily increasing resistance from two hydraulic cylinders and a spring tensioner. So as the diameter increases, the bale’s density does too. The result is a very firm bale with a moderate core – not too soft, not too hard. With a tougher outer layer, straw bales will be more tolerant to bad weather conditions, while silage bales will maintain their shape for improved stacking and easier handling.

Fast, Perfect Bale Formation

The 5 belt, 3 roller design of the VB 3200 Series bale chamber ensures fast, consistent bale formation whatever the intake system. The aggressive profile of the top chamber roller improves crop contact and reduces crop loss. The front segment of the baler is fitted with a large smooth roller and driven cleaning roller that prevents crop build up at the front of the machine. The unique mix of the KUHN Progressive Density system and smart bale chamber design creates perfect bale formation every time.

The VB 3260-3290 features heavy-duty bearings and reinforced high-loaded rollers, in addition to an optional secondary drive.

An illustration showing how the twine system works within the baler.

Chain Lubrication System

The VB 3260-3290 models feature a Beka Max continuous chain oiling system. Wide and sturdy brushes apply oil on the chains to ensure perfect lubrication. Individual adjustments can be made to the amount of oil applied on each chain. The Beka Max system decrease maintenance time while increasing longevity of the machine, while operators will have the peace of mind their equipment is running at peak performance.

The VB 3255-3285 models feature an automatic chain lubrication system, which lubricates chains with each cycle of the tailgate.

KUHN Net & Twine Solutions

A VB 3165 Round baler ejecting a bale in the distance

KUHN Net & Twine Solutions

One of the final steps in creating the perfect bale is the wrap. Securing a bale to protect it from the elements and from losing its shape is one of the most crucial steps. The less time required to secure the bale, the higher the baling operation output. KUHN net & twine solutions guarantee reliable and secure wrapping.

Net Wrap System

The net wrap with active stretch technology ensures a firm bale shape with constant net tension throughout the entire wrapping cycle. The net is fed into the front of the bale chamber to ensure it is taken by the bale immediately. A second net roll storage enables the operator to carry a sufficient net supply for a longer working day. Changing of the net roll can be done easily while standing safely on the ground.
KUHN’s innovative design maintains constant net tension during the wrap process. The net wrap system runs at 90% of the bale’s rotational speed to be able to stretch the net without breaking it. After leaving the bale chamber, the bale will not expand and therefore it will hold its density. The net wrap system spreads the net to the corners of the bale to prevent air pockets once the bale is wrapped, which will preserve the forage quality for longer.

A roll of net wrap stored inside the baler

Twine System

When using the double twine arm system, the tying cycle time is reduced to a minimum. In the twine tying cycle, both of the twines start at the bale edge and overlap before moving to the center of the bale. In the center of the bale they overlap again, this ensures the twines are fixed and that there are no loose ends.
When required, the VB can be equipped with a combination of twine and net binding.

Specifications

BALE DIMENSIONS


Bale diameter
Bale size - width x diameter
Bale width

VB 3255 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3260 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)	VB 3285 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3290 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)
31.5"-63" (80-160 cm)	31.5"-63" (80-160 cm)	31.5"-73" (80-185 cm)	31.5"-73" (80-185 cm)
4'x5' (1.2m x 1.6m)	4'x5' (1.2m x 1.6m)	4'x6' (1.2m x 1.8m)	4'x6' (1.2m x 1.8m)
47" (120 cm)	47" (120 cm)	47" (120 cm)	47" (120 cm)

BALE CHAMBER


Bale chamber
Bale chamber idler rollers
Bale pressure
Bale chamber configuration
Teardrop bar for bale chamber
Proportional valve soft core
Belts
Secondary belt drive

VB 3255 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3260 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)	VB 3285 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3290 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)
1 Starter Roller - 2 Bale Chamber Rollers - 5 Belts	1 Starter Roller - 2 Bale Chamber Rollers - 5 Belts	1 Starter Roller - 2 Bale Chamber Rollers - 5 Belts	1 Starter Roller - 2 Bale Chamber Rollers - 5 Belts
Standard with Heavy Duty Bearings and Seals	Standard with Heavy Duty Bearings and Seals	Standard with Heavy Duty Bearings and Seals	Standard with Heavy Duty Bearings and Seals
Progressive density - 870-2900 psi (60-200 Bar)	Progressive density - 870-2900 psi (60-200 Bar) Progressive Density PLUS - (Optional) 870-3400 psi (60-235 Bar)	Progressive density - 870-2900 psi (60-200 Bar)	Progressive density - 870-2900 psi (60-200 Bar) Progressive Density PLUS - (Optional) 870-3400 psi (60-235 Bar)
Profiled Roller with Scraper in front segment	Driven clean roller in front segment	Profiled Roller with Scraper in front segment	Driven clean roller in front segment
Standard	Standard	Standard	Standard
Electric Pressure Settings in Cab as Standard	Electric Pressure Settings in Cab as Standard	Electric Pressure Settings in Cab as Standard	Electric Pressure Settings in Cab as Standard
Laced (Rough Profile) / Laced / Laced	Standard Endless Belts	Laced (Rough Profile) / Laced / Laced	Standard Endless Belts
	Optional		Optional

INTAKE


Chain lubrication system
Intake system
Number of knives
Drop floor
Minimum cutting length
Knife protection system
Pickup width
Number of pickup tine bars
Pickup gauge wheels
Pickup windguard

VB 3255 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3260 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)	VB 3285 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3290 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)
Standard (Masterlube automatic chain oiler)	Standard (Beka-Max continuous chain oiler)	Standard (Masterlube automatic chain oiler)	Standard (Beka-Max continuous chain oiler)
Dual Power Feed Rollers / Integral Rotor and contouring pickup / Integral Rotor, contouring pickup, and drop floor	Integral Rotor with Hardox rotor tines and contouring pickup / Integral Rotor with Hardox rotor tines, contouring pickup, and drop floor / Integral Rotor with Hardox rotor tines, contouring pickup, and drop floor	Dual Power Feed Rollers / Integral Rotor and contouring pickup / Integral Rotor, contouring pickup, and drop floor	Integral Rotor with Hardox rotor tines and contouring pickup / Integral Rotor with Hardox rotor tines, contouring pickup, and drop floor / Integral Rotor with Hardox rotor tines, contouring pickup, and drop floor
N/A / N/A / 14	N/A / 14 / 23	N/A / N/A / 14	N/A / 14 / 23
N/A / Optional / Standard	Standard	N/A / Optional / Standard	Standard
N/A / N/A / 2.75 in (70 mm)	N/A / 2.75" (70 mm) / 1.77" (45 mm)	N/A / N/A / 2.75 in (70 mm)	N/A / 2.75" (70 mm) / 1.77" (45 mm)
N/A / N/A / Individual Spring Protected	N/A / Individual Spring Protected / Individual Spring Protected	N/A / N/A / Individual Spring Protected	N/A / Individual Spring Protected / Individual Spring Protected
82.67" (210 cm) / 90.55" (230 cm) / 90.55" (230 cm)	90.55" (230 cm)	82.67" (210 cm) / 90.55" (230 cm) / 90.55" (230 cm)	90.55" (230 cm)
4	5	4	5
Standard Fixed Tool-less	Standard Fixed Tool-less	Standard Fixed Tool-less	Standard Fixed Tool-less
Standard crop roller	Standard crop roller	Standard crop roller	Standard crop roller

MACHINE CHARACTERISTICS


Bale kicker
Bale packaging system
PTO power requirement
PTO type
PTO speed
Overload protection
Drawbar hitch
Tires
ISOBUS ready
Electronic monitor
Road lights and signaling
Required tractor hydraulic connections

VB 3255 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3260 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)	VB 3285 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3290 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)
Standard	Standard	Standard	Standard
Net wrap system	Net wrap system	Net wrap system	Net wrap system
64 hp (47 kw) / 75 hp (55 kw) / 84 hp (62 kw)	75 hp (55 kw) / 84 hp (62 kw) / 105 hp (77 kw)	64 hp (47 kw) / 75 hp (55 kw) / 84 hp (62 kw)	75 hp (55 kw) / 84 hp (62 kw) / 105 hp (77 kw)
Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with shear bolt / Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch, wide angle machine side / Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch, wide angle machine side	Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch, wide angle machine side	Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with shear bolt / Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch, wide angle machine side / Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch, wide angle machine side	Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch, wide angle machine side
Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm	Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm	Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm	Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm
Shear bolt / Cam clutch / Cam clutch	Cam clutch	Shear bolt / Cam clutch / Cam clutch	Cam clutch
Adjustable height clevis	Adjustable height clevis	Adjustable height clevis	Adjustable height clevis
380/55-17	480/45-17	380/55-17	480/45-17
N/A	Standard	N/A	Standard
VT 30 Monitor with Left/Right indicator	Standard No Terminal	VT 30 Monitor with Left/Right indicator	Standard No Terminal
Standard	Standard	Standard	Standard
1 SA and 1 DA / 1 SA and 1 DA / 2 DA	1 SA and 1 DA / 2 DA / 2 DA	1 SA and 1 DA / 1 SA and 1 DA / 2 DA	1 SA and 1 DA / 2 DA / 2 DA

MACHINE WEIGHT


Minimum machine weight

VB 3255 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3260 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)	VB 3285 (DIRECT FEED/OPTIFEED/OPTICUT)	VB 3290 (OPTIFEED/OPTICUT 14/OPTICUT 23)
5,400 lbs (2,450 kg) / 6,400 lbs (2,900 kg) / 6,725 lbs (3,050 kg)	6,800 lbs (3,040 kg) / 7,140 lbs (3,240 kg) / 7,540 lbs (3,420 kg)	5,510 lbs (2,500 kg) / 6,500 lbs (2,950 kg) / 6,835 lbs (3,100 kg)	6,810 lbs (3,090 kg) / 7,250 lbs (3,290 kg) / 7,650 lbs (3,470 kg)