A series of tests is carried out to ensure that the indicators and headlights function correctly and that the windscreen wiper works. The steering system and onboard electronics are checked. After the software has been downloaded, the various electronic functions on the tractor are tested. The axles are adjusted and checked. The new tractor must pass more than 100 tests before it is allowed to leave the factory.
During assembly, the tractor goes through seven quality control checks, including the transmission, hydraulic and electrical systems. Only once the tractor passes all the tests is it released for the next assembly phase. If an error or defect is detected, the tractor is taken to the rework section to be repaired and checked once again by specially trained staff.
The next work step is one of the most important: Fitting the wheels. It is precision assembly, with laser guided electric forklifts transporting the wheels straight to the tractor, which is jacked up 12 cm. Later the wheels are secured by huge wheel nuts.
Now the tractor can move for the first time under its own power. A roller test rig is used to show what it can do for the first time and whether all the work on the vehicle has been carried out properly. The tractor gets the green light after the engine and brakes functions are tested. It is now complete and ready for the final assembly.
Workstations and processes to ensure safety and quality
All workstations and processes are cutting edge, with customer focus part and parcel of the overall production and assembly with a special focus on quality which Fendt is world famous for. Fendt benchmarks its production with the latest generation processing centres and hi-tech CNC machines, including laser-cutting machines. With the most up-to-date paint shop system globally for tractor body painting, Fendt sets new milestones in the agricultural technology industry.
In Asbach-Bäumenheim, production begins with raw material delivered to the factory in the form of tubes, profiles and metal sheets. The single-piece production system is based on state-of-the-art technology and hi-tech systems such as flatbed or five-axis lasers for exceptional quality and unique design.
The CAB and bonnet components are worked precisely in the first step, with complex contours cut out of raw material plates using a 2D laser-cutting system. The distinctive and unique form of the Fendt tractors, defined mainly by the cab and hood, is achieved with 3D cutting in ultra-modern laser centres. The technology in both these 2D and 3D cutting systems guarantees meticulous component processing.
State-of-the-art welding technologies and processes are used such as innovative welding robots. With these modern methods, Fendt can produce unique cabs such as the VisioPlus with its curved front window for the new 700 Vario series.
The wheel assembly is a technical highlight. The wheels are delivered in the sequence of production, pre-sorted on special supports. Laser-navigated electric forklifts pick up the wheels and drive them automatically to where they are needed. Here the tractor body is raised by up to 600 mm for ergonomic, semi-automated wheel assembly.
What does this mean for the South African farmer?
Fendt leading the way in terms of technology and quality adds tremendous value to South African farmers due to the extremely economic fuel consumption and world-leading technology. Further value is added by Fendt enabling precision planting, spreading and spraying, all coupled with a driving and operating experience unmatched by any competitor. This all starts where the tractors are designed and manufactured. This is why Fendt is investing so much money, time and skill development to ensure that when a customer buys a Fendt it meets their expected standard in terms of quality and assurance.