Passed the endurance test for over 1,000 hours: Massey Ferguson relies on high-performance ventilation grilles from Graepel

With its innovative DuraVent technology, the sheet metal parts specialist Graepel has a strong foothold in the field of agricultural machinery. Massey Ferguson tractors also benefit from the innovative grille solution, which sets the standard in terms of reliability and productivity.

The top-of-the-range MF-8S model features premium technology that meets the highest requirements. The tractor series has been optimized in close cooperation with experts. The focus of the development was, among other things, on the drive: a powerful 6-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 7.4 liters and a peak output of 305 hp. In order to achieve efficiency and low emission values, the air intake grille was already addressed – a component that has a significant influence on the performance of the engine.

Perforation plus surface

"The aim is to achieve maximum air permeability with minimum openings," explains Jan Fehlinger, Head of Sales at Graepel. This is an apparent contradiction, because the engine needs large quantities of fresh air to comply with emission standards and reduce consumption – at the same time, the component must offer protection against stone chips, insects and crops. Weight saving also plays a role, as does stability and design. Graepel brings experience from the sports car sector here – where similar requirements apply.

With DuraVent, the company developed a grille that enables 7 percent more air permeability compared to conventional solutions on the market, reduces pressure loss by 13 percent and withstands over 1,000 hours in the salt spray test – as independent tests by TU Dresden show. The long service life also convinced Massey Ferguson. In-house tests confirmed the results. This makes the MF-8S one of the most powerful tractors on the market in terms of corrosion resistance. Particularly remarkable: While other manufacturers only achieve similar values with solid sheet metal, DuraVent achieves this performance with perforated sheet.

TU Dresden confirms performance values

The basis of the technology is a special punching and painting process developed by Graepel. A separate plant was set up for surface treatment. The components are manufactured in a production volume of several thousand units per year. Due to their hexagonal structure with a free cross-section of over 70 percent, the engine grilles are considered outstanding both technically and visually.

With over 130 years of experience, Graepel is one of the most traditional suppliers in the industry. The company specializes in sheet metal components and manufactures them individually in 6 plants with around 1000 employees. All relevant work steps – including tool and prototype construction – are carried out in-house. This guarantees a high level of development security and adherence to deadlines.