VB 3100 Series Variable Chamber Round Balers

A VB 3195 round baler with no background

Fast. Simple. Reliable.

A simple, yet extremely reliable range of variable round balers designed to produce high-quality 4x5 & 4x6 round bales.

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KUHN variable chamber round balers take high-density baling to the next level. Whether you’re a farmer producing a couple hundred bales each season or you’re a custom operator producing thousands of bales, there’s a KUHN VB round baler for you. The VB 3100 Series offers a complete range of variable chamber round balers to suit any size operation, any budget and any type of crop. If you’re looking to bale mostly dry materials such as hay and straw, the VB 3155 and 3185 balers are the right round balers for the job. These models will provide you with the capability and performance you expect, without any extras to weigh you down. The VB 3160 and 3190 Premium round balers work well handling anything from heavy silage to dry cornstalks, with the added convenience of full ISOBUS control. The KUHN VB 3165 and 3195 Premium XD round balers are designed to work in the toughest conditions throughout the world and are ideal for custom operators who need extra density in straw. Built for high-volume hay production, these models feature the most heavy-duty components to keep you producing rock-hard bale after bale, day after day.
A VB 3195 following another VB 3195 in the field baling straw

Your benefits

Intake Options to Meet Your Operation’s Needs

KUHN VB round baler pickup with pendulum wheels

Optimal Crop Pickup

All VB 3100 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 inches, the machine is capable of working in all windrows and will not let you down, even in the toughest conditions. Straight pickup tines help release the crop and reduce crop wrapping. The pickup roller compresses the crop against the pickup tines reducing friction, thus reducing leaf loss and increasing baler efficiency by evening out the windrow.
The 91” rotor model pickup features standard pendulum frame and optional pivoting pickup wheels to allow the pickup to adapt to changing field conditions. Camless-shaped crop guides, on 91” pickups, 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

The direct feeding system is an unrestricted intake unit for maximum capacity in all crop conditions. In heavier conditions, like big wide straw or silage windrows, the top roller is acting like 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.
Photo of the Direct Feeding System on a KUHN baler

Integral Rotor Technology

Available across the entire VB 3100 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 reduces crop damage. The Integral Rotor on all models, except VB 3155 & 3185 units, are provided with rotor tines made out of Hardox® wear plates. 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.
VB_Integral_Rotor.png

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.
OptiFeed non-cutting rotor.

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.
VB-Cutting-Rotors.png

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.
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 3100 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 guarantees perfect bale formation every time.
a picture of three bale chambers to compare the differences between the 3100 series balers

KUHN Net & Twine Solutions

VB 3165 in the field ejecting a completed bale, with a net wrapped bale in the foreground

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

Equipment

An overhead shot looking down on a VB 3195 baling straw, surrounded by many bales

Specifications

BALE DIMENSIONS
 
Bale diameter
Bale size - width x diameter
Bale width
VB 3155 DIRECT VB 3155 OPTIFEED VB 3155 OPTICUT VB 3160 DIRECT VB 3160 OPTIFEED VB 3160 OPTICUT VB 3165 OPTIFEED VB 3165 OPTICUT
31.5" - 63" (80-160 cm) 31.5" - 63" (80-160 cm) 31.5" - 63" (80-160 cm) 31.5" - 63" (80 - 160 cm) 31.5" - 63" (80 - 160 cm) 31.5" - 63" (80 - 160 cm) 31.5" - 63" (80 - 160 cm) 31.5" - 63" (80 - 160 cm)
4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m) 4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m) 4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m) 4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m) 4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m) 4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m) 4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m) 4' X 5' (1.2 m X 1.5 m)
47 " (120 cm) 47 " (120 cm) 47 " (120 cm) 47" (120 cm) 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 3155 DIRECT VB 3155 OPTIFEED VB 3155 OPTICUT VB 3160 DIRECT VB 3160 OPTIFEED VB 3160 OPTICUT VB 3165 OPTIFEED VB 3165 OPTICUT
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 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 endless belts 1 starter roller – 2 bale chamber rollers – 5 endless 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 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
870-2,900 psi (60-200 bar) manual 870-2,900 psi (60-200 bar) manual 870-2,900 psi (60-200 bar) manual 870-2,900 psi (60 - 200 bar) manual 870-2,900 psi (60 - 200 bar) manual 870-2,900 psi (60 - 200 bar) manual 870-2,900 psi (60-200 bar) manual 870-2,900 psi (60-200 bar) manual
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 1 starter roller - 2 bale chamber rollers- 5 belts 1 starter roller - 2 bale chamber rollers- 5 belts Driven clean roller in front segment including second belt drive Driven clean roller in front segment including second belt drive
Standard Standard Standard Standard 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 Electric pressure settings in cab as standard Electric pressure settings in cab as standard Electric pressure setting in cab as standard Electric pressure setting in cab as standard
Standard laced belts Standard laced belts Standard laced belts Standard laced belts Standard endless belts Standard endless belts Endless belts with secondary drive roller Endless belts with secondary drive roller
- - Optional Optional Optional Optional Standard Standard
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 3155 DIRECT VB 3155 OPTIFEED VB 3155 OPTICUT VB 3160 DIRECT VB 3160 OPTIFEED VB 3160 OPTICUT VB 3165 OPTIFEED VB 3165 OPTICUT
Optional Optional Optional Standard Standard Standard Standard (BEKA-MAX continuous chain oiler with 8 liter reservoir) Standard (BEKA-MAX continuous chain oiler with 8 liter reservoir)
Direct Feed Integral rotor and contouring pickup Standard 14-knife OptiCut with integral rotor and passive dropfloor Direct Feed Integral rotor with Hardox rotor tines and contouring pickup Standard 14-knife OptiCut with integral rotor and drop floor system Integral rotor with Hardox rotor tines and contouring pickup 14 or 23-knife OptiCut with integral rotor and drop floor system
- - 14 - - 14 - 14 or 23
- - Manual - Optional In cab control In cab control In cab control
GROUP SELECTION OC 14: 0/4/7/7/14
GROUP SELECTION OC 23: 0/7/11/12/23
- - 2 3/4" (7 cm) - - 2 3/4" (7 cm) - OC 14: 2.9" (74 cm)
OC 23: 1.8" (45 cm)
- - Spring - - Spring - individual spring protected
83" (210 cm) 91" (230 cm) 91" (230 cm) 83" (210 cm) 91" (230 cm) 91" (230 cm) 91" (230 cm) 91" (230 cm)
4 4 5 4 5 5 5 5
Standard fixed wheel Standard fixed wheel Standard fixed wheel Standard fixed wheels Standard fixed wheels Standard fixed wheels Choice of fixed wheel or pivoting wheels Choice of fixed wheel or pivoting wheels
Standard crop roller Standard crop roller Standard crop roller Standard crop roller Standard crop roller Standard crop roller Standard with large diameter roller Standard with large diameter roller
MACHINE CHARACTERISTICS
 
Bale kicker
Bale packaging system
PTO power requirement
PTO type
PTO speed
Overload protection
Drawbar hitch
Tires
Transport width
ISOBUS ready
Electronic monitor
Road lights and signaling
Required tractor hydraulic connections
VB 3155 DIRECT VB 3155 OPTIFEED VB 3155 OPTICUT VB 3160 DIRECT VB 3160 OPTIFEED VB 3160 OPTICUT VB 3165 OPTIFEED VB 3165 OPTICUT
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Net wrap system Net wrap system Net wrap system Net wrap Net wrap Net wrap Net wrap system Net wrap system
65 hp (47 kW) 75 hp (55 kW) 85 hp (62 kW) 65 hp (47 kW) 75 hp (55 kW) 85 hp (62 kW) 75 hp (55 kW) OC 14: 85 hp (62 kW)
OC 23: 105 hp (77 kW)
Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch Standard CV PTO (1 3/8" - 6 spline) with cam clutch 1 3/8" - 6 spline CV PTO 1 3/8" - 6 spline CV PTO 1 3/8" - 6 spline CV PTO 1 3/8" - 6 spline CV PTO with cam clutch 1 3/8" - 6 spline CV PTO with cam clutch
Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm Standard 540 - optional 1,000 rpm
Cam clutch Cam clutch Cam clutch Cam clutch Cam clutch Cam clutch Cam clutch Cam clutch
Adjustable height clevis Adjustable height clevis Adjustable height clevis Adjustable height clevis Adjustable height clevis Adjustable height clevis Adjustable height clevis Adjustable height clevis
380/55-17 380/55-17 380/55-17 480/45-17 480/45-17 480/45-17 500/45-22.5 as standard 500/45-22.5 as standard
8'1" (2.5 m) 8'1" (2.5 m) 8'1" (2.5 m) 8'1" (2.5 m) 8'1" (2.5 m) 8'1" (2.5 m) 8'7" (270 cm) 8'7" (270 cm)
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
VT 30 monitor with left/right indicator VT 30 monitor with left/right indicator VT 30 monitor with left/right indicator
Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
1 SA and 1 DA 1 SA and 1 DA 2 DA 1 SA and 1 DA 1 SA and 1 DA 2 DA 1 single and 1 double acting valve 2 double acting valves
MACHINE WEIGHT
 
Minimum machine weight
VB 3155 DIRECT VB 3155 OPTIFEED VB 3155 OPTICUT VB 3160 DIRECT VB 3160 OPTIFEED VB 3160 OPTICUT VB 3165 OPTIFEED VB 3165 OPTICUT
5,400 lbs (2,450 kg) 6,400 lbs (2,900 kg) 6,725 LBS (3,050 kg) 5,600 lbs (2,540 kg) 6,800 lbs (3,040 kg) 7,140 lbs (3,240 kg) 7,100 lbs (3,220 kg) 7,540 lbs (3,420 kg)

Media

VB 3185 baler working in the field, baling straw

Customer Spotlight: VB 3100

  • VB 3190 pulled by a tractor.
    Josh Collins Clinton, Wisconsin

    "The KUHN VB 3190 OptiCut round baler has unbelievable capacity. It has added so much versatility to my operation. It allows me to be able to bale at basically any moisture and run knives if I choose."

/about-kuhn/kuhn-world/testimonials

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