ZF: Modular transaxle kit

ZF is the only independent specialist for agricultural machine drivelines offering all technologies from synchromesh to continuously variable in the field of tractor transaxles. With its new modular transaxle kits ZF is supporting vehicle manufacturers in the development of tractors with operating concepts suitable for the market – independently of the desired transmission technology.

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The new modular transaxle kit from ZF is based on a uniform system rear axle, TRA (TERRAREAR Axle), for each model series. In this way all mechanical interfaces, such as for example, the rear cab suspension, the wheel flange of the rear axle, the PTO incl. actuator, the installation spaces for hydraulic valves and tow-bar devices, the linkage points of the three-point suspension and the mechanical interface to the transmission, are implemented identically in the powershift and CVT variants of the transaxle. The new product portfolio of the ZF transaxles from the modular transaxle kit is illustrated in Fig. 1.

Both transmission variants are produced in self-supporting designs with the same installed length and mechanical interfaces to the engine. The installation space of the transmissions is largely standardised, which in turn simplifies the design of the same installation parts, such as for example, front-loader mounting, front cabin suspension and tank mounting. The front axle drive is integrated into the transmission at the identical position to avoid variants of the prop-shaft to the steering axle.

With the ZF powershift transmissions in the new TERRAPOWER generation all existing mechanical interfaces with the cabin are optionally substituted by electrical ones. This means that the vehicle manufacturer now has the possibility of implementing the controls for both transmission variants ergonomically in the same way for the market. Consequently, the standardisation between the powershift and continuously variable transmissions from ZF makes a decisive contribution to the reduction of variant costs in the development of new vehicle models.

With regard to the efficiency of the driveline, in particular in transport operation, the increased user and vehicle-manufacturer requirements are taken into account with regard to the gear spread, torque transfer and noise generated in both transmission versions, in particular with relation to the forthcoming "Tier 4 Final" emission stage.

ZF High Line: Powershift transaxles of the new generation TERRAPOWER (TPT)
Through the combination of automatic shifting under full load and the indestructibility of a synchromesh transmission, the powershift transmission is best equipped for all operational situations. The user profits from low operating costs achieved by excellent efficiency.

In the future transaxles with 6-way powershift will be available in the series TPT 16 to 20 and TPT 25 / 32 and the transferred engine power will be between 140 and 320 hp. In the smaller series TPT 11 and TPT 14 the well-proven 4-way powershift continues to be offered.

The customer can choose between the favourably priced standard version with manually actuated powershift or the completely automatic powershift with optional electro-hydraulic automatic range shift (IRS). Furthermore the integration of the automated transmission functions into a driveline management system via CAN bus and a fully diagnostics-compatible electronic control are also possible. The Power Shuttle as well as a wide range of additional options make the TERRAPOWER series a versatile, adaptable powertrain for the medium and upper performance categories.

ZF Premium Line: Continuously variable transaxles TERRAMATIC (TMT)
For the economical working of large areas continuously variable technology is unbeatable. The ZF TERRAMATIC marks the launch of the next generation of continuously variable tractor transmissions. In the optimised TERRAMATIC series all the advantages of the present ECCOM and S-Matic transmissions are brought together in a new design. Not only that, the efficiency has been improved and maintenance simplified. The products are characterised by a high power density and the best possible exploitation of the engine power for maximum productivity and minimum consumption.

The continuously variable transmission ratio facilitates moving off and stopping on a slope without using the clutch or brakes. The transmission diagnosis and self-monitoring, diverse selectable driving methods (e.g. automatic mode, PTO mode) as well as the active standstill without brake operation are implemented by the electronic control and offer the best ease of use.