Our single-seed drills, 100% KUHN design and manufacture

KUHN-HUARD, based in Châteaubriant in the Loire-Atlantique region of France, has been recognised for its expertise in the design, manufacture, assembly and marketing of precision seed drills for many years. The company offers a wide range of single-seed drills, such as the MAXIMA and KOSMA models, distinguished by their versatility, robustness and reliability.

Designing a precision seed drill

The engineering department plays a central role in the design of precision seed drills. It is responsible for analysing farmers' needs and defining the technical characteristics of the machines. Design engineers use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create detailed 3D models of precision seed drills. They also run simulations to test the strength of materials and the efficiency of mechanisms. 

The manufacture of a pneumatic seeder

The manufacture of a precision seeder requires essential technical skills and know-how. 

Our complex components are produced with remarkable precision. This attention to detail and technical experience enable KUHN Châteaubriant to produce precision seed drills that meet the most stringent agricultural requirements.

The cutting workshop

Our plant is equipped with a “STOPA” sheet metal store and two 5000 Watt laser cutting machines. The warehouse, with a capacity of 834 tons, feeds both machines. Parts are cut using oxygen on sheets measuring 150 x 300cm, with thicknesses ranging from 6 to 15mm. The machines are controlled by an operator who also handles part unloading. In addition, we have a KASTO carbide saw for sawing billets to feed the forges' two screw presses. The automatic cutting center is equipped with two BEHRINGER band saws and a VERNET saw.

The forge workshop

Since 2023, KUHN Châteaubriant has invested in a new 5300-ton stamping press. The stamping press shapes parts by heating them to 1250 °C. Heat treatment then improves the mechanical characteristics of the parts, making them more resistant to wear and fatigue. Once this stage is complete, the parts pass through the shot-blasting and painting lines for finishing.

The mechanical welding workshop

This workshop enables all kinds of machining (drilling, reaming, milling, tapping, etc.) to be carried out without handling the parts between operation. Workpieces are positioned in 1 or 2 passes to avoid any misplacement. The jigs are installed close to the machining centers to save time during changeover, thus enhancing productivity. 

Setting up a precision seed drill 

The assembly of precision seed drills is a very seasonal activity, from September to April depending on the year.

It comprises several lines and stations

1. A sowing unit line with 5 pre-assembly stations
2. A main line with 6 satellite stations to feed the main line
3. A hydraulic preparation station
4. A dressing and inspection station at the end of the line
5. An automated cell for seeding discs

The automated seeding disc cell is equipped with advanced technologies to optimise production. It includes two robots: a polyarticulated robot for disc handling and a SCARA robot for precise positioning of the blades. A vibrating bowl is used to feed the blades to the cell's various machines, which include a marker, machining center, welder, leveler and deburring machine. Three cameras are installed to ensure production quality at every stage.

The production process follows a series of well-defined steps: marking, machining, deburring, planishing, welding, deburring, washing, and finally operator packaging. Each stage is carefully controlled to ensure that the final product meets the highest quality standards.

At the end of the chain, operators carry out corn seed tests on each sowing unit. The same applies to sub-assemblies (fans, housings), which are tested electronically and mechanically.

Packing stations

There is also a dedicated line for packing machines. An operator is responsible for crating the assembled machines, ensuring they are protected and ready for shipment. This section also includes five pre-assembly stations, where machine components are partially assembled before being packed. These stations ensure that each machine is properly prepared and checked before being dispatched to customers.

Marketing / sales department

KUHN is present in over 110 countries.

Thanks to its commitment to quality and innovation, KUHN Châteaubriant continues to play an essential role in the agricultural sector, offering reliable and efficient solutions to farmers all over the world. Present on five continents, KUHN develops; alongside its standard machines; specialised machines to meet farmers' requirements, both in France and internationally. KUHN designs machines for all types of monograin crops, even specific ones such as peanuts, spinach, pumpkins...