Compact Disc Harrow Marks 25 Years of Innovation
The compact disc harrow that helped reshape modern shallow soil cultivation reaches its 25‑year milestone in 2026, marking a significant period of development, expansion and technical progress. The machine’s origins began shortly after Amazone acquired BBG Bodenbearbeitungsgeräte Leipzig in 1998, which enabled development of the first Catros model introduced in 2001.
Designed as a compact, three‑point‑mounted implement equipped with two rows of aggressively angled, individually suspended concave discs, the original Catros set new standards in ease of use, high‑speed stubble cultivation and low‑maintenance performance. These qualities helped establish the series as one of Amazone’s most successful soil‑tillage products.
Two Decades of Continuous Development
Since its launch, the Catros range has been steadily expanded to meet evolving agricultural requirements. In 2003, the line was broadened with new working widths and the introduction of hydraulic working‑depth adjustment. The shift to oil‑immersed, maintenance‑free disc bearings in 2004 reduced service time and costs while enhancing long‑term performance. Amazone also introduced its first catch crop seeder box, later developed into the GreenDrill system.
From 2005 onward, trailed versions with integrated running gear allowed larger working widths and use with smaller tractors, while 2007 brought a wider choice of rear rollers to address field‑specific requirements.
A major step came in 2011 with the launch of the Catros+, which introduced 510 mm discs for more intensive mixing. Further enhancements included the TS bogey chassis, bolt‑on bearing shafts, the pro‑Pack option for slurry applications, and later a central lubrication system. In 2016, Amazone unveiled the 12‑metre Catros+ 12003‑2TS featuring ContourFrame technology.
The CatrosXL followed in 2020 with 610 mm discs, expanding the machine’s capability for deep and intensive cultivation.
Advances Focused on Sustainability and Efficiency
Recent innovations have centred on more sustainable soil management. The X‑Cutter disc enables ultra‑shallow cultivation that protects soil structure and conserves moisture. Tools such as the knife roller intensively shred crop residues to accelerate decomposition. A front‑mounted Crushboard improves levelling and seedbed preparation when combined with a rear roller and harrow.
The Smart Frame System allows hydraulic depth adjustment from the cab, independent of leading tools. Maintenance‑free disc bearings and HD roller bearings filled with gear oil further improve reliability.
New Developments Presented at Agritechnica 2025
At Agritechnica 2025, Amazone introduced the Catros+ 12003‑2TX, featuring a 12.25‑metre working width, a five‑part folding design with integrated running gear and options for controlled‑traffic farming. The AutoLane system enables automatic drift correction on slopes.
A 25‑Year Milestone
The 2026 anniversary highlights Amazone’s long‑term commitment to innovation in soil tillage. The Catros range now includes models from 2.5 metres to 12 metres, offering solutions for farms of all sizes.
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