A self propelled harvester is a versatile and efficient agricultural machine designed to perform multiple tasks in the harvesting process. These machines are equipped with their own engines, allowing them to move independently across fields, and are capable of cutting, threshing, and separating crops. This article will explore the different types of self propelled harvester, their components, and their significance in modern agriculture.
Types of Self Propelled Harvesters
Combine Harvesters
Combine harvesters, often simply called combines, are one of the most common types of self-propelled harvesters. They are designed to harvest a variety of cultivated seeds, such as wheat, corn, and soybeans. The modern combine harvester is a marvel of engineering, combining the functions of reaping, threshing, and winnowing into a single machine. This significantly reduces the time and labor required for harvesting, making it one of the most economically important labor-saving inventions in agriculture.
Forage Harvesters
Forage harvesters are specialized machines used to harvest crops intended for animal feed, such as corn, grass, and alfalfa. These machines cut the crops and transform them into silage, a fermented feed that can be stored for long periods. Forage harvesters are particularly efficient when used in conjunction with a tractor or truck, which helps in transporting the harvested material 47.
Windrower-Combines
Windrower-combines are versatile machines that first create windrows (rows of cut crops laid down in swaths) which are later picked up by a header attachment. This process effectively combines two harvesting operations into one, making it a highly efficient solution for certain types of crops 3.
Components of a Self-Propelled Harvester
Engine and Power Distribution
The Self propelled harvester is equipped with powerful engines that provide the necessary power for both the movement of the machine and the various harvesting operations. The engine power is typically divided into two parts: one for driving the machine and the other for the harvesting processes.
Cutting Head and Header
The cutting head, also known as the header, is a crucial component of a self propelled harvester. It is designed to cut the crops and feed them into the machine. Different types of headers are available, each suited for specific crops. For example, grain platforms are equipped with reciprocating knife cutter bars and revolving reels to ensure efficient cutting and feeding of the crop.
Threshing and Separating Mechanisms
Once the crops are cut and fed into the machine, they pass through the threshing mechanism. This typically consists of a rotating threshing drum, which separates the grain from the straw and chaff. The separated grain is then collected, while the straw and chaff are discharged from the machine.
Hillside Leveling
Some self-propelled harvesters are equipped with hillside leveling systems. These hydraulic systems re-orient the machine to maintain optimal performance on steep slopes, ensuring that the grain and chaff are evenly distributed and preventing loss of efficiency.
Historical Development
The concept of self propelled harvester has evolved significantly over the years. The first self-powered harvester was built in 1911 by the Holt Manufacturing Company of California. Since then, numerous advancements have been made, including the introduction of continuously variable transmissions and improved traction systems, which have further enhanced the efficiency and performance of these machines 911.
Conclusion
Self-propelled harvesters are indispensable tools in modern agriculture, offering a high degree of efficiency and versatility. Whether it’s a combine harvester for grain crops, a forage harvester for animal feed, or a windrower-combine for specific harvesting needs, these machines have revolutionized the way crops are harvested. Their ability to perform multiple tasks independently has made them a cornerstone of contemporary farming practices, ensuring that agricultural operations can be carried out with minimal labor and maximum efficiency.