Post production: Harvesting

Combine harvesting

To explain the functions of a combine harvester.

All in 1 "go"

What is a combine harvester?

A "combine harvester" is a machine that "combines” several harvesting operations:

• cutting,

• feeding into threshing mechanism,

• threshing,

• cleaning, and

• discharge of grain into a bulk wagon or directly into bags.

(Straw is usually discharged behind the combine in a windrow.)

Save labor

Why would you use a combine harvester?

When labor shortage occurs harvesting is usually the first post production operation that is mechanized. In India, China and Thailand the use of combine harvesters is rapidly increasing.

How does a combine harvester look like?

Combine harvesters for rice come in different sizes, usually with tracks as undercarriage for increased mobility.  

Examples of combine harvesters are the Thai combine and the Mini combine:

How does a combine work?

(Roll your mouse over the numbers)

Next lesson

This ends the module on harvesting. Next is drying.