A combine harvester is a popular implement among farmers as it makes their work easier. This commonly used equipment comes with three key harvesting steps: reaping, threshing, and winnowing. Each step has its methods and steps. The typical crops that are harvested with a combine are wheat, rice, corn, barley, soybeans, oats, and even certain pulses. As this equipment carries out various tasks at once, farmers are able to harvest much more land in less time than they could by manual labor.
In this guide, we are going to discuss each one of the steps. Additionally, we will discuss the popular brands of tractors that work well with a combine harvester.
Know Your Farm Size and Crops
To purchase a combine harvester, one must have an idea of the size of one’s farm and the crops grown.
- Small Farms: Farming enterprises of small sizes require compact or mini combine harvesters. These are cheap in cost and easy to operate for such crops as wheat and paddy.
- Medium Farms: Mid-size combine harvesters are better here. These machines save fuel and time. They can handle more crop types like maise, soybeans, and barley.
- Large Farms: These farms need high-capacity machines. Big combine harvesters have powerful engines and large grain tanks. They can harvest a big field quickly without stopping too often.
Understand Engine Power and Capacity
The power of a combine harvester is measured in Horsepower (HP). This decides how strong and fast the machine works.
- For small farms, 50–70 HP is enough.
- For medium farms, 70–120 HP machines are ideal.
- For large farms, you may need over 120 HP for better performance.
If you already use a Solis tractor on your farm, you may be familiar with powerful and fuel-efficient engines. Just like Solis tractors, good combine harvesters also come with strong engines that give better mileage and results.
Match the Harvester with Crop Type
Not every harvester is perfect for all crops. Some are made for grains like wheat and rice. Others are better for row crops like maize and soybeans.
- For grains (wheat, barley, paddy) – Choose a harvester with a sharp cutter and smooth threshing drum.
- For row crops (corn, soybean) – You need a special corn header to handle tall and thick plants.
- For mixed crops, a multi-crop combine harvester is best. It can be adjusted to harvest different crops easily.
Check the Grain Tank Size
The grain tank stores the harvested crop. A larger tank means fewer breaks during work.
- Small Tank (1000–2000 liters): Suitable for small farms.
- Medium Tank (2000–4000 liters): Good for medium-sized farms.
- Large Tank (4000+ liters): Ideal for big farms with large areas to cover.
Just like a Ferguson tractor offers solid build and long-lasting performance, a combine harvester with a good grain tank helps in non-stop harvesting.
Hydraulic lifting capacity
The header and auger of a combine harvester move because of the hydraulic system. The lifting capacity tells us how far up the header can lift crops and how the machine deals with thick crop material.
- Higher capacity: Areas where crops grow tall, such as maize or paddy fields, greatly benefit from tractors with a higher ability to lift the soil.
- Adjustable settings: Adjustments to hydraulic parameters of some models allows the machine to be used on mixed or varying height crops and fields.
Consider the Field Conditions
In India, farm lands are not always smooth. Some areas are hilly, while others are muddy. Choose a harvester that suits your land:
- 4-wheel drive (4WD): Best for rough and uneven land.
- Tracked combines: Ideal for wet or soft soil.
- Compact machines: Easy to use in small fields with narrow paths.
Check for Technology Features
Modern combine harvesters come with new technologies that make harvesting smarter and faster.
- GPS and auto-steering: Helps in moving straight and saves fuel.
- Automatic settings: Adjust the machine for different crops automatically.
- Yield mapping: Indicates the amount of crop being gathered in every part of the field.
These features are handy, especially to farmers who have already adopted the use of modern machines such as the Solis tractor or the Ferguson tractor on their farms.
Ease of Maintenance and Service Support
A combine harvester is a big investment. So, it is important to choose a brand that gives good after-sales service.
- Local service centres: Make sure service support is available near your village or town.
- Spare parts availability: Choose a machine that has spare parts that are easily available.
- User-friendly design: Simple machines are easy to clean and repair.
Set Your Budget and Check Finance Options
The price of a combine harvester depends on size, brand, and features. It is good to fix a budget and explore your options:
- Many banks and financial companies give farm equipment loans.
- Some state governments also give subsidies under schemes to buy harvesters.
Talk to your local dealer or agriculture department to learn about the latest offers.
Brand Reputation and Customer Support
Always go for a brand that has a good name in farming. Ask other farmers about their experience. Read reviews and talk to the local dealer.
A brand like Solis tractor is known for strong and affordable tractors. Similarly, many combine harvester companies also offer trusted models with reliable support.
Also, a Ferguson tractor is famous for its tough build and long-lasting performance. If you trust such brands for your tractors, look for the same quality and service in combine harvesters.
Conclusion: Choosing the right combine harvester
A farmer needs to make the proper combine harvester selection. Before making the purchase, you should look at your farm size, crop, land condition, and budget. Seek machines with adequate power, correct grain tank capacity, and intelligent features. Remember to examine for excellent service and support after buying.
Moreover, using the well-known brands’ equipment, such as Solis tractors, can help farmers improve their quality and performance. So, research the brands, prices, and specifications well to make an improved decision for farming needs.
