Combine harvesters are increasingly popular among farmers due to their efficiency in large-scale farming. However, challenges such as the driver’s skill level and quality issues in certain models have led to negative consequences during operation. For example, during wheat harvest seasons in some regions, farmers experienced significant grain loss because of improper use of the machines. In response, many peasants chose to set aside the combine harvester and return to traditional methods like using sickles to cut wheat and rice. This issue demands serious attention and effective solutions.
One of the most common problems during combine harvester operation is “grain loss,†or what is referred to as “running grain.†Typically, for every 50kg of wheat harvested, 0.5–1.5kg may be lost in the field, while for 50kg of rice, 1–2kg may be lost. Controlling this loss is crucial for improving both the performance and economic benefits of the machine.
### Failure Analysis of Grain Loss in Combine Harvesters
Total grain loss can be divided into four categories: header loss, threshing loss, separation loss, and cleaning loss.
- **Header Loss**: This occurs when the reel gathers the wheat stalks and sends them to the cutting table. If the crop is too dry, the reels may cause grains to fall off. Harvesting in the early morning or late evening, after the dew has dried, can reduce this type of loss.
- **Threshing Loss**: This happens when the crop is not properly threshed. Factors like high humidity, low drum speed, excessive concave gap, or overfeeding can increase this loss. A simple check involves examining 10 ears; if three grains remain unshelled, it indicates a 1% loss.
- **Separation Loss**: The efficiency of the shaker and the angle of the sieve affect how well the grains are separated from the straw. Adjusting these settings properly can prevent grain from being thrown out with the chaff.
- **Cleaning Loss**: The fan blows away chaff and debris, but if the air volume is too high, some grains may also be blown out. Balancing airflow ensures clean grain without excessive loss.
If a combine harvester experiences significant grain loss, the operator should check and adjust these four key areas.
### Challenges in Training and Management
With the rapid growth of combine harvester adoption, especially in rural areas, there has been a mismatch between the development speed and technical training. Many farmers now own multiple models, including imported ones, making it difficult for agricultural authorities to provide consistent training. As a result, issues like "more models, more drivers, more failures, more losses, and lower efficiency" have emerged.
For instance, one farmer was found operating the machine too fast and feeding it too much, leading to overload and increased grain loss. He only knew how to work quickly to earn more money, unaware of how to adjust the feed rate based on crop conditions. Proper training would help operators understand how to balance speed, feed rate, and machine capacity to minimize losses.
Additionally, during operation, the engine should always run at full throttle, even when moving between fields or entering a plot. Reducing the throttle is not recommended unless the machine is moving slowly. This is a critical difference in driving techniques for harvesting compared to other tasks.
### Collaborative Efforts to Address Grain Loss
Solving the problem of grain loss requires joint efforts from agricultural production, supply, and management departments.
Manufacturers must ensure product quality meets national standards and provide clear instructions that are easy for farmers to understand. Including visual guides for adjustments and maintenance can improve usability. Service support should also be strengthened, with local technicians employed to assist farmers directly.
The supply department plays a vital role in connecting manufacturers and farmers. They should train sales staff to guide users on proper operation, adjustment, and maintenance. Providing both the main unit and compatible parts makes future repairs easier.
Agricultural management departments need to integrate supervision, training, and technology promotion. They should collaborate with manufacturers to train drivers effectively and organize pre-harvest maintenance. During cross-regional operations, teams should be formed based on machine models, with trained personnel available for quick assistance.
Only through coordinated efforts among all parties can the issue of grain loss in combine harvesters be fully resolved.
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