Forage harvester

JD5730ForageHarvesterJuly2004

Forage Harvester

A forage harvester, also known as a silage harvester, forager, or chopper, is a farm implement that harvests forage plants to make silage. Silage is used to feed livestock over the winter months when fresh pasture is not available. Forage harvesters can be self-propelled units, or they can be attached to a tractor.

Types of Forage Harvesters

Forage harvesters come in two main types: precision chop and whole crop. Precision chop harvesters cut the forage into small pieces, typically between 10 and 15 mm. Whole crop harvesters, on the other hand, cut the forage into longer lengths, which is suitable for certain types of livestock feed and for biomass fuel production.

Self-Propelled

Self-propelled forage harvesters are large, powerful machines equipped with their own engine. They are highly efficient and can cover large areas quickly but are more expensive than tractor-mounted versions.

Tractor-Mounted

Tractor-mounted forage harvesters are attached to the tractor via a three-point hitch and are powered by the tractor's PTO (power take-off). They are less expensive and can be a good option for smaller farms or for those with a limited budget.

Components

The main components of a forage harvester include the cutterhead, feed rolls, accelerator, and spout. The cutterhead has knives that chop the forage, which is then fed through the machine by the feed rolls. The accelerator increases the speed of the chopped forage, which is then directed out of the machine through the spout and into a collection container or directly into a transport vehicle.

Usage

Forage harvesters are used to harvest a variety of crops, including corn (for corn silage), grass, and alfalfa. The harvested forage is then used to make silage, which is stored in a silo, silage clamp, or bale and used as animal feed.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance of a forage harvester is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. This includes sharpening the knives, checking the wear on the feed rolls, and ensuring that all moving parts are well-lubricated.

Environmental Impact

The use of forage harvesters can have an environmental impact, including emissions from diesel engines and the potential for soil compaction. However, silage made from harvested forage can help reduce waste by preserving feed that might otherwise spoil.