A combine header is a removable attachment at the front of a combine harvester, designed for specific crops.
Understanding the Combine Header
The combine header plays a crucial role in the harvesting process. It is the first point of contact with the crop in the field, responsible for:
- Cutting: Separating the crop from the ground.
- Gathering: Guiding the cut crop into the combine for processing.
Types of Combine Headers
While various types exist, the most common is the grain platform:
- Grain Platform (Standard Header):
- Equipped with a reciprocating knife cutter bar to slice through the crop stems.
- Features a revolving reel with metal teeth to pull cut crops onto the header.
- The cut crop then falls into an auger, which moves it toward the combine's feeder house.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cutter Bar | Reciprocating knife that cuts the crop stems. |
| Reel | Revolving component with teeth to guide cut crops. |
| Auger | Moves cut crops towards the combine feeder house. |
| Removable | Header can be detached and swapped for others designed for specific crops. |
Why Different Headers?
Different crops require different harvesting methods. Combine headers are designed for specific harvesting needs. For instance, headers designed for corn harvesting will differ significantly from grain platform. The type of header used impacts efficiency and grain loss.
