8 tips for better using grain harvesters, according to AGCO

The year 2019 has already begun and, with it, comes the expectation of fulfilling the forecasts made for the agricultural sector in 2018. A new federal government is also beginning, which has encouraging agribusiness as one of its main goals. Optimism with the domestic and foreign markets is on the rise. The development of a new country project will directly depend on the success of the sector.

Following these trends, the most recent forecast for the grain harvest in Brazil, released by the National Supply Company (Conab), is also positive. The harvest is expected to reach between 233,7 and 238,3 million tons in 2019 – production represents an increase of between 2,5% and 4,5% compared to the previous period.

Such conditions reinforce the need for investments in logistics and, above all, in infrastructure. The latest survey of rural producer habits, promoted by the Brazilian Association of Rural Marketing and Agribusiness (ABMRA), showed that 34,14% of producers intend to purchase new machinery this year, including harvesters.

Given such encouraging data, we have prepared eight practical tips on how rural producers can better use their machinery at harvest time and increase the chances of reaching, or even exceeding, the 2019 grain harvest projection:

Take care of the part of the harvester with the greatest potential for losses – The section of a combine that can often have the greatest potential for crop loss is the cutting deck. Therefore, the ideal is to work with a good regulation, always according to the condition of the soil, the type of crop and the harvesting speed. Machines with Draper platforms favor productivity, as they have transport belts instead of snails and treat the harvested grains more delicately, preserving the quality of the harvested material.

Autopilot is your ally – Grain harvesters are large, robust machines that operate at speeds that are considered low when compared to other vehicles. Logically, the larger the harvest area, the more time is dedicated to this activity. For any human being, it is difficult to be attentive during 100% of the harvesting time. Therefore, by using the autopilot, the farmer will be able to preserve physical energy and focus his attention on strategic decisions, other than driving the harvester.

Post-harvest maintenance is important – Normally a harvester is stopped for long periods after harvesting. Taking care of the equipment before storing it increases its useful life and avoids unexpected events during the next harvest. As preventative maintenance, it is worth paying attention to cleaning and lubricating parts. For combines with a Draper platform, it is important to remember to release the tension on the part. Keeping it clean will protect the equipment from the action of external agents. Finally, knowing the machine well will allow the rural producer to carry out predictive maintenance, that is, to replace worn parts before the harvester stops working and is out of action.

Adjust the equipment according to the type of grain – Varying the speed settings of both the harvester and its platform, according to the type of grain planted, can directly influence the quality of the harvested grain. Commercial grain allows for a more optimized harvest, while for seed grain, a smoother and more delicate machine operation is best suited.

Be present, even if from a distance – The technology embedded in today's machines allows rural producers to perform various functions without sacrificing field activity. Today it is possible to operate and monitor a harvester remotely, and at the same time carry out, for example, administrative tasks on the property. Solutions such as Agcommand, a factory component of Valtra harvesters, allow farmers to monitor their harvest yield from anywhere, with a smartphone or tablet.

Pay attention when distributing post-harvest straw – The tip is basic, but it's always good to remember: the more uniform the distribution of straw after harvest, the better the retention of organic matter in the soil. This will directly influence the next planting, which will be done in a more humid and well-nourished soil, contributing to an increase in grain productivity.

The quality of the harvested grains does not depend solely on the harvester – Grain harvesters help optimize work in the field, so that the land can produce more in less time. However, the machinery does not perform miracles. A good harvest will only be possible if all stages of cultivation are done well. Treating the soil, paying attention to the quality of the seeds and carefully applying pesticides are some of the practices that will ensure that the harvest is more productive.

Prioritize brands with the best possible after-sales structure – Even with all care, after a certain time the harvester will need maintenance and, eventually, replacement of parts. Choosing a brand that has a vast network of dealerships and personalized after-sales work will ensure that rural producers have the ideal support in moments like these.