Rape, also known as canola, is a high-value crop that offers low input costs, minimal labor requirements, and significant economic returns. It also helps improve soil quality and increase land productivity. However, the manual harvesting process is labor-intensive and difficult, which has limited its large-scale adoption. To address this, mechanized harvesting methods have been developed to make the process more efficient and less demanding.
The mechanical harvesting of rape typically involves two main approaches: combined harvesting and staged harvesting. In combined harvesting, a single machine performs cutting, threshing, separating the straw, and cleaning the seeds in one operation. This method is most effective when the rape is at 85–90% maturity. For staged harvesting, the crop is first cut by a cutter or manually and left in the field for 5–7 days to dry before being processed with a combine harvester. This approach allows for better control over the timing of harvest and reduces seed loss.
The combined harvesting process includes several key steps: crew preparation, field preparation, trial cutting, normal operation, unit maintenance, and storage. Proper technical execution is crucial—harvesting should be clean, with the correct cutting height and even distribution of stems in the field. Manual harvesting, on the other hand, is best done when the rape reaches about 80% maturity, followed by natural drying and final processing with a combine harvester.
Timing is critical for successful harvesting. The best time to harvest is when the upper pods are slightly hard and the lower ones begin to turn yellow. Fields with uneven maturity should be harvested when 50% of the pods are mature, and green pods should not exceed 35–5%. Harvesting during early morning, late afternoon, or cloudy days is ideal, while midday heat should be avoided to prevent seed shattering.
For optimal performance, the combine harvester must be properly adjusted. The machine should operate at medium to low speeds, with the picking wheel set to a slow rotation to minimize damage. Adjustments should be made based on crop maturity and weather conditions, such as increasing the drum gap in hot weather to reduce seed breakage. Wind speed and sieve openings should also be fine-tuned to ensure efficient separation of seeds from chaff.
Agronomic practices play a vital role in facilitating mechanical harvesting. Planting areas should be arranged to allow for staggered harvesting, and some crops may be cut manually in advance to aid in drying. Field layout should accommodate the machine’s width, and proper irrigation and fertilization help ensure uniform maturity across the field.
Operators must be trained and follow safety protocols. Before starting, a trial cut should be performed to identify any issues. Regular maintenance and adjustments are essential to ensure smooth operation. After use, the machine should be cleaned thoroughly and stored in a dry place to prevent rust.
Performance indicators for Chinese rapeseed combine harvesters include total loss rate (≤8%), impurity rate (≤6%), and broken seed rate (≤0.5%). Economic benefits include increased efficiency, reduced labor demand, and improved productivity, making mechanized harvesting a valuable option for modern agriculture.
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