Combine performance evaluation and grain loss distribution characterization for corn and soybeans

Rexroad, William

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/122275 Copy

Description

Title

Combine performance evaluation and grain loss distribution characterization for corn and soybeans

Author(s)

Rexroad, William

Issue Date

2023-12-08

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Allen, Cody M

Committee Member(s)

• Davidson, Paul
• Issa, Salah

Department of Study

Agricultural & Biological Engr

Discipline

Engr Tech & Mgmt for Ag Sys

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

Combines, Grain Loss, Fuel Consumption, Grain Quality

Abstract

Modern combines continue to get larger and are expected to harvest more acres in a shorter amount of time. There is an increased importance on accurately and efficiently evaluating the performance of these machines. The presented work looks into an economical and accurate method to understand combine performance and grain loss distribution while harvesting corn (Maize) and soybeans (Glycine max) with three Class 9 combines. This is done by utilizing 11 drop pans across the width of the machine and header to capture grain losses, data loggers to capture the combines telemetry data, and grain samples to evaluate the combines ability to thresh and clean the grain. The analysis resulting from this case study shows differences like a 3.6 bushels per acre higher loss rate for Combine C over Combine B in soybeans between the three combines in an efficient in-field method to better understand how effective these combines are at harvesting a crop, and a 3 gallons per hour higher fuel consumption rate for Combine C than Combine A and B in corn. The 11 drop pans and the four manual measurements are also utilized to create a distribution curve for loss and residue distribution measurement. This enables a better understanding of where the losses are occurring behind the combine and what percent of losses the measured area represents for the entire area that is being harvested. As shown, different combines distribute losses at different locations, so it is important for operators to understand the distribution differences.

Graduation Semester

2023-12

Type of Resource

Thesis

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2023 William Rexroad

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