Introduction
A self-propelled forage harvester is an agricultural machinery designed to efficiently harvest, process, and collect green forage crops (e.g., corn, alfalfa, sorghum) in one integrated operation. It combines cutting, chopping, and conveying functions, making it a key equipment for modern forage production.
Structure and Components
- Cutter Head
- Disc Cutter Head: Features high-speed rotating discs for rapid cutting, suitable for various crops (e.g., 3.5m/4.5m foldable disc cutters in Shandong Wuzheng 4QZ series, enabling row-free harvesting).
- Reciprocating Cutter Head: Ensures neat cutting, ideal for lodged crops.
- Conveying System
- Comprises conveyor belts and scraper chains to transport cut forage to the chopping unit.
- Chopping Device
- Roller-type or Disc-type Chopper: Uses high-speed blades to cut forage into specified lengths (e.g., 9QZ-2600 model with a roller chopper and grain crushing mechanism for optimal forage mixing).
- Grain Crushing Device
- Common types include roller crushers, which break grains by rotating rollers to improve feed digestibility.
- Throwing System
- Consists of a throwing tube and fan to discharge chopped forage into transport vehicles (e.g., 4QZ-18 model with a 210° rotatable throwing tube for flexible loading).
- Chassis and Drive System
- Includes engine, transmission, drive wheels, and steering wheels for mobility and field adaptability.
- Hydraulic System
- Controls cutter head lifting, component operation, and steering with high precision and reliability.
- Electrical System
- Integrates controllers, sensors, and displays for parameter monitoring, fault diagnosis, and even auto-navigation in advanced models.
Working Principle
The harvester operates by:
- Cutting forage crops via the cutter head.
- Conveying the crops to the chopping device.
- Chopping the forage into uniform pieces.
- Crushing grains (if needed) to enhance nutritional value.
- Throwing the processed forage into trailers or storage facilities.
Hydraulic and electrical systems coordinate to ensure smooth, efficient operation.
Performance Advantages
- High Efficiency: Completes cutting, chopping, and throwing in one pass, reducing labor and time costs.
- Wide Adaptability: Suitable for various crops (corn, wheat, ryegrass, alfalfa) and terrains.
- Precise Chopping: Adjusts forage length to meet feeding requirements, ensuring uniformity and digestibility.
- Automation: Advanced controls minimize operator workload, with features like in-cabin operation and intelligent monitoring.
Development Trends
- Intelligence: Integration of auto-navigation, AI-driven parameter adjustment, and autonomous operation to improve accuracy.
- Diversified Sizing:
- Large-scale Models: For high-efficiency, large-field operations.
- Compact Models: For mountainous or small-scale farms, offering flexibility.
- Multi-Functionality: Potential integration with fertilization, seeding, or plant protection functions for comprehensive agricultural operations.
- Energy Conservation: Adoption of low-emission engines and energy-saving designs to reduce environmental impact.
This machinery plays a pivotal role in modern animal husbandry, enhancing forage harvest efficiency and supporting sustainable agricultural development.