The Basics of Agricultural Machinery
Agricultural machinery is a vital component of modern farming systems. As technology has advanced over the years, so have the types and capabilities of machines and equipment used in agricultural production. From tractors to combine harvesters, from harvesting and planting implements to grain handling systems, the variety and sophistication of modern agricultural equipment is astonishing.
Tractors are one of the most common pieces of agricultural machinery and are used for a variety of purposes. They are used for plowing, planting, hauling, and other general labor tasks. Tractors can be powered by gasoline, diesel, propane, electric, or hybrid-electric systems, and can range in size from small Lawn & Garden tractors to massive, fully-equipped Farm Tractors.
Harvesting and planting implements are attached to, or pulled behind, a tractor to modify or enhance its functionality. A wide variety of implements exist, including tillers, planters, cultivators, disc harrows, spaders, and lawn rollers. These implements are designed to loosen, turn over, or otherwise prepare the soil for planting; to plant seeds; to cultivate or control weed growth; to harvest a crop; to roll or level the soil; and to complete other tasks.
Combine Harvesters are large, complex machines used to harvest grain and other crops from field or standing plants. They use a series of rotating threshing drums and augers to separate the grain from other crop material, and can be equipped with a variety of different heads for different crops.
Grain handling systems are used to process, move, and store grain on the farm. Grain bins, grain dryers, augers, wagons, and truck boxes are part of a grain handling system used to move and store grain in a timely manner, from harvesting in the field to drying, loading, and eventually shipping to elevators and grain processors.
All of these machines and implements depend on the use of a variety of parts and accessories to complete their tasks. Skid Steers, Backhoes, and Loaders are used to haul, lift, dig, and move materials of various size and weight in a variety of different applications, often in conjunction with other agricultural equipment. Tires, blades, lubricants, grease, filters, chains, and storage bins for a variety of purposes are also essential components of a well-functioning farming system.
The machines and equipment used in agricultural production are essential for modern-day farming. The diversity and sophistication of these pieces of machinery is a testament to the advances of technological progress over the centuries. By understanding and maintaining modern agricultural machinery and its components, farmers can efficiently and effectively manage their production and ultimately increase their overall yields.
