Optimization S-Series Combines: Harvesting High-Moisture Corn

Harvesting high-moisture corn approximately 25 percent and up, creates its own unique set of challenges versus harvesting dry corn.

Wet corn can affect combine capacity, losses, and grain quality unless adjustments and configuration changes are made because of the differences when harvesting high-moisture corn.

The information provided will assist operators to successfully adjust or configure their S-Series Combines when harvesting high-moisture (wet) corn by listing the steps, starting at the front of the combine and working through the combine, similar to crop flow.
 
 
Feederhouse

• Drum position-Up
• Conveyor speed-slow (small sprocket)

Feed Accelerator

Speed: low speed: 450 rpm

NOTE: Optional feed accelerator (BH84655) for extra high quality, such as popcorn or food corn. Slow speed drive reduces standard two-speed drive from 450/800 rpm to 320/770 rpm.

Feed accelerator type

TriStream™ standard corn, beans, and small grain

TriStream rotor

15 threshing elements are installed in the standard configuration for high-moisture corn harvest.

The smooth elements in the illustrations above are available in kit AH167739.

Concave

It is important to understand the relationship of the concave and rotor when harvesting high-moisture corn. The concave threshes and the rotor separates.

Round bar is the preferred concave for harvesting high-moisture corn since its overall performance is very good in high-moisture and green residue.

Concave setting

Generally, the diameter of the cob is a good initial setting for the concave clearance. If the concave clearance is too wide or closed too tight, cracks and brokens may increase.

Rotor should be set as slow as possible and concave should be set as open as possible. Reduced losses and chipped cobs will be the result. If losses are excessive, increase the rotor speed. For kernels left on cobs, tighten concave.



Separator

If chipped cobs are present, insert 20-mm separator grate spacers (H123918) between separator grate and top rail.