Corn Headers: The Unsung Heroes of the Harvest

Corn headers, also known as corn pickers, are essential implements attached to combine harvesters that are specifically designed for efficient and effective corn harvesting. They are responsible for separating corn ears from the stalks, gathering them, and feeding them into the combine for further processing.

Types of Corn Headers:

There are two main types of corn headers:

• Rigid Corn Headers: These are simpler and more affordable options, typically used in smaller fields or by farmers with limited budgets. They come in fixed widths, ranging from 4 to 12 rows, and are not foldable.
  Rigid Corn Header
• Folding Corn Headers: These are more versatile and efficient, especially for large fields. They can be folded hydraulically for transport, reducing road width and improving safety. Folding corn headers come in wider configurations, ranging from 8 to 24 rows.
  Folding Corn Header

Key Components of a Corn Header:

• Gathering Units: These are responsible for pulling the stalks into the header. They can be equipped with various components such as gathering chains, snapping rolls, and strippers, depending on the type of header and crop conditions.
  Gathering Units of a Corn Header
• Ear Savers: These help prevent ears from bouncing off the header and getting lost. They can be fixed or retractable, depending on the header model.
  Ear Savers on a Corn Header
• Row Units: These support the gathering units and provide height adjustment for different ground conditions.
  Row Units on a Corn Header
• Deck Plates: These adjustable plates control the flow of material into the combine and help prevent stalk material from entering the grain tank.
  Deck Plates on a Corn Header
• Knife System: This cuts the stalks and prepares them for processing. The knife system can be manual or hydraulically adjustable.
  Knife System on a Corn Header
• Corn Cob Processor: This breaks down the cobs before they enter the combine, improving threshing efficiency and grain quality.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Corn Header:

• Field size and terrain: Consider the size and layout of your fields when choosing a header width. Wider headers are more efficient in large fields, while narrower headers may be better suited for smaller fields or irregular terrain.
• Crop conditions: Different crop conditions, such as stalk size and moisture content, may require different header features. For example, if you are harvesting lodged corn, you may need a header with aggressive gathering units.
• Combine power: Ensure that the chosen header is compatible with the power and capacity of your combine.
• Budget: Corn headers can range in price from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Consider your budget and choose a header that offers the best value for your needs.

Additional Tips for Using Corn Headers:

• Operate the header at the correct speed to ensure clean harvesting and minimize grain loss.
• Adjust the header height and deck plates according to crop conditions.
• Keep the header clean and well-maintained to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Inspect the header for damage after each use and make necessary repairs promptly.

By understanding the different types of corn headers, their key components, and factors to consider when choosing one, you can select the right implement for your specific needs and ensure efficient and successful corn harvesting.