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How to reduce combine losses Step 1 is to measure the amount of loss. Measuring true losses out the back of the combine requires a drop pan. To take a sample, disengage the spreading mechanism and move it out of the way. Then use the drop pan to capture a sample. Once you have a sample, remove the straw and chaff and preserve only the seed. The Combine Seed Loss Guide explains how to calculate the bu./ac. loss based on the drop pan sample.
Step 2 is to determine whether those losses are acceptable. An acceptable loss rate strikes a balance between productivity, saving grain, and a clean sample. For some, one per cent is worth striving for. For others, three per cent might be best if the harvest season is tight and it means they can keep the feed rate up and harvest an extra quarter section per week per machine. Step 3 is to take steps to lower losses…if they’re too high. Our Combine Optimization Tool walks the user through a step by step process to diagnose combine issues. The full article describes these steps in more detail.
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