Combine harvester

Invention

Hiram Moore invented the first combine harvester in 1835. The name comes from the machine's ability to combine harvesting and separating grain crops.

Labor-saving

The combine harvester was a labor-saving invention that reduced the percentage of Americans working on farms from over 90% in 1835 to 50% by 1870.

Parts

A combine harvester has four main parts: the intake mechanism, the threshing and separation system, the cleaning system, and the grain handling and storage system.

Straw

The straw from the combine can be chopped and plowed back into the field, or baled and used for animal feed.

Maintenance

Combines require regular maintenance and care, including pre-season inspections and cleaning the cleaning shoe.

Lifespan

A combine harvester can last for 17–20 years, with a value of 10–20% of its original value by then.

Manufacturers

Major combine harvester manufacturers in North America include John Deere, AGCO, Case IH, CNH Industrial NV, New Holland, and Massey Ferguson.