A combine harvester is a machine that performs the tasks of reaping, threshing and separating corn grain into straw and chaff vis-à-vis one implement. It has revolutionized the agricultural industry in a big way as it has streamlined the process of harvesting and made it less labor intensive. It is a complex piece of machinery that requires expert hands and must be examined on a regular basis to ensure it is functioning properly. Hence, it is important to work with trustworthy and reliable suppliers and parts distributors who can provide top quality parts for your harvester.

In the early days of the combine harvester, it was pulled by a team of horses (Keith/Brumfield). However, it was dangerous for both humans and animals because if the combine got stuck on a hill it could easily tip over and crush people or start fires due to coal that fell out of the boiler heaters. This was a major problem because it not only cost a lot of money in repair costs, but it also prevented farmers from making a profit.

This problem was solved when a company called Massey Harris from Wisconsin invented a self propelled combine that looked like a tractor. This was a major advancement because it not only saved on fuel, but it also avoided the danger of people being crushed and fires that were started (Keith/Brumfield).

The earliest combines had an open design that allowed the wind to blow away the straw and chaff. But this wasn't enough so they developed a closed system that blew air on the plant or grain. This separated and blown away heavier bits of plant material, known as chaff, from the clean grain. The chaff was then carried by conveyors called straw walkers towards the back of the combine while the grain passed into a tank and into a trailer attached to it.

Once a combine has a full tank, it drives off to the next field to continue the process. The chaff and stalks of the crop are spread out over the field behind it or chopped up and used as bedding for livestock or limited feed for them. A tarp can be opened to prevent the unwanted plants from blowing in rainy weather.

There are many types of combines that farmers can choose from depending on their needs and the type of crops they grow. Some combines are fitted with tracks instead of wheels and are good for use on rough terrain. There are also tractors that can be mounted on these combines to drive them. The most popular and effective combine is a tractor mounted model because it allows farmers to cut bigger areas faster and saves on fuel and maintenance costs.