Soybean grain loss during mechanized harvesting in the district of Pedro Juan Caballero, Paraguay

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the losses of soybeans in the cutting platform of different combine models. Six properties located in the district of Pedro Juan Caballero, Paraguay, were sampled for the study. Seven different combine models were evaluated. A total of 30 points of 2 m2 each were used for every combine model. The soybeans were collected manually, immediately after the harvester. The dry mass of the beans was determined and corrected for 13% humidity in order to establish the losses of soybeans from treatments. The average market reference value in dollars was used for the economic calculation. The results were subjected to analysis of variance with 5% probability. Irrespective of the year of manufacture, some combine models showed bean losses well above the normal margins. The verified economic losses for such combine models indicate the need for urgent condition review of their usage by the owners. Moreover, the deficiency in maintenance, land topography and operator training must be considered for mechanized soybean harvesting in the region.