Paddy Harvesting Based on Acreage or Paddy Harvesting Based on Weight: A Comparative Study on Combine Harvesting Loss

Abstract

Losses during paddy harvesting have been a common issue in Malaysia. Currently, there are two methods of harvesting charges, either based on acreage or based on weight. There is a need to observe the harvesting loss effects based on these harvesting charge methods. The experiment was conducted in MADA Regional Farmers’ Organization (PPK) E-IV, Kota Sarang Semut, Kedah, using only reconditioned tangential-flow type combines provided by MADA. The combines used recommended, optimized settings to ensure reduced harvesting losses. Harvesting losses were measured using both acreage-based and weight-based harvesting charges. Harvesting losses were also measured using three different types of harvesting speed: 3.6 km/h (low), 4.5 km/h (medium) and 6.1 km/h (high). Results showed that the average harvesting loss using the weight-based method was 1.3%, while the average harvesting loss using the acreage-based method was 4.6%. Regarding harvesting speed, a low speed resulted in an average harvesting loss of 1%, while a moderate speed resulted in an average harvesting loss of 2%. The top harvesting speed produced an average harvesting loss of 2.6%. Results showed that any harvesting charge method can be applied as long as combine harvesters are properly adjusted according to the recommended settings provided by MARDI SOP. Combine harvester operators should ensure their combine harvesters follow the recommended machine settings and harvesting speed to achieve lower harvesting losses.