A reaper cum binder machine is a piece of agricultural equipment designed to streamline the harvesting process by combining the functions of a reaper and a binder. In traditional agriculture, the reaper and binder were separate machines used sequentially to harvest and bundle crops. However, the advent of the reaper cum binder revolutionized farming practices by integrating these two functions into a single machine, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
Components and Functions: 1. Cutting Mechanism (Reaper Function): The best reaper cum binder is equipped with a cutting mechanism typically consisting of a sickle bar or a cutting platform with sharp blades. This component is responsible for cutting standing crops such as wheat, barley, oats, or other grains.
2. Gathering and Transporting System: Once the crops are cut, the machine employs a gathering system that collects the harvested crops. This system might include conveyors or augers that transport the cut crop to the binding unit.
3. Binding Unit: The binding unit of the machine is where the gathered crops are bundled or tied together. This process involves forming the cut crops into sheaves or bundles and securing them with twine or wire.
4. Knotting and Discharge: After binding, the machine knots the twine or wire to secure the sheaves. Once secured, the reaper cum binder discharges the bundled crops onto the field in an organized manner for convenient collection or drying.
Advantages of a Reaper Cum Binder: Increased Efficiency: By combining the reaping and binding functions, the machine significantly reduces the time and labour required for harvesting compared to using separate machines.
Cost Savings: Farmers benefit from reduced operational costs as they no longer need to invest in and maintain separate reaping and binding equipment.