New & Used Combines for Sale: Quick Guide to Different Types of Combine Harvester
Whether you’re in search of a Case IH combine harvester or brand-new combines, check out our inventory: Used Case combines for sale are one of our most popular items for established and up-and-coming members of Central Alberta’s agricultural community. For the former, understanding the many different types of combine harvesters can be intimidating, so here’s a basic guide to help choose from our new or used combines for sale.
Conventional Combine Harvesters
Conventional combines are the most common type and are used for harvesting small grains like wheat, barley, oats and rye, all of which are traditional and quite common in Alberta. These combines typically consist of a cutting platform, threshing mechanism, cleaning system, and grain storage tank. They are versatile and can handle a wide range of crops.
Examples include:
Rotary Combine Harvesters
Rotary combines, also known as rotary combines, feature a rotary threshing drum instead of the traditional cylinder and concave system. This design offers higher throughput and is particularly well-suited for harvesting crops like soybeans, peas and other legumes. Rotary combines are known for their efficiency in separating grain from straw and other plant material.
Examples include:
- New Holland CR Revelation Series
- Claas Lexion 8000 Series
Axial-Flow Combine Harvesters
Axial-flow combines, developed by International Harvester (now CNH Industrial), use a single axial rotor to perform the threshing and separating functions. This design offers a gentle and efficient threshing process, resulting in minimal grain damage and high grain quality. Axial-flow combines are commonly used for harvesting corn, soybeans, and small grains.
Examples include:
- Case IH Axial-Flow 150 Series
- Massey Ferguson IDEAL Series
Track Combine Harvesters
Track combines feature tracks instead of wheels, offering better traction and reduced soil compaction, especially in wet or soft field conditions. These combines are often preferred for large-scale farming operations where minimizing ground pressure is important. Track combines are available in various configurations, including conventional and rotary designs.
Examples include:
- Challenger MT700E Series Track Combine
Self-Propelled Combine Harvesters
Self-propelled combines have their own engines and are capable of moving independently through the field without requiring a separate tractor for power. This design offers greater flexibility and efficiency compared to pull-behind or stationary combines. Self-propelled combines are available in different sizes and configurations to suit various farming operations.
Examples include:
- Claas Lexion 8000 Series
Small Grain Combine Harvesters
Small grain combines are specifically designed for harvesting crops like wheat, barley, oats and rye. These combines are often compact and lightweight, making them suitable for small to medium-sized farms or for harvesting in areas with limited space or access.
Examples include:
- New Holland CR Revelation Series
Specialized Combine Harvesters
Some combines are designed for specific crops or harvesting conditions. For example, there are specialized rice combines equipped with features like extended cutting platforms and adjustable threshing systems to handle the unique characteristics of rice paddies.
Examples include:
- Kubota DC70G Rice Combine
- Yanmar AW85V Rice Combine
If you have questions, please get in touch with one of our sales teams in Red Deer, Olds, Stettler, Stony Plain or Coronation! We’re always happy to talk specs with our community.