Machine for Spring Technological Harvesting of Industrial Hemp

Abstract

The development of industrial hemp production necessitates the creation of new technical means and methods, and the refinement of technological approaches for cultivating and harvesting this crop. In Ukraine, where the hemp industry is experiencing a period of active growth, there is a particular need for technical solutions that can ensure a high-quality harvesting process and remain affordable for relatively small farms. The article discusses the efficiency of the machine that was developed and manufactured for spring harvesting of hemp stalks. The parameters of the hemp stalks windrow were considered, taking into account the factors affecting its quality. In addition, there were selected the parameters to asses the quality of the resulting windrow. The research was carried out using probability theory and statistical methods. Through experimental studies, the functionality of the developed and manufactured machine was confirmed. It was established that the machine facilitates the formation of a uniform windrow from hemp stalks, with the skew cutting angle not exceeding 17˚, which allows it to be collected with a baler, minimizing the risk of clogging.