Comparison of Different Mechanization Practices Used in Haymaking

Abstract

Different mechanization practices are included in the drying process, which is among the methods (ensiling, drying, storing at high moisture level, etc.) used in the preservation of roughage, which has an important place in the nutrition of ruminant animals. Haymaking processes are applied by natural (at the field) or artificial drying methods (in warehouses and special dryers). During drying, the hay may be loose or loosely baled. The machines that can be used in various stages of haymaking from harvesting forage to filling the warehouse can be listed as strimmers, crushers, windrow harvesters, hay rakes, loose forage harvesters, balers, bale collecting and transporting machines. These mechanization practices have positive and negative aspects relative to each other. In other words, these mechanization practices affect hay quality at different levels. In this study, different mechanization practices applied in hay drying and the effects of these mechanization practices on hay quality were emphasized.