Some Measurements of Mechanical Sugarcane Harvester Performance

mills are able to accept chopped cane. In the past three years several locally developed whole stalk harvesters and imported chopper harvesters have come into use in many areas of the South African sugar industry. The Experiment Station therefore conducted time and motion studies during the past two seasons to assess the performance of these harvesters while operating under local field and crop conditions. The results of these studies show that harvester outputs vary considerably. The primary field, crop and management factors affccting both whole stalk and chopped cane harvester performances are discussed. Sonic of the more important issues that potential users of harvesting machines need to bear in mind, when endeavouring to dcrivc optlmum usc from thei r machines, are highlightcd. Future research requirements are also proposed.