Farm equipment is exposed to extremely challenging conditions, with equipment required to perform at peak at the start of the season, after a long period of inactivity. Throughout the full crop cycle, from soil preparation and planting to irrigation and harvesting, farmer equipment is required to perform optimally in dusty, muddy, wet, rocky soil conditions paired with extreme heat and cold. Productive, sustainable farming operations require high quality, rugged components built to last and to perform optimally in tough conditions.

“Farmers simply cannot tolerate breakdowns in the field resulting in extremely costly unplanned downtime to allow for repairs,” states SKF key accounts manager: agriculture Charl Engelbrecht. “In addition to losses in productivity, equipment failure can also negatively affect yields. Power transmission is the vital link between moving parts. A chain failure on critical equipment can result in extended downtime and lead to further breakages.”

SKF agricultural roller chains as well as special combine, baler and drive chains, are used in the agricultural industry on a range of machines and equipment that includes combine harvesters and headers, planters, feed mixers, balers, and other equipment.

To ensure high machine and equipment performance, efficiency and reliability throughout the season, Engelbrecht recommends a two-pronged approach: “Annual inspection of equipment so that parts can be replaced, if required, before the equipment goes out into the field. Secondly, equipment must be fitted with durable and quality components specially designed to withstand demanding work conditions.”

SKF notes that it develops and designs agricultural chains in close collaboration with equipment manufacturers, distributors and end-users, to meet farmers’ stringent demands and real-life needs. The company also recommends using its specific lubrication systems and products such as SKF battery driven grease guns, single point lubricators, and medium- and high-temperature chain oil, to ensure optimal chain performance.

The company says that, together with its brands PEER, Chicago Rawhide and Lincoln, its portfolio of products for the agricultural industry is suitable for equipment in all stages of the crop cycle.