Today’s turbulent markets, changing weather patterns, high winds or a dry growing season, can really take its toll on soybean growers yield and profit potential.  This isn’t a new necessity – a solution to efficiently and economically get the maximum number of beans off the field and into the hopper has always been a priority for growers. Tim Martin, Crary Ag Business Unit Director, talks about how these systems work and why adding air to your header has proven high returns for soybean growers.

How does an air system work?

A Crary Air System provides a constant high-velocity stream of air that is positioned over the cutter bar on a soybean header. This air stream keeps the crops feeding evenly into the combine by pushing crop back toward the auger or right onto the draper belt. The high-power fan providing this air stream is securely mounted on the back of the header and can be gearbox or belt driven.

What is the difference between a Crary Wind System and a Crary Air Reel?

The Crary Wind System™ can be added to any complete soybean header that already has a reel. A durable and lightweight, painted aluminum sectional manifolds with gusseted drop tubes is mounted on the front of the header and will not interfere with the rotation or fingers on the existing reel. The manifolds are supported by heavy duty flanged joints so that no cables are run through the manifold, potentially disrupting air performance.

The Crary Air Reel® can be installed on any soybean header by removing the existing reel. Some manufacturers even offer a reel delete option when ordering a new header so you can put in a Crary Air Reel. Air is then pushed through the center of the reel and the drop tubes extend directly from the reel.

What are the benefits of adding air to a header?

Crary Air Systems have shown an average yield increase of about 2-3 bushels per acre. Some growers and operators have claimed over 4 bushel yield increases between fields with air on vs. air off. Air reduces normal shatter loss by catching the soybeans before they can bounce out. This in turn will also nearly eliminate volunteer crop (and lost yield!) in your field. Most owners and operators of Crary Air Systems report higher ground speeds due to the fact that they no longer have to wait for bunched crop to clear the platform. With faster ground speeds come higher profits, time saved, and reduced fuel expenses. When comparing the market price of soybeans and the verified yield increase from adding air to a header, an air system can pay for itself in one season, depending on the number of acres harvested.  

Plus, air can be versatile. Types of crop and the condition of the crop are not a concern for air system operators. Many report moving between fields while making no adjustments to their header.  The benefits of high velocity air are being realized in many different crop harvests: wheat, lentils and beans are just a few.