General Overview of Moisture Sensors
Accurate hay moisture measurement is fundamental to the haymaking process. A bale with improper moisture can cause serious problems:
- Excessive Moisture (>20%): Risk of spontaneous combustion and fire. It also encourages mold growth, which reduces the forage’s nutritional quality and palatability.
- Deficient Moisture (<12%): Increased leaf loss due to shattering, which decreases the hay’s protein value and leads to economic losses.
The sensors are designed to provide real-time readings, allowing the operator to adjust machinery speed and make informed decisions in the field.
Harves Tec Product Range
Harves Tec offers two main lines of moisture sensors:
H2O Precision Sensors (Moisture Sensor)
- Technology: Measures the electrical conductivity of the hay.
- Moisture Range: Measures between 5% and 60%.
- Compatibility: Designed to integrate with bale monitoring software and ISOBUS technology.
- Available Sensors:
- Star Wheel Sensors: Ideal for round and large square balers. Their design allows for a constant and accurate measurement as hay enters the chamber.
- Disc Sensors: Specific for round balers. They are mounted in the baling chamber for a continuous reading.
700 Series Sensors (Microwave Moisture Sensor)
- Technology: Uses a microwave sensor for extremely precise moisture measurement.
- Moisture Range: Capable of reading up to 70% moisture, making them ideal for high-moisture applications.
- Additional Features: Compatible with preservative and additive application systems, such as Harves Tec’s dye marker, which marks bales that meet the desired moisture parameters.
Installation and Use
Installing Harves Tec sensors is a simple process that does not require major machinery modifications.
- Installation: The process varies by bale type, but generally, the sensor is mounted in the baler’s chamber (square or round) or on the bale chute. Detailed installation guides and wiring diagrams are provided for correct connection.
- Calibration: The system is calibrated automatically or manually from the tractor cab. Once installed, the sensor provides instant readings.
- Connectivity: The most modern models (like the H2O Series) connect to a display in the tractor cab or directly to a mobile app via Bluetooth. This allows the operator to monitor moisture in real time and view historical data to make strategic decisions.
Competitive Analysis: Harves Tec vs. Gazeeka
Harves Tec competes directly with other specialized brands, such as Gazeeka. Below is a comparison table based on the Gazeeka 870 model:
| Feature | Harves Tec (Microwave) | Gazeeka 870 |
| Technology | Microwave | Microwave |
| Moisture Range | Up to 70% | Not specified, focuses on haymaking ranges. |
| Accuracy | High, model-specific | ±0.7% |
| Reading Speed | Real-time | 25 readings per second |
| Compatibility | ISOBUS, tractor displays | ISOBUS, tractor displays |
| Features | Optional dye applicator, historical data. | Dye application, moisture alerts. |
| User Opinion | Positive feedback on the durability and precision of the microwave system. | Considered by users as a high-precision option. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Hay Moisture Sensors
1. Why is it crucial to measure hay moisture?
It’s vital to prevent risks like spontaneous combustion and mold formation. Accurate measurement ensures forage quality and prevents economic losses.
2. What’s the difference between conductivity and microwave sensors?
Conductivity sensors (H2O Series) measure electrical resistance in the hay, while microwave sensors (700 Series) use waves for more precise measurement, especially in higher moisture ranges.
3. What types of machinery are Harves Tec sensors compatible with?
They are compatible with a wide range of square (large and small) and round balers, often integrating with the ISOBUS technology of modern machines.
4. Can I use a Harves Tec sensor on any baler?
Yes, there are specific sensor models (star wheel or disc) that adapt to different types and brands of balers.
5. Is a display system in the tractor necessary?
Not necessarily. The most modern models (like the H2O Series) can connect to a mobile phone or tablet via Bluetooth, allowing the operator to view readings on an app.
6. Where can I buy these sensors in Argentina?
The brand does not have an explicit official online distributor in Argentina. It’s recommended to contact Harves Tec directly or inquire with high-tech agricultural companies in the Córdoba region to see if they import or distribute them.
7. What moisture range do these sensors measure?
The H2O range measures from 5% to 60%, while the more advanced 700 Series is capable of measuring up to 70% moisture.