By Caelin Mills, Marketing Manager
The Ferguson Three-Point Hitch tractor was first used in agricultural machinery hydraulic systems in the early 20th century. It was the advent of hydraulic technology in agriculture that continues to set the standard for equipment on almost all tractors today. Farming is no longer just a local market, but a global one. The adoption of irrigation systems, tractors, planters and combined harvesters greatly enhances farming efficiency, reduces injuries, minimizes downtime between seasons and lowers the cost of produce. Farmers can deliver their products to communities around the world in a timely manner, benefiting not only the farmers themselves but also consumers.
With the world’s growing population, localized farming is becoming obsolete. Today, family-run farms use just 8% of available agricultural land. Instead, industrial agriculture has become a necessity, with intense farming of crops and live animals in the mass production of food. This level of agricultural output would not be possible without hydraulics in small and heavy agriculture equipment.
Today’s Agriculture
Hydraulics play a pivotal role in every aspect of the farming process, from planting, feeding and watering crops to picking, sorting and distributing them. Prior to the implementation of hydraulics, labor costs in agriculture were excessive. Today, industrial farming provides a significant reduction in labor expenses, largely due to the enhanced efficiency and productivity provided by hydraulics in farming.
Reducing injury
However, the benefits of hydraulics in agriculture extend beyond cost reduction. One major advantage is the reduction in the risk of injuries. Farming machinery, such as irrigation systems, tractors, planters and combine harvesters, create a safer working environment for farmers. Tractors especially play a significant role in agriculture, offering wide versatility in multiple operations.
Tractors are the most frequently used equipment on farms. Not only can they easily move heavy materials, but they can also be equipped with attachments like bale spears, rotary tillers, rakes and plows, allowing them to assist with landscaping and various farming tasks. Additionally, tractors can clear debris, prevent obstacles and perform other functions, such as digging, plowing snow, clearing brush and tilling land. The ability to attach various tools to a tractor makes it adaptable to multiple applications.
Since the introduction of hydraulics, the agricultural industry implemented safety regulations to ensure the well-being of farmers. They encompass areas such as farmer safety, handling of livestock, poultry, aquaculture, crop production and provisions of drinking water. Farmworkers can be at risk of severe injuries and even fatality. Similar to coal mining, farmers are at risk for diseases and cancers of the lungs and skin associated with chemical use, prolonged sun exposure. They can also be affected by noise-induced hearing loss. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations and standards that encompass agricultural operations. By adhering to these rules, farmers can perform their jobs in the safest possible manner.
Limiting downtime
Well maintained hydraulic equipment also contributes to limiting downtime, leading to increased productivity. By enabling machines to operate at a faster rate, hydraulics help to ensure that farmers can begin crop and livestock production early in the season. Timing is crucial in agriculture, as crops must be planted at specific times during the season and be prepared for weather conditions that may shorten the peak growing window. Therefore, minimizing downtime is essential. By maximizing the efficiency and timeliness of planting, growing and harvesting crops, hydraulics made a positive impact on the agriculture industry.
Decreasing prices of produce
Profitability in agriculture can be a moving target. However, another significant benefit of hydraulics in agriculture is the reduction in the price of produce. With increased productivity during the growing seasons, the cost of agricultural products becomes more affordable for consumers. This can benefit a farmer’s bottom line and encourage investment in new hydraulic machinery that can further improve their operation. There is no doubt that hydraulics directly influence the agricultural sector’s impact on the economy by increasing food production and influencing the global market. Some impoverished regions are learning to implement modern agricultural techniques, including hydraulic equipment and other initiatives to further understand and change the conditions of their local communities through the help of innovative NGO’s, such as:
Quality hydraulic components
Hydraulic components play a crucial role in all of this, as they are indispensable in machinery used for crop production, harvesting and livestock management. With continuous advancements in hydraulic component technology, farms can operate with optimal efficiency, leading to significant reductions in downtime and costs, while bolstering overall productivity.
However, farmers should exercise caution when selecting hydraulic components for several reasons:
- Opting for high-quality components that are specifically designed for agricultural applications ensures smoother operation, precise control and optimal power transmission.
- Selecting reliable and durable hydraulic components that can withstand demanding conditions is crucial to ensure long-lasting performance and minimize the risk of breakdowns or failures that lead to costly downtime.
- Choosing reputable and certified hydraulic components ensures reliability and safety of machinery, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Conclusion
Quality hydraulic components have proven effective in revolutionizing the agricultural industry. Hydraulic agricultural equipment provides numerous benefits for farmers, including increased productivity, reduced injuries, limited downtime and increased profitability. Moreover, hydraulic equipment impacts the economy by driving growth of local and global food trade and helps address issues such as poverty and food scarcity. By enabling safer and more efficient farming practices, hydraulics have caused lasting effects on farming, cementing its significance as a transformative technology in agriculture.
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