Feed-Cup Operating Characteristics

IMPORTANT: The graph shows operating characteristics of feed-cup metering unit.

The operating band illustrates how the feed-cup metering unit performs with regard to desired population (indicated by horizontal line). The width of the band is due to various sizes and shapes of seeds.

IMPORTANT: To prevent planting miscalculations, make field checks to verify desired rate is being planted.

Best results are obtained when machine is operated below maximum speed.

IMPORTANT: Soybeans vary in size from about 815 seeds/kg to about 1600 seeds/kg (from about 1800 seeds/lb to about 3500 seeds/lb). Consequently, planting rates can vary widely. The following charts were developed using uniform soybeans sized to 1600 seeds/kg (2600 seeds/lb) and should be used only as a guide for initial planter settings.

Large beans will generally result in lower rates than those in the chart and small beans will give somewhat higher rates. Actual rates MUST be checked in the field at planting speed and planter settings changed accordingly.

If desired rate cannot be obtained when planting large soybeans, edible-bean cup may be used. Refer to EDIBLE-BEAN FEED CUP chart. The Medium Size Beans section of the chart should be used as a guide for initial planter settings.

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Feed-cup rates can also vary depending upon surface texture of beans as well as whether or not beans are coated with seed treatment. These factors, in combination with variations in seed size can result in significant differences between rates given in charts versus what is actually planted. Further, in order to reduce rates by changing sprocket combinations, it may be necessary to increase ground speed slightly in order to maintain feed-cup rpm. If feed-cup rpm drops due to a change in transmission setting, cup may actually collect more seeds per revolution, and consequently not reduce planting rate by amount expected unless ground speed is correspondingly increased to maintain feed-cup rpm.

The best way to determine if feed cup is delivering correct rate is to actually check population in the field. Refer to Checking Seed Population section.

After determining correct sprocket combination for your desired planting rate, be certain to plant at a speed no greater than the maximum speed shown for the sprocket combination. This will help ensure accurate planting rates.

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