Introduction
There’s no doubt cotton is one of the great contributions America has made to global society, or that cotton production was and is an integral part of the American economy which led to becoming an international superpower. Without cotton, clothing would be made of expensive silk, heavy wool, or coarse uncomfortable flax linen. Cotton is used in other items as well, including coffee filters, paper currency, book bindings, and even tires. One aspect of the cotton product is to harvest the crop, typically “picking,” in order to provide the raw material for the end product.
The First Cotton Pickers: Manual Labor
Traditionally, cotton had to be picked by hand because of the nature of the plant. The boll is a protective shell which blooms into the usable fiber for making what the consumer recognizes as cotton fabric. Harvesting the entire plant makes no more sense than chopping down an apple tree in order to gather the fruit. Picking is extremely hard work, as it grows in tropical (or near tropical) humid hot climates, and the plant itself is sticky and dirty to work with. Manual labor worked historically when Native Americans and Asian peoples grew the crop for personal use or were able to sell the product for fair compensation compared to the amount of work. During colonial times in America, the atrocity of slave labor was required to meet European quotas for production at a valid price point.
Early Machines for Picking Cotton
In the 1850’s, American innovators began designing machines to speed harvesting, but they were impractical to use because of how they wound up getting jammed as the sticky raw material was run through them. It was more a matter of the Victorian Age industrial revolution than an actual attempt to solve a problem. A further issue was that at the time, the plant itself had not been engineered to bloom at once, but the machines were unable to determine which bolls were ready to be picked and which needed to wait until the next week’s harvest. Hand labor was the better solution.
After the American Civil War and the end of slavery as an institution, the need for industrialized farming became more apparent. In the late 1920’s, the Rust brothers, John Daniel and Mack, began working toward a practical solution. In 1933, John Rust received his first patent on a working cotton picker machine. There were some problems with the machine, it still required a fair amount of manual labor to clean and maintain it while running, but the basic design was valid and led to improvements which eventually provided a more useful and practical picking machine.
Other companies began to see the need and spend toward research and develop of a more practical picker which didn’t rely on Rust’s patents, unfortunately, their efforts were slowed by the demands on manufacturing toward military needs during World War II. Eventually, the International Harvester Company developed a working picker in 1944 which has changed the nature of production ever since.
Picker Machines versus Stripper Machinery
Modern Machine Types
Today’s pickers include machinery designs based on earlier inventions and newer styles based on modern technology. There are multiple solutions which fall under six general styles of pickers:
- Picker style machines remove the blooms without damaging the unopened bolls, allowing for multiple runs for maximum harvest efficiency.
- Thresher style pickers use a multi-stage system to harvest the entire plant and then remove the fibers from the stalk.
- Pneumatic pickers use pressurized air to force the cotton off the plant rather than manually removing it.
- Electrically charged pickers use a weak current to attach to the static electricity which naturally occurs in these fibers, then draw the cotton magnetically to a belt or rod.
- Chemical sprays can target the harvestable portion of the plant and make it easier to pick, whether with a following pass using a machine or for laborers to harvest by hand.
- Cotton strippers are actually a different type of machine which fulfills the same end goal. The stripper tends to be used in places where the climate doesn’t allow for multiple harvests, and simply “strips” off every bloom and boll regardless of whether it is valid toward making cloth as the end product.
Finding Parts for Repairs on Today’s Cotton Pickers
Picking cotton is a heavy job, even for a machine. As such, these pickers need replacement parts on a regular basis, such as provided by Certi-Pik, USA. Contact us for information on how to get your machine up and running again when you need repair parts.
There are five main varieties of cotton that are commercially grown. For comparison, just in the United States, there are about 2,500 varieties of apples. Cotton fibers may be similar, but each variety has its own properties. Egyptian material is very soft, while Asiatic material is coarse, used for blankets and other types of cloth. The most common type is Upland, which is used for a variety of products, even seed oil. Although the bolls of Upland material may be good for general use, the best cottons for fabrics are varieties that produce an extra-long staple. Here’s a primer on the difference between the two varieties.
What is Pima Cotton?
Pima cotton originated in Peru, but it is really an American marvel. Originally, it was grown in South Carolina. Producers cross-pollinated cottons to obtain an extra-long staple material. It was the Arizona Pima tribe that worked with the Department of Agriculture to bring innovations to the crop and make it the superior material that it is today. In the mid-20th century, there were many advances in quality to make it a premier variety today. It is mostly grown in Texas, California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
This variety is an extra-long fiber that measures 1.4 to 2-inches in length. Most fibers are around one inch long or less. It needs to be harvested by hand to protect the fibers. Pima produces a smoother fabric that is durable and soft. Careful harvesting maintains the true color of the material, so it takes to dyes very well. It makes one of the most luxurious fabrics in the world, but there are many fakes. The material can be scientifically verified and labeled to ensure the quality difference. It is hypoallergenic, too. It’s a great fabric for people with sensitive skin.
What is Egyptian Cotton?
Egyptian material is considered one of the finest fibers in the world. At one time, the name referred to where it was grown. Today, the material is still grown in Egypt, but it is also grown in Peru, India and the United States. One of the key differences with this material is that it is hand-picked. This puts less stress on the fibers. The fibers can be produced into very fine yarns that are softer than regular material because the fibers remain straight after picking. It is a very flexible and durable fabric that makes luxurious bed sheets.
One thing to note is that this is a variety that can be grown anywhere it’s hot and dry. Some manufacturers label any type grown in Egypt as Egyptian, even though it may not be as soft and durable as true extra-long-staple. You can’t just look at the country in which the material was grown to get authentic material designed for quality. You have to look carefully at the type of material that was woven into the fibers.
How are These Different?
Both types share many similarities that make for a luxurious fabric. The main difference between the two is that the former is grown primarily in the United States, while Egyptian is grown in a hot, dry climate like the Nile River Valley. Both varieties are known as “extra-long staple cottons,” that produce a high-quality fabric. Either will make a wonderful set of sheets, provided that the material is correctly labeled. As with other options, there are many fake types of Egyptian material, largely due to the fact that any material grown in Egypt can technically be labeled as “Egyptian material.”
Which is Softer?
Pima sheets are often considered the most luxurious in the world, provided that the label is 100% authentic. Because it is not necessarily superior quality, you may want to steer clear of sheets labeled as Egyptian unless it too has a scientific verification label. Pima sheets, even with lower thread counts, such as 200 to 300 are very soft and will last a long time because the fibers are longer and more durable.
Pima Cotton Is Eco-Friendly and Widely Sought After
Pima is usually sought after for bedding materials, but more fashion designers are using it in clothing because it is soft, durable and flexible. The former material drapes well and lends itself to a multitude of uses in the fashion industry. It’s also lightweight, yet still warm and it takes color well.
Organic material limits its environmental impact by being grown without fertilizers or pesticides. The crop is extremely sustainable when it’s consciously grown to reduce its impact on the environment.
If you’re looking for replacement parts for your harvester, contact Certi-Pik, USA for a large selection of specialty items and fabricated parts designed to get you back in the field instead of waiting for repairs.
The United States is the world’s leading cotton exporter. In 2017, over 20 million bales were produced in the United States accounting for over $7 billion to the economy. China and India together produce about 50% of the world’s fiber, but much of the material stays in their countries for manufacturing. The industry in the United States generates about 250,000 jobs and accounts for over $25 billion in the economy annually. It’s not only farming cotton but the textile industry as a whole.
When is Cotton Harvested?
Generally, it is planted between March and June each year. The farther south you go, the earlier the planting season. The main thing is to wait until the danger of frost has passed. In Texas, harvesting can occur as early as June, but most is harvested from August through October. It generally takes 150 to 200 days for the bolls to mature after planting.
Where is Cotton Grown in the United States?
The plant requires a tropical or subtropical climate. The plants don’t do well in places that are extremely wet or very dry. Soil temperature must reach at least 60 F or higher for the seeds to germinate. In the United States, the southern region grows the most. California, New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia are the primary suppliers to the market, followed by Arkansas, North & South Carolina, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Since the mid-20th century, production has become more competitive, with technology and education improving how farmers do business and export. Many organizations support over 18,000 farms across the United States through lobbying and purchasing power to ensure farmers get the best prices from their crops. Pickers and harvesters have made production more lucrative by reducing labor costs.
Which State Produces the Most Cotton?
The National Cotton Council and USDA report that 12.19 million acres of land in the United States are dedicated to plantings in 2020. Upland area accounts for 11.99 million acres, while Pima or extra-long-staple producers planted 195,000 acres. Although these figures are less than the 2019 figure, the United States is still a major player in the industry.
Texas produces about 42% of the material in the United States, followed by Georgia, which produced about 18%. The southeastern belt produces the Upland variety, a generic variety that is used to make denim, flannel fibers, or other clothes, but the entire plant is used. The linters or the short fuzz of the seed is used in making plastics. Cotton-seed oil is made from the seeds. The hulls and meal that are leftover after processing the oil is made into fertilizer or animal feed. The stalks of the plant can be plowed into the soil to enrich it.
The material is Texas’ main cash crop because eight different regions in the state have suitable growing conditions. It’s estimated that there are over 9,000 square miles of fields in Texas. In Mississippi, over one million acres are dedicated to farming. The state has practically eradicated boll weevils. Georgia’s leading crop is the same because its soil conditions are suitable to the crop. It does get high rainfall, but the soil doesn’t hold the water. This is an ideal condition to grow.
The southwestern regions that produce it, California, New Mexico, and Arizona, produce a type known as Pima, or extra-long staple. Pima is finer and more expensive. It must be harvested by hand to protect the fibers, which are a one-half inch longer or more than Upland fibers. Pima is known for producing luxurious bedding, but many fashion designers are incorporating Pima into their clothing designs because it is such a strong fiber while still being soft and flexible.
Although Texas is America’s largest producer, it comes nowhere close to the amount produced in China and India. From 2010 to 2012, Texas produced an average of 5.5 million bales. Over the same time frame, China produced 33 million bales and India produced 26.8 million bales. About 35% of the material produced in the United States stays in the country to be used by domestic textile mills and factories.
How Much Does a Single Bale Weigh?
A single bale weighs 500 pounds. From that bale, you can make:
- 215 pairs of jeans, or
- 690 terry bath towels, or
- 1,256 pillowcases, or
- 6,436 pairs of underwear, or
- 313,600 $100 bills, or
- 680,000 cotton balls
Material is stored in a module that holds 13 to 15 bales. This module protects it against the weather until the material can be ginned.
We Stock Cotton Picker Parts
Harvesting equipment is vital to farmers who produce this important crop. We stock a large selection of high-quality replacement parts for pickers. Contact us for more information.
The Case IH Module Express is a high-performance cotton picker designed to help you streamline the harvest process while reducing equipment and labor investment. This machine picks cotton at great efficiency and builds beginner-friendly modules at the same time, effectively ensuring you spend less time in the fields. Despite the impressive features that the harvesting equipment offers, it is important to be sure it will meet your needs before investing in one. Here is some information to help you:
What are the Engine Specs?
The Case IH Module Express comes with an 8.7-liter, six-cylinder FPT engine. This powerful engine has a rated horsepower of 400 and capable of churning out to 415 horsepower. There is also a high output alternator that delivers 185 amps so that there is sufficient charge to power the different functions of the picker. The engine is paired with a three-range hydrostatic transmission and drive system. These two support a picking speed of 4.2 mph in first gear, a scrapping speed of 5.2 mph in second gear, and a transport speed of 16.5 mph.
What are the Harvesting Specs?
This cotton harvesting equipment features six-row units and automatic electronic height sensing. Each row-unit has two drums; one on each side of the row and 12 bars per drum. Further, there are 18 spindles per bar and 432 spindles per row unit, bringing the total to 2,592 spindles per machine. In addition, the equipment covers narrow row spacings at 30, 32, and 34 inches and wide row spacings at 36, 38, and 40 inches. All of these specifications ensure maximum efficiency when picking cotton.
How Much Does a Used Unit Cost?
While owning a harvester will offer great convenience, buying the equipment is a huge investment. If you do not have enough money to pay for a new one upfront, you can consider buying a used one. A used unit will cost anything from $120,000 to $425,000. The price will depend on factors like the year of manufacture, the machine’s condition, separator hours, and engine hours.
What’s the Price of a Brand New One?
A brand new
Module Express will be significantly more expensive than a used one, with prices starting at $500,000. While the price tag may be hefty, you will be sure that the model comes with the latest technology. Depending on the dealer you choose, you may also access financing at a friendly interest rate. The equipment will come with a warranty, allowing you to focus on your harvesting operation in the knowledge that you will enjoy dependable performance.
How Large is the Accumulator?
The six-row wide picker accumulator lets you pick more per hour, per day and per harvesting season. The high-volume accumulator makes it possible to process more material as it is being harvested. This not only helps you spend less time in the fields but also reduces your harvesting costs. The six rows of the accumulator can be in narrow spacings of 30, 32, and 34 inches or wide spacings of 36, 38, and 40 inches.
What’s the Average Baler Amount Per Roll?
The rectangular bale has a volume of 1,024 cubic feet. It produces modules that measure 8 X 8 X 16 feet, each weighing between 4,000 and 10,000 pounds. The large modules are easy to load and transport to the sides of the field, a factor that makes work easier and reduces your labor costs. A single bale can produce between 2.5 and 6.5 standard cotton bales.
What Years are This Model Available in?
When you make the decision to buy this picker, you will have a number of options to choose from in terms of years of manufacture. The Case IH Module Express is available in models from 2011 to 2020. Each subsequent model has significant improvements over its predecessor, with the 2020 model offering the latest technology and features. However, subsequent models are also costlier than the previous ones. You will have to look at the model that fits your needs and budget.
Where Can I Buy Replacement Parts?
When you are looking for replacement components for damaged or worn-out components, you can choose either original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts.
OEM Parts
When you buy OEM parts, you can be sure of quality and compatibility. OEM replacement parts can be purchased directly from the manufacturer, Case IH.
Aftermarket Parts
Provided you choose a reliable supplier,
aftermarket parts will deliver the same quality as OEM parts at a fraction of the cost. Certi-Pik, USA, stocks a wide range of aftermarket parts for this picker.
How Much do Replacement Parts Cost?
Cost is an important consideration when it comes to buying replacement parts. Generally, the cost of replacement parts can reach into the thousands. However, this will depend on the specific components you are looking for. Whether you want to buy OEM or aftermarket parts, you should never compromise on quality in an attempt to save money. Quality parts will keep your machine functioning optimally and save you money in the long run.
Where Can I Buy a New Model?
A new model can be purchased through the company’s licensed dealers. One of the benefits of buying from a dealer is that there will be minimal repairs, and the machine will come with a warranty. The dealership may also offer financing at friendly rates, making it easier for you to own the equipment. Simply visit the manufacturer’s website, select your region, and begin building your new piece of equipment.
Where Can I Buy a Used Model?
Although used models will be cheaper, buying them requires that you do due diligence. With the huge investment that goes into purchasing the equipment, you will want to be sure that it is in good condition. This will help you avoid the costs and headaches associated with frequent repairs and breakdowns. Some of the authorized dealers may also sell used models. In addition, you can consider resale sites such as TractorHouse that are dedicated to this.
What is the Charge Per Acre?
Harvesting is one of the critical and costly operations when it comes to cotton production. When farmers are looking for harvesting equipment, they usually have the option to buy or hire the machines. Each of the options has its advantages and disadvantages. When comparing the cost of the two, you should use this formula:
Breakeven acres = Total annual harvest equipment fixed costs/ Custom rate/ acre – Variable cost/acre
Generally, a producer who owns harvesting equipment will have variable costs of $22.31 per acre. On the other hand, a farmer who hires a custom harvester will spend around $81.26 per acre. It is no wonder that most producers who can afford choose to buy the equipment.
What is the Max Row Unit Sync Speed?
This is a machine that takes performance to a whole new level. With a maximum row-unit sync speed of 5.2 miles per hour, the picker allows you to harvest quickly without compromising picking efficiency. At this speed, the vehicle ground speed, bars, and spindles will be well-synchronized to ensure high performance and maximum output.
What’s the Peak Horsepower?
This model features a powerful Case IH FPT 8.7-liter engine and three-range hydrostatic transmission. With these specifications, the picker has a peak engine horsepower of 400 hp. This power is enough not only to finish the harvesting process quickly but also to enable the machine to work under tough field conditions. All-day power lets you cover large fields in a relatively short period of time, effectively delivering impressive cost-per-acre harvest savings.
What is Case IH’s Automatic Intelligent Auger Packing System?
This is an advanced system of
sensors and augers in the bale-building chamber that moves material automatically while the bale is being compressed. The system delivers consistent, rectangular modules that endure exposure to the weather and can be ginned excellently. This system is designed to improve efficiency and save you time during the harvesting process, effectively making your operations seamless.
What are the Bale Dimensions?
Each of the rectangular modules that the machine creates measures 8 X 8 X 16 feet. The large size of the modules makes it possible to manage harvests from large fields. Since you will end up with fewer modules after harvesting, it will also be easy to load and transport material from different fields to a central location.
What is the Bale Weight?
Each of the modules that the machine creates weighs between 4,000 pounds and 10,000 pounds. Considering the power and efficiency of the harvesting equipment, this weight allows you to load and transport the harvested product conveniently. The modules also produce a reasonable number of standard bales.
What are Extenda-Wear Plus Spindles?
Extenda-Wear Plus spindles have a superior barb pattern for increased picking efficiency and 90-micron chrome thickness that delivers maximum durability. This keeps the spindles working even under difficult conditions and allows you to harvest your field all day, day after day and season after season.
These spindles are meant to save you time and enhance profitability.
How Many Barbs Does it Have?
The barb pattern on the Extenda-Wear Plus spindles features three rows of fourteen barbs. The first three barbs in every row are at a 30-degree angle to ensure picking efficiency and allow the material to move easily off the spindle when doffing. The last 11 barbs are at a 45-degree angle, a factor that further improves picking efficiency.
Is it Front or Rear-Wheel Drive?
This model has a 4WD system, meaning that all the four wheels are supplied with power from the transmission. Since the front wheels are also supplied with power, they help the rear ones in pulling the machine forward. This ensures that the rear wheels have better traction, leading to less spillage and improved performance. The 4WD system is one of the reasons why this model can work under difficult conditions.
Although the Module Express is a high-quality and durable picker, you will need to replace some of its components at one point or the other. In order to enjoy the same level of performance and reliability that you are used to, you should buy the right replacement parts for this specific model. At Certi-Pik, USA, we sell quality aftermarket parts at affordable prices. Contact us today to place your order.
