Combine Clean Out Procedures

Combine must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected prior to harvesting Identity Preserved (IP) and organic crop.  This is to be done regardless if the grower uses their own equipment or hires a custom combine.  Combine clean-out procedures are as follows:

Ø      Run the combine, engage the separator and vary the RPM speed.

Ø      Disconnect header.

Ø      Remove crop residue under header auger

Ø      Drive combine up on 6-inch blocks on right hand side. Run unloading auger to empty sump

Ø      Shut down combine, set brake and remove key from ignition. Install feeder house safety locks.

Ø      Remove access shields and open the stone trap.

Ø      Clean feeder house at front corners by drum, lift feeder house chain from floor to allow any trapped grain to run out.

Ø      Cylinder may require a tapping on filter plates to assists in removing build up.

Ø      Concave cleaning may require the removing of some filter plates for access.  Shoe augers may be blown out with front panel open

Ø      Clean grain elevator with door open and lower auger panel removed, turn elevator by hand to spill any trapped grain.

Ø      Open tailings elevator door as well as sample door, turn elevator by hand to removed trapped grain.

Ø      Sieves, chaffer and pre cleaners can be removed for cleaning. Clean area by blowing or vacuuming.  Clean grain bin from right to left towards the sump; remove sump covers to allow grain flow out.

Ø      Blow or vacuum the fan area to allow the removal of any trapped grain.

Ø      Some operators harvest 200 feet of crop and deliver as commercial product

Growers should endeavor to harvest their IP crop before the combine is used on other crops.

Grower should detail cleaning procedures used and sign this document to authenticate that they have implemented the clean out procedures.

Equipment used to transfer soybeans must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected prior to transferring IP crops.  This is to be done regardless if grower uses their equipment or hires custom equipment. 

Ø      If possible, grower should try to arrange for conveyance vehicles/equipment that has been used recently to transport clean substances such as grain or food.  It is critical that all grain and meal residue is cleaned from the inside of the truck.  Ideally the truck/hopper should be covered.

Ø      Grower must inspect truck and sign a document to authenticate that the truck/hopper was cleaned prior to loading