forage harvester

A forage harvester, also known as a field chopper, is a type of agricultural machine used for harvesting crops like grass, legumes, and corn (maize). These machines are essential for preparing crops for silage, a process where the harvested material is cut and chopped to allow for tight packing in silos, promoting anaerobic fermentation and preservation.123

Forage harvesters can cut crops directly in the field or pick up and chop windrows that have already been cut and raked. This equipment is part of a broader category of harvesting machinery, with designs varying widely depending on the specific crop being harvested.24