Sugarbeet Injury Within Harvesting and Handling Equipment
ABSTRACT A series of studies were conducted during the fall of 1975, 1976, and 1977 to determine the amount and effect of injury caused in the harvesting and handling of sugarbeets. Damage caused by harvesters and pilers was measured. Several methods for evaluating mechanical damage were used, including measuring respiration and the amount of sucrose and impurities in the root while in storage. A method of visual assessment was developed for this project. Both harvesters and pilers contributed significantly to the problem. Large drops and over-designed cleaning systems contributed most to mechanical damage. Actual mechanical damage caused by harvesting and handling sugarbeets increased sugar loss. Impurities in severely in-jured roots appear to increase during storage.