Abstract: A steam generator is controlled for applying steam for re-hydrating dry crop during the baling process so as to raise the temperature of the crop being treated with steam by an amount which is within a desired range known to result in bales of crop of good quality.

Abstract: A direct-fired steam generator used for supplying steam for re-hydrating dry crop during baling is controlled so as to produce a desired constant steam temperature output by collecting data from which the heat output of the steam generator can be calculated and using this calculation together with the difference between the actual steam temperature and the desired steam temperature to control the amount of process water sent to the steam generator in order to correct any error in steam temperature. Steam temperature is measured in either one of the steam injection manifolds or in an injection tube coupled to an injection manifold so as to be close to the point of application of the steam to the crop.

Abstract: Components of a crop re-hydration system are advantageously carried on free space of a large square baler. Specifically, a direct-fired steam generator is mounted at a rear location on the baler so as not to transfer heat to a hydraulic fluid supply tank located at a forward location on the baler. Further, the combustion chamber of the steam generator is coupled to a forwardly extending main steam conduit having a length sufficient for ensuring that the water injected into the combustion chamber is thoroughly mixed with hot combustion gases and changed to steam prior to reaching a steam distribution manifold located at a forward end of the baler. A combustion air intake filter is positioned in a relatively clean zone at an elevated location at the rear of the baler. Water tanks are mounted closely adjacent ground wheel axles of the baler so that the weight of the water does not unduly load the baler frame.

Abstract: A direct-fired steam generator body defines a combustion chamber and having an exhaust outlet. A mixing chamber is provided for receiving the exhaust gases from the combustion chamber. A flange joint between an elbow forming part of the mixing chamber and the end of the steam generator body defining the exhaust outlet is designed so as to be cooled by process water coupled to the joint by an injection port provided in one of the flanges.

Abstract: A direct-fired, propane powered steam generator is provided with a carburetor, which receives vaporized propane from a converter arrangement which converts liquid propane to vapor, receives pressurized air and feeds a mixture of vaporized propane and air into the combustion chamber of the steam generator. The amount of air delivered to the carburetor is variable, with the amount of vaporized propane entering the carburetor being determined by the position of a metering valve which varies in accordance with the amount of air passing through the carburetor. The converter arrangement receives liquid propane and is coupled to process water heated in the water jackets of the combustion chamber and adjacent structure, the converter arrangement being designed so that heat from the water is transferred for effecting vaporization of the liquid propane.

Abstract: A mower has a pair of cutter heads which are pivotally supported by respective cantilever beams. The cantilever beams are pivotally coupled with a hitch assembly, which in turn is coupled with a traction unit via two lower lift arms and a floatable top link. The floatable top link allows the hitch assembly to float relative to the traction unit during transport. A hydraulic cylinder interconnected between the cantilever beams pivots the beams between a transport position and a working position. Stops on the hitch assembly limit pivotal movement of the beams relative to the hitch assembly.

Abstract: A mower has a pair of cutter heads which are pivotally supported by respective cantilever beams. The cantilever beams are pivotally coupled with a hitch assembly, which in turn is coupled with a traction unit via two lower lift arms and a floatable top link. The floatable top link allows the hitch assembly to float relative to the traction unit during transport. A hydraulic cylinder interconnected between the cantilever beams pivots the beams between a transport position and a working position. Stops on the hitch assembly limit pivotal movement of the beams relative to the hitch assembly.