Purpose and types of rollers Modern farmers encounter numerous challenges, one of which is the necessity to optimize crop cultivation processes to both enhance yields and safeguard the environment. In this regard, soil rolling emerges as an effective technique for improving soil properties and augmenting yields. For soil rolling procedures, specialized cultivation rollers serve various purposes. Accordingly, they can be categorized into three main types:
- rollers for packing the top layers of soil for shallow sowing
- rollers for packing the deep layers of soil
- rollers for crumbling the soil

The first type of roller mentioned, which compacts the top layers of soil, has a smooth surface. These are used for leveling the field before sowing and planting. Cambridge or ORION rollers are commonly utilized for this purpose, although they are not exclusively used for it. Rollers that compact deeper soil layers consist of narrow rings, with Campbell rollers being a prime example. Soil crumbling rollers are designed for rolling and compacting the soil, with Crosskill rollers fitting into this category. Crosskill rollers are equipped with rings with side projections, effectively crumbling the soil in the seed layer. Cambridge rollers, in contrast, have rings with a smooth, toothed track, making them effective on any type of soil both before and after sowing. Crosskill, Cambridge, ORION, and Campbell rollers are available from the high-class agricultural machinery manufacturer Rolmako. Each of these models can be tailored to meet the individual needs of the customer.

Each cultivation roller has specific applications and is selected based on soil type, weather conditions, and the type of crops to be grown in a given field.

Campbell roller:
- comprises a series of heavy, cast iron rings with sharp edges
- effective in breaking up clods of soil and preparing a smooth soil surface
- performs well in heavy and clay soils

Cambridge roller:
- features characteristic rings (toothed for effective cleaning)
- primarily utilized for crushing and leveling soil post-ploughing
- efficiently crushes clods and prepares soil for sowing
- suitable for various soil types
- applicable before and after sowing

Crosskill roller:
- comprises a series of cast iron discs with serrated edges
- is highly effective in breaking up large clods and aerating the soil
- frequently used in meadow and pasture cultivation, as well as soil preparation for root crops

Prismatic roller:
- has the form of prismatic rings, which may feature various profiles (e.g., star, wedge)
- utilized for intensive clod crushing and soil compaction
- effective in light and medium-heavy soils
- applicable post-harvest for enhanced decomposition of crop residues

Cambridge and ORION rollers in field preparation for sowing
The Cambridge roller is a versatile machine suitable for all soil types. Its design enables efficient operation both pre- and post-sowing. The alternating flat discs and toothed rings effectively compact deeper soil layers. The Cambridge roller can be integrated with other Rolmako machines equipped with compatible couplings, such as the U684 compact seedbed cultivator, the VibroSTAR pre-sowing cultivator, or the U693 disc harrow. This approach reduces the number of field passes, saving both time and money. A notable advantage is its self-cleaning elements, making it ideal for damp soil conditions. Additionally, the ORION roller is effective in both cultivation and grassland applications. It stimulates grass tillering, aids in distributing post-harvest residue, and works well with cutting knife rollers for stubbles and incorporating catch crops into the soil. For those seeking reliable machines, Rolmako offers rollers designed for field leveling and clod breaking, featuring a hydraulic-mechanical system for unfolding and folding. These can be equipped with Cambridge, Crosskill, Campbell, ORION rings, or fully hydraulic Cambridge/ORION rollers.

Campbell and Crosskill - specialized task rollers
Campbell rollers consist of narrow wedge-shaped rings ideal for crushing clods. Their substantial diameter of 700 mm allows effective soil engagement without requiring excessive pulling force. In contrast, Crosskill rollers are composed of a series of rings with a smaller diameter (400 to 500 mm) and visible side projections that aid in clod crushing and field surface leveling. For compact soils with dense, lumpy terrain, Crosskill rollers are highly effective. Post-Crosskill roller application, the soil is loosened, crumbled, and leveled. A significant advantage of both rollers is their complementary functionality. Where the Campbell roller struggles with lumpy soil, the Crosskill roller excels. The combination of these rollers, such as in the U684 compact tillage unit, forms a tandem for specialized tasks, with the Crosskill roller and Campbell roller connected to the coupler. Additionally, Rolmako tillage rollers offer versatile options, including rear suspension systems and front linkage combinations with levelers, discs, tines, or other tools.

Summary
Selecting appropriate cultivation rollers is critical for every farmer's success. The right rollers are essential for successful cultivation. Enhancing soil structure, reducing erosion, controlling weeds, and optimizing soil moisture are some factors influenced by sustainable land management practices. Cambridge rollers, prismatic ORION, Campbell, and Crosskill are agricultural tools that prepare fields for sowing. Each tool improves soil condition, leading to better plant emergence and growth. Although choosing the right rollers can be challenging, the investment is worthwhile. It is advisable to rely on reputable manufacturers like Rolmako, known for their experience and wide range of reliable solutions for modern farmers.