Experimental investigation and justification of the parameters of the separator of potato heap

Abstract

Goal. To justify the rational constructive and kinematic parameters of the new cleaner of potato heap of spiral type based on the results of multi-factor experimental field studies. Methods. Methods of correlation and regression analyses and the methods of construction of nomograms were applied for processing and analysis of experimental research. Results. A new design is developed of a cleaner of potato heap, which consists of 3 console-located drive coils. It provides an active cleaning surface for the dug heap. It is possible to change the angle of the inclination of the cleaning surface to the horizon, which provides a different intensity of separation of impurities and ensures the movement of tubers in the direction of the conveyor belt. That also contributes to a better dispersal of the heap at the working surface of the cleaner, more intensive destruction of soil lumps, and consequently, to improve screening and reduce clogging of the cleaning coils. An experimental study in the production conditions showed that cleaning of potato tubers from impurities was due to the intensive movement of the heap coils of cantilevered cleaning coil springs. Cleaning coil springs rotate not only with a given angular velocity, but at the same time oscillate their console ends due to the deflection of the longitudinal axis under the weight of the heap in the working area of the cleaner. Conclusions. The model of monofactorial experiment is built according to the field experimental studies, statistical processing of the results of which is implemented using Microsoft Excel. Graphic dependencies are built, allowing us to choose rational constructive and kinematic parameters of potato cleaners of spiral type at designing and developing new potato harvesters.