Justification of Optimal Operating Parameters of the Field Cultivator Tool through Determining Traction Resistance

Abstract

Introduction. The technological operation of soil tillage is an energy-intensive preparatory operation. The traction resistance of tillage units has a direct impact on this indicator. Aim of the Study. The study is aimed at searching optimal operating parameters for the field cultivator tool through determining the traction resistance created by this tool. Materials and Methods. The study was carried out in the field on an experimental facility using a full factorial experiment technique with a working model based on a three-level design. Results. Through the regression analysis of experimental data, there was obtained a mathematical model that allows determining the optimal operating parameters for the field cultivator tool when performing a technological operation of soil tillage. Discussion and Conclusion. While calculating, it was found that the lowest traction resistance PТ = 0,72 kN created by the tool is for the following values: tillage depth h = 4 cm, crumbling angle of the left-hand and right-hand flat-cutting wings f = 0° and the speed of the tillage unit v = 2,61 m/s. As the optimal operating parameters for a field cultivator tool, determined using the obtained mathematical model, it is recommended to use the crumbling angle of the left-hand and right-hand flat-cutting wings of the working body f = 0°, and the speed of the tillage unit v = 2,91 m/s. Taking into account the recommended optimal operating parameters of the tool, it is possible to calculate the value of the traction resistance index at different tillage depths. The traction resistance will change within the range of 0.79–1.81 kN, when the soil tillage depth changes from 4 to 12 cm. The resulting mathematical model of the traction resistance created by the tool will allow a more accurate approach to the issue of designing agricultural machines.