Analysis and optimization of the spin beam in the CCA-5000 Cuban sugarcane harvester

A linear dynamic study of the tensional status of the unloading conveyor's spin beam in the new model CCA-5000 Cuban sugarcane harvester is carried out. The dynamic coefficients were determined using a strain gauge experimental evaluation of the KTP-23 harvester, which is a similar model in structure to the CCA-5000. A finite elements analysis is used to obtain the safety distribution factor and the tensions in the beam for different load combinations linked to a dynamic variation curve of the loads. Aiming to verify the presence or not of large amplitudes on the system oscillations caused by the resonance phenomenon, an analysis of the frequency modes for each load status is conducted, and the results are compared with the terrain irregularities frequencies on which the harvester moves. Finally, taking into account the previous results, the shape of the beam is optimized in order to decrease its steel volume.