Analysis and design optimization of a frontal combine harvester axle using finite element and experimental methods

JD 955 combine manufactured by Iran Combine Harvester Manufacturing Company was modified. Total weight and the loads applied on front axle of modified combine were increased. The commercial finite element package ANSYS V9.0 was used for the solution of the problem. Based on finite element analysis, redesign of front axle was carried out for increasing mechanical strength, easy manufacturability and cost reduction. Results of static, modal and transient analysis of proposed front axle under loading due to modified combine showed that the proposed model is suitable to install on the modified combine. Results obtained by numerical method were verified experimentally. The strain measurement was carried out using strain gauges. The calculated values of strain by numerical method were in good agreement with experimental data.