PTO Torque and Draft Analyses of an Integrated Tractor-Mounted Implement for Round Ridge Preparation

PurposeResearch on labor-saving of upland cultivation has been more actively conducted in Korea, since the consumption of and interest in local food have increased. The objectives of this study were to investigate characteristics of rotary-base implement for intensive farming and to suggest an operational strategy by analyzing draft (Ph) and power take-off (PTO) torque (Tq) of an integrated implement for round ridge preparation.MethodsA dynamometer and torque meter were installed between a tractor hitch and an attachment to measure Ph and Tq and to analyze performance of the integrated implement.ResultsIncrease in forward speed (SPD), decrease in Ph, and increase in Tq were observed. Rotary tilth depth (DEP) was a major factor in increasing Ph and Tq. In the operation of the integrated implement based on rotavator, the specific draft (SD) tended to decrease but the specific torque (ST) approached to a maximum value as the rotary pitch (p) increased.ConclusionThe optimum p and velocity ratio (lambda) for draft reduction were 36.15 cm/rev and 3.9, respectively for the actual SPD of 4.18 km/h at 540 rpm of PTO rotating speed (RPM). The regression of the rear wheel reaction (Rr) and slip showed a decaying exponential relation. If the Rr is reduced to 27 kN, slip will be properly maintained at 12-15%. Furthermore, the implement could be operated using a category I tractor with a front loader ballast.