Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Year: 2010
Volume: 5
Issue: 2
Page No. 91 - 95

Soil-Tool Interaction Modeling of Parameters of Soil Profile Produced by Tillage Tools

Authors : S.I. Manuwa and M.O. Ogunlami

Abstract: Published data are scarce on soil bin experimentations and the design of soil engaging implements in Nigeria. In this study, three different model tillage blades Rectangular Flat Blade (REFB), Semi-Circular Flat Blade (SCFB) and Semi-Circular Concave Blade (SCCB) were considered. The blades each 25 cm wide and 12 cm height were tested in an indoor soil bin located in the Department of Agricultural Engineering at The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. The experimental soil was Igbokoda loamy sand soil. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the draught requirements of the tillage blades and to evaluate and model the parameters of the soil profile produced under different operating conditions. The effects of tool shape, forward speed, rake angles (30 and 45°) and depth (50-150 mm) on draught force and soil disturbance were tested and evaluated. Results showed that draught increased with an increasing rate with depth of blade. Draught also increased with rake angle. The SCFB had the highest draught (450 N) followed by REFB while SCCB had the least draught (280 N). Draught force varied quadratically with tillage depth. The relationship was developed from multiple regression analysis with coefficient of determination >0.9990. Graphical representations of the relationships are also presented for the treatments considered. Soil profile patterns measured by a profilometer was analyzed using the following parameters maximum Width of Soil Throw (TDW), maximum Width of soil cut (Wfs), Ridge-to-Ridge Distance (RRD), height of ridge (hr), furrow depth (df) and tool width (w) were analyzed by multiple regression analysis. Generally, parameters of soil profile increased with increase in tool width and rake angle. The TDW was highest for SCFB followed by SCCB while REFB had the least value. The soil profile parameters were modeled for prediction purposes using regression analysis. The study provides relevant data in the design of soil engaging tools and sustainable crop production.

How to cite this article:

S.I. Manuwa and M.O. Ogunlami, 2010. Soil-Tool Interaction Modeling of Parameters of Soil Profile Produced by Tillage Tools. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 5: 91-95.

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