Structural analysis of a mounted moldboard plow using the finite element simulation method

Abstract

Aim of study: Structural analysis of a mounted moldboard plow to redesign and optimise its frame. Area of study: Shahrekord, Iran Material and methods: In this study, a complete modeling of a three-bottom moldboard plow was conducted in Solid work 2016 and then, plow-soil interaction model developed in Abaqus 2018. The FEM-simulated draft was compared with the draft calculated by the analytical model. Main results: The maximum stress and displacement in chassis were determined under different work conditions. The attachment points of the crossbar to the two-lower links of the three-point hitch, the middle of the bottom standard, the head points of the brace and the attachment point of the mast to the top link of the three-point hitch needed to be redesigned. As a result, higher safety factor ranging 2.5-3 is recommended for the mentioned unsafe places. Research highlights: The obtained results could be used for further studies on the optimization of the moldboard plow frame.