Determining the Parameters of Leveler-Ripper Shanks

Abstract

In order to ensure high-quality sowing and smooth seed germination, the main task in pre-sowing soil preparation is fi eld surface leveling, soil compaction to the required degree and the formation of a mildly mulching layer on the soil surface. For combined implementation of these operations, a leveler-ripper has been designed. (Research Purpose) Determination of cuttingedge angles, the inter-leg length and width of the shanks of a leveler-ripper (Materials and Methods) Theoretical studies were carried out using the methods of higher mathematics and theoretical mechanics. The authors obtained analytical dependences that help determine the rational values of the cutting-edge angle of the shanks and their inter-leg width. (Results and Discussion) It has been shown that the front part of a leveler aligns the unevenness of fi eld surface, and the rear part compacts the soil. At the same time, the lumps located on the soil surface are partially crushed with the shanks and partially pressed into the soil. As a result, a mulching layer about 4-6 centimeters thick is formed. The shank length was taken equal to the sowing depth of cotton seeds. The authors determined the cutting-edge angle of the shanks proceeding from the condition of no soil build-up in front of them and no soil sticking to their working surface. (Conclusions) It has been revealed that to ensure quality soil preparation for sowing with minimal energy consumption, the cutting-edge angle of the shanks of a leveler-ripper should be in the range of 54-66 degrees. Taking into account that a leveler-ripper is used mainly for soil preparation for cotton sowing, and cotton seeds are sealed at a depth of 4-6 centimeters, the shank length can take an average of 5 centimeters. It has been calculated that the inter-leg width should not exceed 10 centimeters.