Effects of Transmission Speed Selection on Equipment Performance during Tillage Operations

Precision agriculture (PA) technologies have enabled farmers to collect and utilize field data to formulate improved management decisions. Common PA technologies include guidance systems, yield monitors, and variable-rate technology; however, it also entails equipment performance monitoring. Investigating equipment parameters such as fuel consumption, draft forces, slip, exhaust gas temperature (EGT), and axle torque can be used to improve machine management with the intent to reduce costs. The scope of this research focused on energy intensive operations such as subsoiling which are required to alleviate soil compaction often found in the Southeastern United States. An experiment was performed to investigate the effects of 3 different transmission gear selections on two different subsoiling implements. Three separate gears were chosen to achieve slow, normal, and fast operating speeds. The implements included a Kelley Manufacturing Company (KMC) in-row subsoiler and a Bigham Brothers Paratill™, both in 6 row configurations pulled by a John Deere 8300 MFWD agricultural tractor. Results indicated a 105% increase in fuel consumption rate, a 28% increase in implement draft, and a 255% increase in power between the slow and fast speed for the Paratill™. The KMC showed a 115% increase in fuel consumption rate, a 37% increase in implement draft, and a 283% increase in power between the slow and fast speeds. Energy savings of this nature can lead to improved operational efficiency, money savings for the producer, and reduced emissions as a result of decreased fuel usage.