Application of industrial tires in gricultural Machinery

Abstract

Different tire models are applied in agricultural mobility, but the impacts on the ground are not completely known. Some models of industrial tires, with applications in construction machines, could meet the agricultural demand since there is a shortage offer exclusive models for agriculture. The aim of this research was to analyze in a Fixed Tire Testing Unit (FTTU), under controlled conditions, the performance of two tire types, the first for agricultural construction and the second for industrial construction on two different agricultural soils (two surfaces). The characteristics of the tires evaluated were: 620/75R26 (agricultural tire) and 23.5-25 (industrial tire). The soil used to simulate the agricultural surface were: Red Yellow Latosol and the Distroferric Red Nitosol, chosen because they are representative of agricultural areas in Brazil. The research response variables were soil penetration resistance (Cone Index), deformation caused by tires, real and total contact area (obtained through 3D scanner systems of the wheel-ground interaction area). The load applied to the wheelsets was 50.5kN, indicated as the maximum load on these models in field applications, and the tire inflation pressure was 331kPa. The results showed that, regardless type surface (soil), the agricultural tire had superior performance, defined by impression greater contact areas and lower soil resistance penetration (Cone Index). This study, opens new research fronts, relating the rolling resistance provided by tires and the energy consumption of each technology. The industrial tire has a smaller total contact area and provides stress in subsoil, reaching critical compaction levels for the crops root development, therefore, they are not recommended for agricultural application.