Study on machine for processing and preparing the soil for sowing potatoes on ridges

The technologies used to prepare the soil for sowing potatoes on ridges, consisting of numerous soil preparation operations, lead to loss of moisture, prolonging the sowing period and increasing operating costs. The aim of the research is to develop a machine for processing and preparing the soil for sowing potatoes on ridges. The authors have developed a technology for preparing fields for sowing potatoes on ridges and a machine for its implementation. The basic principles and methods of classical mechanics, mathematical analysis and statistics were used in this study. On the basis of multifactorial experiments, the following parameters are justified: the angle of inclination of the ploughshare blade in the range of 6-70, the height and length of the guiding knife in the range of 94-110 mm and 107.2-136 mm, respectively. The main parameters of the working bodies of the machine and its technical characteristics are given. The results of the tests have established that the proposed machine for preparing the soil for sowing on the ridges reliably performs the specified technological process and its performance indicators fully meet the requirements. The use of the machine provides a reduction in operating costs for processing 1 hectare of area in comparison with the technical means used by 33.8 %