Prediction of Soil Reaction Force at Specific Positions on a Moldboard Plow Surface

Abstract

Using the developed mathematical model, approximate stress distribution on moldboard portion could be calculated separately in both tangential and normal directions. The model was investigated by the use of the designed force transducer which measured three components of force simultaneously. Also, thickness of soil slice was investigated empirically. The sum of the theoretical stress was compared with that obtained by actual plowing experiments performed in the laboratory. It was concluded that stress distribution on the moldboard was relatively not sensitive to the change of plowing speed within experimental range. However, for higher speed, the tangential component showed a pronounced increase due to the increase of adhesion.