Combining simulations and field experiments: Effects of subsoiling angle and tillage depth on soil structure and energy requirements

Abstract

The study investigates the impact of subsoiling on soil structure and energy requirements, focusing on the angle of the subsoiler and the depth of tillage. Combines discrete element analysis and field experiments, various parameters related to soil structure and machinery performance were analysed. These parameters include simulation traction, energy and velocity of soil particles, soil cone index, soil surface flatness, fuel consumption, traction force, and slip rate during the field experiment. The result showed that the soil cone index reduction was influenced by both the subsoiling angle and tillage depth. Traction resistance increased with greater tillage depth and varies based on soil texture and subsoiler angle. Furthermore, fuel consumption during the subsoiling is significantly affected by the chosen tillage depth and subsoiling angle. The analysis also reveals that slip rate was influenced by soil texture, tillage depth, and subsoiler angle. However, no significant difference in soil surface flatness was observed across most tillage depths and working angles after the tillage operation. Significant correlations were observed between simulation traction with field experiment traction, simulation soil particle energy with simulation traction, and fuel consumption with field experiment traction, at a significance level of 0.05. By considering the angle of the subsoiler and the depth of tillage, practitioners can optimise soil structure, energy consumption, and machinery performance, thereby promoting sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.