Distribution of benzene and formaldehyde in tractor cabin: Effects of components, ventilation conditions, and vent positions

Abstract

Tractor cabin is a relatively closed microenvironment in which operator is exposed to various pollutants that can adversely affect human health. In this study, the distribution of benzene and formaldehyde inside tractor cabin was investigated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method and verifying its effectiveness with field measurements. The effects of pollution source, ventilation, and vent position on the distribution of pollutants were discussed by using the validated CFD model. The results indicated that the areas with high concentration of pollutants are mostly distributed in the corners, and the ceiling contributes the most to its emission. The concentration difference of benzene and formaldehyde in the driver’s breathing area can reach a maximum of 20% by adjusting the air supply angle. It can also be reduced by 3.9% and 4.3% for every 1 m s−1 increase in air supply speed when the airflow angle emitted from the vent was 90°. In the common vent locations, the vent arranged on the front ceiling has the best pollutant reduction effect. This study provided a reliable CFD simulation method for benzene and formaldehyde distribution, offered a theoretical basis for the selection of ventilation conditions and the design of internal layout in tractor cabins for improving air quality. It also suggested that then environment and air quality of non-road mobile machinery cabs should be paid more attention in the future.