Modification of a two-wheel tractor as a versatile power machine for post disaster recovery programs

Abstract

Abstract In the present study two-wheel tractor is modified to use it as a versatile power machine for the post disaster recovery programs with its special features including simplicity, affordability, multiple means of power take off for electricity generation, water pumping, land preparation and ability to drive or pull a considerable load over any ground conditions. Modification process included incorporation of an alternator with a power transmission system while improving the performance of the tractor. Three-phase alternator was selected with a capacity of 7.5 kW and rated line voltage, phase voltage and frequency are 400 V, 230 V and 50 Hz respectively. Performance testing was carried out using a variable load system with 200 W intervals. Frequency was maintained at 50 Hz by operating the tractor at constant engine speed. Phase current, voltage and fuel consumption over the different load conditions were tested. Further the increment of the drawbar pull after modification of the tractor was also tested. Results revealed that 7.5 kW alternator can be coupled to a two-wheel tractor (GN 12) with a power rage of 9.12 kW while keeping the stability under normal running condition. The efficiency of the established power transmission system was 77.06 % at the maximum stable power output of the alternator. Maximum fuel consumption at the maximum stable power output was 1.97 L/h. Further this modification increased the drawbar pull by 11.98 %, could be useful in terms of transportation over the different ground conditions during the post disaster situations. Therefore modified tractor can be used as a self-driven, mobile and versatile power machine for the post disaster recovery and reconstruction process in the developing countries.