Vibration characteristics of a power tiller

Abstract

The vibration characteristics of a power tiller (two-wheel tractor) were studied. Tests were conducted at 1000, 1200, 1400, 1600, 1800, 2000, and 2200 rpm engine speeds in a stationary condition, and at 1000, 1200, 1400, 1600, and 1800 rpm engine speeds during transportation and tillage. Tests during tillage operation were conducted in the Bangkok clay soil. For the measurement of vibration, three semiconductor strain-gauge-type accelerometers, capable of sensing vibration signals in three mutually perpendicular directions, i.e. horizontal, lateral and vertical modes at the same time, were used. Vibration characteristics of the power tiller were found to be quite complex. In general, it was observed that, in any working condition, due to an increase in engine speed of the power tiller, the acceleration and frequency of vibration increased. At the same operating speed and test condition, the intensity of the vibration was the highest in the vertical mode and the lowest in the lateral mode. The maximum vibration intensities were observed during second plowing and the lowest vibration intensities were when stationary on an off-road surface. The vibration intensities, when compared to the ISO standard 2631, were found to exceed the standard during field operations.