The purpose of this work (analysis of the importance of soil in the choice of tractors for energy-intensive agricultural work) is to highlight the crucial relationship between the physical properties of the soil and the energy efficiency of agricultural mechanization. Close knowledge of soils involves researching unitary complexes of morphological characters - aspects of color, constitution and structure of the soil profile. The importance of soil in the choice and use of tractors for energy-intensive agricultural work is fundamental and translates directly into energy efficiency, equipment performance, and environmental protection. To link soil to crop production, it is necessary to know the ecological characteristics of the soil type, its natural fertility and recommendations for its use, i.e.: the assortment of crops; soil work; fertilizers; improvement works. These are the minimum data necessary to be known for the judicious use of soil. All agricultural work that is performed mechanized is carried out depending on the physical and mechanical properties of the soil. The characteristics of the work are also determined depending on the genetic horizons of the soil profiles. The resistance of the soil to work is the greatest factor influencing fuel consumption. On heavy (clayey) or compacted soils, the tractor has to exert a much greater tractive effort to pull the implement (e.g. plough), resulting in a considerably higher specific fuel consumption per hectare. Wet or poorly structured soils increase the wheel slip coefficient. Excessive slip means energy (fuel) is wasted instead of being transferred as traction force. Choosing the correct tyre pressure and running system for the type of soil is crucial to keeping slip at an optimal level (usually between 8% and 15%).

soil, tractor, agricultural work, soil strength

agronomy

Presentation: poster