Optimization of the Angle of Frog in Mouldboard Tillage Operations in Sandy Clay Soil

Abstract

This paper investigated the effect of three independent variables including: tillage speed (ranges of below 2.5 m/s and between 2.5 m/s and 5 m/s), tillage depth (range of 10 cm from 0 cm to 30 cm) and frog angle (30˚, 40˚, and 50˚) on draught forces. The experimental work was completed with determination of the draught forces using an analytical method (Saunders Equation). Numerical Simulation: Discrete Element Method (DEM) was used to verify the results obtained analytically. The results indicated that tillage depth has a stronger influence on the draught forces as compared to the tillage speed. Minimal draught forces can then be achieved through operating at shallow tillage depth and maintaining a frog angle of 30˚. The results showed a variance of ±15.95% to the calculated values supporting DEM as a numerical method capable of predicting draft forces correctly, tillage power optimization and determination of optimal frog angle for the mouldboard plough.