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Ride vibration on tractor-implement system
1Agricultural Energy and Power Division, Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal, India. crmehta@ciae.mp.nic.in
Applied Ergonomics
|June 16, 2000
Summary
Tractor ride vibrations increase with speed, posing health risks like deafness and spinal issues. Operator exposure should be limited to 2.5 hours during ploughing and harrowing to prevent injury.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Engineering
- Occupational Health and Safety
Background:
- India leads global tractor manufacturing, with tractors crucial for farming and transport.
- Tractor vibrations are linked to operator health issues, including deafness and spinal disorders.
- The impact of tractor implements on ride quality in India is not well-understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify ride vibration in a low-horsepower tractor-implement system.
- To assess vibration levels at the operator-seat interface under various operating conditions.
Main Methods:
- Vibration measurements were taken along longitudinal, lateral, and vertical axes.
- Data were collected under different operating conditions, including varying forward speeds.
- Vibration levels were evaluated against ISO 2631/1 (1985) and BS 6841 (1987) standards.
Main Results:
- Acceleration levels generally increased with forward travel speed.
- No significant difference in vibration was found between tar-macadam and farm roads during transport.
- Measured vibration levels were assessed against international standards.
Conclusions:
- Tractor operator exposure should not exceed 2.5 hours for ploughing and harrowing.
- Extended exposure can lead to severe discomfort, pain, and injury.
- Understanding and mitigating tractor vibrations is crucial for operator health.
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