Introduction
Over the years, revolutionary advancements have been instigated in the tractor control systems’ field. These changes are primarily attributed to integrating various hydraulic inventions in the tipping trailer, braking system, implementing control structure, and steering to enhance this machinery’s optimum functionality. Hydraulic flow and pressure can be translated to motion and forces that enhance a tractor’s capacity to execute tasks that operators cannot perform manually or physically (Gannon, 2017). This paper provides a comprehensive discussion of tractor hydraulics and highlights the benefits of this particular technology.
Discussion
Types of Hydraulic System
There are two forms of hydraulic systems: the open- and closed-center structures. The latter is typical in modern-day farm equipment; this includes most tractor models. When in neutral, this system’s closed center valve obstructs oil flow from the pump. This fluid travels to an accumulator, which typically stores it under pressure. The valves also block fluid flow via the center when the hydraulic is in the aforementioned state. A variable flow pump also halts its operation following the closure of the valve. Open hydraulic structures were commonly used in most of the preliminary tractors. When in neutral, this system’s open-center valves link all lines back to the reservoir, directly bypassing the pump, which is always in operation, fostering the constant flow of oil without accumulating pressure. Valves also allow the flow of fluid through the center and into the reservoir during this particular.
Components of the Tractor’s Hydraulic System
Reservoir
Hydraulic oil, particularly non-pressurized fluid, is usually stored in the reservoir. According to Moinfar and Shahgholi (2018), reservoirs are usually vented towards the atmosphere to acclimatize the changing levels of oil. The air vent is fitted with filters to impede the entry of dust or dirt into the reservoir. The reservoir’s metallic walls enhance the cooling process of the fluid by improving the outflow of heat. The decreased pressure within this structure also gives room for dissolved or trapped air to escape from the hydraulic fluid. A sufficient surface area is also essential to foster the dispersal of heat.
Lines Fittings and Hoses
JIC and NPTF fittings prevent hydraulic components’ port leakage. NPTF taper pipe threads hinder seepage by using the male-to-female resistance thread taper. On the other hand, JICs sue O-ring (Moinfar & Shahgholi, 2018). The brake hydraulic system’s components are usually joined using hoses and lines. The latter connects the hydraulic system’s stationary parts while hoses consolidate in motion. The hose, tubing, or pipe’s size is crucial (Moinfar & Shahgholi, 2018). If the hose’s size is minimal, the flow of oil increases rapidly, generating heat and causing the fluid to lose power. The cost and time for installing a large hose, on the other hand, can be too high.
Pumps
The hydraulic pump plays a crucial role in enhancing fluid transmission from the reservoir and towards the hydraulic system. This process elevates the fluid’s energy level by triggering significant surges in its pressure. A one-phase pump typically has a single flow rate and one maximal pressure. These pumps are usually attached to the PTO shaft or crankshaft on a farm tractor. These pumps are often fitted on manual loaders and backhoes. On the other hand, a two-step pump first generates high fluid volumes by enhancing the cylinder’s rapid in-and-out movements. In case of any form of resistance, an additional gear set is used to create high pressure for splitting and lifting. Nonetheless, the fluid’s volume will reduce significantly during this phase.
Valves and Motor
Examples of valves fitted in the hydraulic system of a tractor include the flow, pressure, and direction control valve. They function by stopping or impeding liquid or pressure flow and controlling the quantity, pressure, and direction of flow. The motor is located within the pump’s power source, i.e., the cylinder. The fluid with high-pressure levels exerts its action on the piston and rod located within the hydraulic cylinder (Gosaye et al., 2015). Each cylinder stroke converts or translates the power or pressure of the fluid into mechanical force or work. While the piston and rod extend, the reservoir’s oil levels decrease, and when these two devices retract, the fluid flows back to the reservoir.
Cylinder
The pressure is typically applied or exerted on one region of the piston in single-acting cylinders; thus, mechanical force occurs in a single direction only. The cylinder then assumes its initial position under the load’s weight. Contrarily, pressure may be exerted on both sides of the piston in double-acting cylinders. Consequently, work takes place in either direction. The fixed ends in welded cylinders are usually welded to increase the durability and strength for high-pressure functions. Four rods are typically used to hold tie-rod cylinders together.
The Benefits of the Technology
The instigation of hydraulics triggered significant changes in the agricultural industry, especially concerning the manner and method of production. The adoption of this technology has triggered substantial reductions in the level of manual power or effort needed to perform farm-related activities both in terms of work animals and workers (“How Hydraulics Transformed,” 2019). The tractor has also been effective in decreasing the risks associated with farm-related injuries by minimizing the number of hours individuals spend working in agricultural fields. This invention has also helped restrict the downtime rate amid agricultural operations. Furthermore, it has been crucial in promoting personal and overall productivity and efficiency during practice.
Conclusion
Significant advancements in agricultural engineering, particularly in tractor hydraulics, have triggered farm-related practices’ efficacy and efficiency. The tractor hydraulic system has several components, including the reservoir, pump, and motor. Hydraulics foster a tractor operator’s capacity to execute tasks that demand substantial effort with an electrical switch flip or simple lever push, which, in turn, actuates the hydraulic circuit. Contemporary farming integrates the use of hydraulics for operations that were initially controlled by mechanical means.
References
Gannon, M. (2017). Three key priorities for successful agricultural hydraulic design. Mobile Hydraulic.
Gosaye, C., Mengiste, Z., & Hailu, A. (2015). Evaluation of the compatibility of tractors and implements at Tendaho Sugar Estate. ARPN Journal of Science and Technology, 5(10), 476–483. Web.
How hydraulics transformed the agriculture industry (2019,). Metro Hydraulic Jack Co.
Moinfar, A. M., & Shahgholi, G. (2018). Dimensional analysis of the tractor tractive efficiency parameters. Acta Technologica Agriculturae, 21(3), 94–99.