Modification and evaluation of Pant-ICAR controlled traffic seed-cum-deep fertilizer applicator for multi-crop seeder-cum-deep placement of fertilizers applicator

Abstract

The current study deals with the modification of Pant-ICAR controlled traffic deep fertilizer applicator-cum-crop seeder as a multi-crop seeder-cum-deep placement of fertilizers applicator for multiple crops (Maize, paddy, soybean, pigeon pea and pea) grown in Uttarakhand.The Pant-ICAR controlled traffic deep fertilizer applicator-cum-crop seeder is converted to a multi-crop seeder-cum-fertilizer applicator.The modified machine was evaluated for maize, paddy, soybean, pigeon pea and pea in the laboratory at two gear ratios (5.73:1 and 6.23:1), four hopper heights (70, 80, 90, 100 and 110 mm) and the location of PVC adjusting fertilizer sleeve (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 mm) with roller type metering mechanism and conical seed tube was used for the study. The adjustable PVC sleeve position was provided for changing the rate for a particular seed and their recommended fertilizer rate. The machine has been modified and the results of the laboratory study are presented in this paper. PVC sleeve was incorporated for more effective height for precise application of fertilizer at a particular setting. The settings to get the desired seed and matching fertilizer rates for different crops were found very user-friendly.