Optimization of operational parameters for development of tractor operated rotary weeder

Abstract

A study was conducted to optimize the operational parameters viz., forward speed, rotary speed and type of blade for development of a tractor operated rotary weeder. The weeder was designed using computer aided design (CAD) software and prototype was fabricated and operational parameters viz., three forward speeds (2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 km h-1), two rotary speeds (210 and 240 rpm) and three types of blades (L-type, C-type and J-type) were selected to evaluate its performance for weeding in redgram crop in field conditions. The results indicated that the maximum weeding efficiency of 92.5% with a field capacity of 0.42 ha h-1 and fuel consumption of 5.2 l h-1 was recorded with minimum plant damage (3.15%). The field performance of the weeder was found to be better at 2.5 km h-1 with a rotary speed of 210 rpm for L-type blade compared to other types which were selected as optimized conditions for rotary weeder.