Plough machine

Types of plough machines

A plough machine, also spelt as plow, is a tool used to dig, turn and remove soil. Farmers use it for various agricultural activities like tilling the land, preparing the seedbed, controlling weeds, and moving soil. Over the years, ploughs have evolved, and they can be grouped into two main categories; based on the source of power used and the design of the plough itself.

• Ploughs based on the source of power: These are the types of ploughs formed based on the kind of power used to plough the land.

Animal-drawn ploughs are traditional ploughs pulled by trained animals like horses, oxen, or mules. They comprise a frame fitted with a ploughshare and are designed for the animal to push or pull during farming activities. Animal-drawn ploughs are common in small-scale farms or in rural areas where modern technology is scarce.

Manually operated ploughs depend on human physical strength to push or pull them across the farmland. Historically, they were made of wood and metal and featured handles for the operator to push them. Modern manually operated ploughs are designed to assist disabled persons and the elderly in carrying out basic farming activities.

Power-driven ploughs use motors or engines to propel themselves while turning the soil. They make it easier to till large land areas within a short period compared to animal-drawn and manual ploughs. Power-driven ploughs include:

• Tractor-mounted ploughs: These are ploughs attached to a tractor using beams or mountings. The tractor provides power and pulls the plough across the field. Farmers use tractor-mounted ploughs for large-scale farming where they need to prepare large areas within a short time.
• Rotary ploughs: These are ploughs with blades mounted on a single axle that rotate horizontally when powered by an engine. They are used for larger-scale livestock and pasture management. Rotary ploughs are ideal for preparing the seedbed in good and marginal soils.
• Chisel ploughs: These ploughs have a frame fitted with vertical shanks resembling a ploughshare. They are used to break up hard, compacted soil layers and improve drainage and aeration. Chisel ploughs are often employed in conservation agriculture practices to minimize soil erosion.

Single ploughs are specialized ploughs commonly used in single-station farms. They are designed to be pulled by a single unit, be it an animal, human, or machine. Single ploughs can be tailored to fit various types of soils and agricultural practices. Depending on the goal in mind, users can choose to go with a single furrow conventional plough or a single furrow contour plough.

Multiple ploughs are known for their high efficiency and productivity. They are designed to be pulled by tractors in a series and can be used in large-scale commercial agriculture. They are often used in conjunction with modern agricultural machinery to meet the demands of large-scale food production.

Plough machine specifications and maintenance

The specifications of a ploughing machine can differ depending on the type, and they usually have an effect on how the machine works and should be maintained. Here are the key specifications corresponding with their maintenance requirements:

• Power source

  Ploughing machines can have different power sources, and their maintenance needs can depend on whether the plough is powered by gasoline, diesel, or electricity. For example, before every use, they will need to check the fuel or power source to ensure that there is enough for the task at hand. Additionally, the machine's filters, fuel lines, and carburetor will need to be checked regularly for signs of wear or malfunction. They must also monitor the temperature and pressure of liquid-cooled engine models and adjust as necessary to avoid overheating.

• Working depth and width

  The plying capacity of a ploughing machine refers to the width and depth of the soil that it covers. To ensure that it is functioning properly, users may need to calibrate the plough's working depth and width to achieve optimal soil turnover and avoid over-ploughing or under-ploughing. They may also need to regularly monitor the plough's performance during use and make adjustments as necessary to maintain the proper working depth and width.

• Type of soil and field condition

  The kind of soil composition and condition of the field being ploughed will have an impact on how the ploughing machine works. Consequently, operators should regularly inspect the plough for signs of soil or sediment buildup, especially in hard-to-reach areas, and clean it thoroughly to prevent any accumulation. Additionally, they should adjust the ploughing speed and depth based on the soil condition to avoid damaging the plough or overworked.

• Speed and fuel consumption

  This refers to how fast a ploughing machine is working and how much fuel it consumes. Users should closely monitor the ploughing speed and fuel consumption rate to optimize efficiency and minimize operating costs. They should also establish a regular maintenance schedule based on the hours of operation and ensure that the plough is properly calibrated and adjusted for optimal performance. Whenever necessary, they should also refill the ploughing machine with the recommended type and grade of fuel.

Scenarios of using plough machines

Plough machines play a vital role in the agriculture sector. Here are some common usage scenarios of plough machines.

• Pre-planting soil preparation: Plough machines are used to break up and turn over the topsoil layer before planting. The deep soil turnover helps to improve soil drainage and aeration, promote the development of a deep root system by loosening compacted soil, and create a suitable and inviting environment for seed germination. The action also results in the exposure of soil organisms and weed seeds to sunlight, which causes them to die.
• Managing vegetation and crop residues: Ploughing can be employed to manage cover crops or crop residues from previous harvests. Ploughing under cover crops reduces erosion, enhances soil health, and improves nutrient recycling. Incorporating crop residues into the soil through ploughing helps lessen the buildup of plant disease pathogens and provides organic matter for soil enhancement.
• Weed and pest control: Ploughing can assist in the control of perennial weeds and insect pests by disrupting their growth and life cycles. It kills weeds by uprooting and exposing them to air and sunlight. Ploughing also destroys the habitats of insect pests that reside in the soil.
• Creating planting furrows or beds: Plough machines can be used to create precise planting beds and furrows according to field test results. The custom-made beds and furrows enhance water flow and sediment movement, minimizing soil erosion while ensuring proper drainage and irrigation. Ploughing also facilitates the establishment of plantation areas with improved accessibility and reduced pest entry.
• Land reclamation: After natural calamities such as floods, hurricanes, or wildfires, the affected land may require urgent intervention for restoration. Ploughing may be one of the steps necessary to reclaim substantially degraded and uncultivated land surfaces. It will help prepare the land for future agricultural activities by improving soil conditions, enhancing nutrient availability, and facilitating vegetation establishment.
• Construction of terrace or contour farms: Ploughing machines can aid soil conservation by constructing terraces on sloped lands. The ploughing action helps build bench-like formations that reduce surface runoff and soil erosion. Ploughing along the contour lines on sloping terrain also minimizes soil erosion, while the furrows improve water infiltration and retention. Plough machines are essential tools for sustainable agriculture in regions with challenging topography.

How to Choose Plough Machines

Choosing the right plough is an essential step towards achieving a set agricultural goal. There are numerous factors to consider after developing the necessary soil management. This includes the type of soil, crop, field condition, and farm size.

Both small and large farms can benefit from ploughs such as the disc harrow plough and the mouldboard plough. Small farms would require animal-powered ploughs for day-to-day activities or simpler forms of agriculture. Furthermore, they could use the walk-behind ploughs if they have a limited budget. On the other hand, large farms would require advanced machinery such as the disc plough, which is more suitable for large farms. It covers a large ploughing area and has great durability. Additionally, they could use tractor-mounted ploughs or the mouldboard plough, which is attached to a tractor. This plough moves a larger volume of soil and operates under similar principles as a draught mouldboard plough.

Soil type is among the most crucial factors to consider when selecting a plough. Businesses should choose the right one based on their soil type. Heavy disc harrow ploughs are more suitable for hardpan soil, while spring harrow ploughs are more appropriate for sandy soil conditions. Soil index and tilth are also factors to consider when choosing the right plough. Businesses with high soil tilth should choose finer tillage, while businesses with low soil tilth should choose more aggressive tillage.

Field conditions should also be considered when selecting a plough. Businesses with rough unlevel fields can opt for disc harrow ploughs, while those with level fields can go for spring harrow ploughs. Businesses with grassy fields may have to choose the power harrow among all the available options.

Plough machine FAQ

Q1: How does a plough machine work?

A1: A plough machine works by utilizing a primary implement hitched to a tractor or pulled by a tractor to break up the soil and turn it over. It aids in soil preparation for planting crops.

Q2: What are the benefits of using a plough machine?

A2: The benefits of using a plough machine include efficient soil turning and aeration, weed control, incorporation of organic matter and fertilizers, creation of furrows for seed placement, and improved soil structure for better drainage and root penetration.

Q3: What types of plough machines are commonly used?

A3: The common types of plough machines include moldboard plows, disk plows, harrow plows, chisel plows, and ridge plows. Each type is suitable for specific soil conditions and agricultural practices.

Q4: Can a plough machine be used in all soil types?

A4: While a plough machine is valuable for many soil types, it may not be suitable for all conditions. Heavy, compacted, or clay soils require specialized ploughs. Also, caution should be exercised in sandy soils where excessive tillage could harm soil structure.

Q5: How much fuel does a ploughing machine use?

A5: The amount of fuel used during ploughing depends on various factors, including the type and power of the tractor used, the size of the ploughed area, soil conditions, ploughing depth, and operating efficiency. On average, a tractor consumes 10 to 20 liters of diesel per hour.