Design of a New Sensor for Determination of the Effects of Tractor Field Usage in Southern Spain: Soil Sinkage and Alterations in the Cone Index and Dry Bulk Density
Autor
Valera, Diego L.
Gil Ribes, Jesús
Agüera Vega, Juan
Editor
MDPIFecha
2012Materia
Soil compactionTrafficability
Profile meters
Rut depth
Tractor traffic
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Variations in sinkage and cone index are of crucial importance when planning
fieldwork, and for determining the trafficability of farm machinery. Many studies have
highlighted the link between higher values of these parameters and dramatic decreases in
crop yield. Variations in the dry bulk density and cone index of clayey soil in Southern
Spain were measured following each of five successive passes over the same land with the
three types of tractor most widely used in the area (tracked, two-wheel drive and
four-wheel drive). In addition, sinkage (rut depth) of the running gear was measured using
a laser microrelief profile meter. This device, which integrates three sensors, was
specifically designed for these experiments, as was an electrical penetrometer to determine
the cone index, and both instruments proved reliable and accurate in the field. The main
goal of this study was to design, manufacture and test these new devices. The first pass
caused most soil alteration when compared to successive passes for all types of tractor
tested and soil conditions prevailing during the tests. (Heavier) four-wheel drive tractors
were found to cause greater soil damage (sinkage, cone index and dry bulk density) than
two-wheel drive and track tractors. There was no statistically significant difference
between the two latter types. The greatest alterations were recorded in the top 10 cm of the
soil. The results show that soil compaction should be avoided as much as possible. This
can be achieved by ensuring that tractors always travel along the same tracks, especially in
the wet season. At present these aspects are not considered by farmers in this area