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Diameter, angle of attack, and distance of discs in harrows: Key considerations.

Distance Between Discs

The spacing between the discs in disc harrows is critical for the tool's quality and efficiency. The disc harrow is primarily used for crushing soil clods, breaking up stubble, mixing plant residues with the soil, and preparing the field for sowing or planting. The appropriate spacing between discs depends on several factors:

Soil type: In heavier, more cohesive soils, discs placed closer together can break up soil clods more effectively. For lighter soils, greater spacing between the working elements may be more effective.

Task: If the goal is to move the soil deeper, then discs placed further apart will be less likely to clog. For shallower processing or breaking up only the top layer of earth, a smaller distance between the working elements is appropriate.

Type of plant residue: If significant amounts of plant residue are present, discs placed further apart will help mix them more effectively with the soil. Harvest residue needs more space to prevent clogging.

Tractor power: The closer the discs, the less tractor power is required. Larger spacing of working elements means a heavier machine and greater demands on the pulling tractor.

Working height of the harrow: This may affect the depth of penetration of the discs into the soil, thereby impacting processing efficiency.

Technical condition of the harrow: Over time, as the discs wear out, they may lose their original diameter, affecting the spacing and the efficacy of work.

Coupling to accompanying machines: Disc harrows with smaller disc spacing can often be combined with seed drills to create a cultivation and sowing set.

Summary: To achieve optimal results, it is crucial to adjust the distance between the discs based on specific conditions and needs.

The diameter of the harrow disc

The diameter of the harrow disc is crucial for its performance in the field. Here are some key points on the importance of the plate size:

Working depth: The diameter of the disc affects the depth to which the harrow can penetrate the soil. Larger discs can work deeper than smaller ones.

Working power: Larger discs may require more tractor power because they create more resistance when working in the soil.

Shredding: Larger discs may be better at breaking up soil and crop residue, while smaller discs may be more suitable for shallower surface treatment.

Speed of work: Depending on the soil and conditions, a smaller disc diameter may enable work at higher speeds.

Clogging resistance: Larger discs may be less susceptible to clogging in the presence of large amounts of plant debris.
Application: Smaller discs may be more suitable for delicate cultivation or where residue should remain on the soil surface to prepare the field for sowing. Larger discs may be more suitable for thorough cultivation and more effective when mixing residues with the soil, e.g., post-harvest corn cultivation.

The disc inclination angle

The disc inclination angle in a disc harrow refers to the angle at which the discs are set in relation to the direction of travel and the soil surface. This angle significantly impacts the efficiency of the harrow and the quality of soil processing.
Key points about the disc inclination angle:

Treatment Intensity: A greater disc inclination angle results in more intensive soil treatment. Working elements set at a greater angle penetrate the soil more aggressively and turn it over.

Weed Control:** A larger disc angle is more effective in destroying and covering weeds.

Shredding Residue: The angle of inclination affects the harrow's ability to chop and mix plant residues with the soil.

Working Depth: The angle of disc inclination influences the depth to which the discs penetrate the soil. A larger angle usually achieves shallower work for optimal tillage results, whereas a machine with a smaller rake angle must work deeper to achieve a similar effect.

Clogging of the Harrow: In certain conditions, especially with significant debris on the surface, a greater disc inclination angle may increase the risk of clogging the harrow.

Disc Wear: Aggressive camber angles can lead to faster disc wear, particularly in hard soil conditions.

Intended Use: Machines equipped with aggressively angled discs are more technically oriented for post-harvest cultivation, while machines with a moderate angle are suitable for both pre-sowing and post-harvest cultivation.

Summary

Selecting the appropriate disc inclination angle depends on factors such as soil type, presence of plant residues, intended purpose, tractor power, among others. Rolmako offers a comprehensive range of disc harrows with varying disc spacing, diameters, thicknesses, and inclination angles. When choosing a disc harrow, consider the soil type, cultivation method, available tractor power, and personal preferences regarding soil processing quality. Consulting with the equipment manufacturer or dealer is also advisable to ensure the tool meets your specific needs.