Articles
A RATIONALE FOR CONTROLLED TRAFFIC RESEARCH
Article number
210_2
Pages
9 – 18
Language
Abstract
Soil compaction by wheel traffic has become a major problem throughout the world wherever mechanization has occurred.
The problem has grown as the weight of farm machinery has increased.
Traction and transport research has shown that pneumatic tires need firm, dry surfaces for efficient operation.
Plant requirements for soil conditions are directly opposite (uncompacted, friable, moist). Controlled traffic (a crop production system in which the crop zone and the traffic lanes are distinctly and permanently separated) is proposed as the solution.
Recent research has shown subsoil compaction is primarily a function of the total load carried on the axle and is little affected by spreading surface loading by dualing or flotation tires.
Shape of the traction device-soil contact area is important and the first pass does most of the compaction.
The controlled traffic concept is especially important to Horticulturists because their intensive use of the soil exacerbates the soil compaction problem and the high value of their crops makes timeliness of operations (as provided by permanent traffic lanes) very important.
The problem has grown as the weight of farm machinery has increased.
Traction and transport research has shown that pneumatic tires need firm, dry surfaces for efficient operation.
Plant requirements for soil conditions are directly opposite (uncompacted, friable, moist). Controlled traffic (a crop production system in which the crop zone and the traffic lanes are distinctly and permanently separated) is proposed as the solution.
Recent research has shown subsoil compaction is primarily a function of the total load carried on the axle and is little affected by spreading surface loading by dualing or flotation tires.
Shape of the traction device-soil contact area is important and the first pass does most of the compaction.
The controlled traffic concept is especially important to Horticulturists because their intensive use of the soil exacerbates the soil compaction problem and the high value of their crops makes timeliness of operations (as provided by permanent traffic lanes) very important.
Authors
James H. Taylor
Keywords