Performance evaluation of twin-row planter for maize crop

Abstract

A mini tractor drawn twin-row planter was developed and performance was evaluated for maize crop. Two metering mechanisms, namely roller type and cup type metering, were selected and suitable seed boxes for each metering mechanism were developed and evaluated in the laboratory and field conditions. Four forward speeds (10,15,20 and 25 rpm) were selected to evaluate in the laboratory conditions. Parameters like seed spacing, missing and multiple indexes were analysed. Laboratory results showed that seed to seed spacing with cup type metering was 9.5 to 16 cm and with roller type metering was 11 to 20 cm at 10 to 25 rpm belt operational speed, respectively. Missing index was 11.1 to 17.1 per cent for cup type and 2.28 to 15.29 per cent for roller type metering system. Based on laboratory results roller type metering was selected. The spacing between twin-rows was kept 20 cm. Results obtained from field conditions showed seed spacing kept 20 cm of occurred at operating speed of 2.5 kmh-1. Missing index was 10.44 to 27 per cent with an operational speed of 1.5 to 2.5 kmh-1. Field efficiency of developed twin-row planter at 1.5 to 2.5 kmh-1 speed of operation was 76.9 to 87 per cent. Operational cost for developed planter was Rs. 1910.77 ha-1.