EVALUATION OF TRACTOR-SPECIFIC VOLUMETRIC FUEL CONSUMPTIONDURING RIDGING OPERATIONS IN DIFFERENT TEXTURES

Efficient fuel utilization in mechanized farming is a critical factor influencing both production costs and environmental sustainability. This study investigated the variability of tractor specific volumetric fuel consumption (SVFC) during ridging operations in two contrasting soil textures (loamy sand and clay loam). Field experiments were conducted at ridge heights of 10, 20, and 30 cm, and tractor forward speeds of 4, 6, and 8 km/h. Parameters such as bulk density, cone index, draught force, soil moisture content, fuel consumption rate, and power output were measured and analyzed. Results indicated that SVFC significantly varied with both ridge height and forward speed, showing lower values at higher speeds. In loamy sand soil, SVFC ranged from 0.34 to 0.85 L/kWh, while in clay loam, it varied between 0.27 and 0.66 L/kWh. Statistical analysis using ANOVA confirmed that soil texture, ridge height, and speed had significant effects (p < 0.05) on SVFC. Apairedt-test comparison between the two soil types showed significantly higher fuel consumption in loamy sand than in clay loam under similar operational conditions. These findings suggest that soil texture and ridge geometry play a vital role in determining energy efficiency during mechanized ridging. The study contributes to optimizing tractor operations, reducing fuel
costs, and enhancing sustainable mechanized farming practices in varying soil conditions.