Energy Reduction in Sweep Tillage Systems

Conservation farming systems are rapidly increasing in popularity. As these changes take place, there is an obvious need to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of the more common conservation farming tools. Chisel-sweep systems have an advantage over many conservation tillage tools because they maximize the residue left on the surface for erosion control while providing the tillage necessary for weed control and seedbed preparation. The accumulation of residue within the confines of the tillage tool is a common problem. The proper clearance vertically between the soil surface and the supporting framework for the tillage device is necessary for the passage of residue. A coulter directly ahead of the wingtips of each leading sweep, operating at the same depth as the sweep, reduced draft of the sweep-coulter system up to 45% as compared to the draft of a sweep plus coulter system with the coulter operating directly ahead of the sweep center. Coulters directly ahead of the wingtips of sweeps permit passage of the sweeps through heavy residue without problems of residue clogging, although there is a tendency for more residue buildup on the sweep shanks when wingtip coulters are used.