月: 2024年1月

What Is a Stump Grinder?

A Stump Grinder is a machine used to pulverize tree stumps into wood chips. It is equipped with a sturdy cutting edge, which can be cylindrical or disc-shaped. There are mainly two types of blade shapes, both operating on a mechanism of substantial weight and high-speed rotation.

As a result, lightweight models suitable for handheld operations are limited, and many are designed to be attached to heavy machinery such as tractors or backhoes. Some are even self-propelled, making them convenient for home use. However, unlike the mounted type, which can reach greater heights, self-propelled models are limited in their reach, resulting in a narrower working range. There are also handheld types available, some of which are compact and portable.

Nevertheless, compared to mounted and self-propelled models, handheld ones are smaller and less powerful, which can lead to longer work times.

Uses of Stump Grinder

The cutting edge of a Stump Grinder, located at the tip, is made of ultra-hard tips and operates by rapidly rotating to grind away tree stumps. In the case of cylindrical-shaped blades, serrated protrusions on the sides allow for the grinding of tree stumps at high speeds.

This shape provides a larger contact area with the tree stump, allowing for more efficient removal. However, extreme contact areas, such as placing the blade and stump flat on the ground, can burden the machine and become a potential source of trouble, requiring caution.

The mechanism is the same for disc-shaped blades. While the contact area with the tree stump is less compared to cylindrical ones, resulting in longer work times, it has the advantage of placing less strain on the machine.

Moreover, machine-mounted types offer substantial power, making them suitable for grinding large and robust tree stumps.

Self-propelled models, being more compact than mounted types, can excel in confined spaces on various job sites when compared to their larger counterparts.

What Is a Micro Sprinkler?

A Micro Sprinkler is a small, low-pressure sprinkler designed to evenly distribute a small amount of water.

The term “Micro” originally signifies one millionth, but in this context, it is used to denote something “very small.” The watering method employed by Micro Sprinklers is referred to as micro-irrigation.

Originating in arid regions such as the United States and Israel, it is an irrigation method that allows for precise water management. Micro Sprinklers find use in countries blessed with abundant water resources, such as the Netherlands and Japan.

Uses of Micro Sprinkler

Micro Sprinklers are primarily used for watering vegetables, fruits, flowers, and other crops in greenhouses and open-field cultivation. Once installed, they allow for the interchange of nozzles with different watering capacities, catering to the needs of growing crops. This flexibility facilitates meticulous water management throughout the crop’s lifecycle, from seeding and germination to seedling growth, transplanting, and addressing heat-related concerns.

Moreover, they are suitable for activities such as the cultivation of cuttings and grafting, as well as for chemical applications such as pest control and fertilization. Outdoor applications, including misting for temperature reduction during hot summers, are also observed.

Characteristics of Micro Sprinkler

Advantages

In comparison to regular-sized sprinklers, Micro Sprinklers exhibit a high uniformity of water distribution. They can be adjusted in their installation environment using above-ground riser pipes and hanging adapters. This adjustability allows for fine-tuning water application patterns, including the amount, frequency, and height, to match the growth stages of crops, such as sowing, germination, seedling growth, and post-transplanting.

Disadvantages

While Micro Sprinklers have a low unit cost, their limited watering range necessitates the installation of multiple units, resulting in a higher total cost.

Types of Micro Sprinklers

1. Classification Based on Watering Pattern

Micro Sprinklers disperse water in downward, upward, or lateral directions, adopting shapes such as spherical, full-circle, fan-shaped, or elliptical. The size of water droplets also varies, ranging from misty to fine rain-sized droplets. This diversity allows for selecting various watering rates based on water pressure and volume.

2. Classification Based on Nozzle Material

Micro Sprinklers are made of either durable metal or resin materials.

How to Choose Micro Sprinkler

For agricultural purposes, Micro Sprinklers are ideal for watering crops such as cucumbers, bell peppers, spinach, watercress, onions, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, tea, and more. Fruits like strawberries, pears, and grapes are also well-suited. Additionally, flowers like roses, gerberas, and chrysanthemums are suitable for Micro Sprinkler irrigation.

Selecting a Micro Sprinkler involves considering factors such as water pressure, gallons per minute (GPM) water discharge, and diameter size according to the crop to be cultivated. Checking performance charts will help confirm these specifications. Depending on factors like pump capacity, distance from water source, budget, etc., choose the equipment that aligns with your preferences.

How to Use Micro Sprinkler

Micro Sprinklers can be installed either in a suspended or ground-level manner. When installed above ground, riser pipes can be attached to position the Micro Sprinkler nozzles above the crops. Alternatively, when suspended, hanging adapters can be used.

Considering the low water output per sprinkler, creating a layout based on the area to be irrigated is recommended. To prevent clogging of the sprinkler, it is advisable to install a filter between the water source and the sprinkler. Before installation, ensure there is no damage or nozzle blockage. For automatic watering, setting a timer on the water source is possible. When mixing fertilizers with water, an injector can be installed between the Micro Sprinkler and the water source. If water pressure is sufficient, multiple Micro Sprinklers can operate simultaneously; otherwise, sequential watering will be necessary.

Despite the coverage area falling within the effective watering distance, there may be some variation in water distribution depending on the location. Careful attention to placement is required to achieve uniform water distribution. While Micro Sprinklers are commonly used indoors, outdoor applications are also feasible, although wind may influence their effectiveness. Therefore, determining an effective spacing based on approximately 60-80% of the sprinkler’s spray radius is essential. Slowly closing the valve after use is crucial to prevent damage due to water hammer effects.

What Is a Plow?

A plow is an implement designed for digging up soil, commonly referred to as a plow. It is typically attached to a tractor for operation.

When using a plow, allows for the deep and extensive turning of soil. It consists of a disc called the colter, followed by a share known as the bottom, which drags the soil. The bottom can be adjusted in number (from 1 to 7) to match the scale of the field or paddy. While it efficiently turns over large areas, reaching a depth of 40cm, subsequent leveling is often required.

Plows have been employed as agricultural tools since ancient times, initially drawn by oxen, later replaced by horses, and eventually evolving into steam engines in industrialized nations. Today, tractors with built-in engines are commonly used.

Uses of Plow

Plows are utilized for cultivating soil during seeding and planting in large fields and paddies. Due to their ability to dig deep, they bring nutrient-rich soil to the surface, burying upper-layer leaves and roots, resulting in fertile soil. This helps improve soil fertility, increase compost content, and promote the growth of healthy crops.

Moreover, plows can be used in areas with compacted soil or rocks. The act of turning the soil with a plow not only eradicates pest eggs and larvae but also contributes to the creation of well-draining soil.

In recent years, in regions experiencing significant soil erosion, the use of plows has been limited. Additionally, outside agriculture, plows find applications in laying underwater cables, exploring seabed oil, and installing pipelines in lakebeds.

Characteristics of Plow

Advantages

1. Reversal Effect

Plowing with a plow enables deeper cultivation compared to rotary cultivators. This facilitates the exchange of upper and lower soil layers, creating favorable conditions for crop growth.

Incorporating compost and organic matter enhances microbial activity, contributing to increased soil fertility. Furthermore, the ability to bury weed seeds, surface pathogens, and pests deep in the soil helps suppress weed growth, diseases, and pest damage.

2. Crushing Effect

Deep plowing with a plow allows for the breakdown of field tillage. This helps create pathways for water and air, improving drainage. It also encourages crops’ roots to grow deeper, enhancing nutrient absorption and robust crop development.

Disadvantages

1. Formation of Plow Pan

Despite the advantages mentioned above, in large fields using heavy machinery, plow pans, or soil compaction due to machine pressure, may occur.

Additionally, when the plowed soil is overturned, the once-firm soil now at the top may become compacted, reducing soil porosity and negatively impacting drainage.

2. Soil Degradation

Unnecessary plowing has the potential to degrade the soil. Returning upper-layer soil to the lower layers necessitates rebuilding the soil structure and may result in the displacement of previously well-prepared soil enriched with compost.

Types of Plows

Plows are classified into three types based on the difference in the inversion mechanism:

1. Moldboard Plow (Bottom Plow)

Commonly referred to as a plow, it comes in variations such as one-way plows, reversible plows, hillside plows, and furrow plows based on operational methods. They are further classified for specific purposes, such as paddy field plows and deep plowing plows.

2. Disk Plow

Disk plows involve rotating disks for soil inversion. The rotating disks allow for overcoming obstacles like stones in the soil, preventing machine damage.

3. Chisel Plow

Chisel plows utilize chisel-tipped tines to scratch and till the soil. Known for their high working speed, they are suitable for efficient rough tillage.

How to Choose a Plow

Choosing the right plow depends on the application and tractor horsepower. For deep cultivation and effective incorporation of compost or organic matter, a moldboard plow is suitable. Disk plows are effective for dry soil inversion and burying tree stumps, while chisel plows are efficient for rapid rough tillage.

How to Use a Plow

Plows are generally operated by moving back and forth across the field. The way the soil responds varies based on soil quality and working speed, necessitating adjustments in speed, depth, and other factors as needed. Setting a target plowing depth beforehand and making adjustments accordingly is recommended.

What Is a Boom Sprayer?

A boom sprayer is a self-propelled agricultural spraying machine designed for efficiently applying pesticides on large farms.

Equipped with an arm known as a boom, it dispenses pesticides downward from the chemical tank. Boom sprayers come in three types: tow-behind tractor-mounted, tractor-mounted, and self-propelled.

Uses of Boom Sprayer

Boom sprayers are employed for the efficient distribution of pesticides across extensive fields, eliminating insects and pests that hinder crop growth. They are commonly seen in Hokkaido, Japan.

Specifically, they are frequently used for disinfection tasks related to crops such as cabbage, lettuce, soybeans, and barley. Additionally, some are equipped with water tanks, serving dual purposes for irrigation.

One challenge with boom sprayers is the potential negative impact of the fine particles, known as drift, which can disperse pesticides over a wide area. Since the amendment of the Pesticide Control Law in 2003, precautions are necessary to prevent pesticide drift.

To enhance crop production efficiency, farms are expanding in size, leading to the upsizing of boom sprayers. As these machines increase in size, the weight of pesticide tanks also increases. Consequently, efforts are underway to develop effective pesticides in smaller quantities to prevent soil compaction.

Characteristics of Boom Sprayer

Advantages

Using a boom sprayer allows for the efficient application of pesticides over vast fields. Longer booms generally result in better spray efficiency, with large boom sprayers having booms extending up to approximately 30 meters.

Tank capacities also vary, ranging from around 200 liters to over 1,000 liters, reducing the need for frequent pesticide or water refills.

Disadvantages

1. Potential for Drift

Drift occurs when liquid from pesticide dispersion is scattered by the wind, posing the risk of reaching neighboring crops and causing adverse effects.

2. Unsuitable for Muddy Fields

The weight of the boom sprayer, combined with the liquid in the tank, may hinder movement in muddy fields. Continuous rain can lead to muddy conditions, preventing effective spraying.

Types of Boom Sprayers

Boom sprayers are categorized into the following three types:

1. Tow-Behind Tractor-Mounted

These sprayers have wheels attached to the machine, are connected to a tractor, and are towed while spraying. They are characterized by large tank capacities, making them suitable for quickly covering extensive fields.

2. Tractor-Mounted

Tractor-mounted sprayers can be directly mounted on a tractor or attached to the 3-point hitch. There are two types of booms for mounted sprayers: dual booms extending on both sides and single booms extending on one side.

3. Self-Propelled

Self-propelled sprayers feature dedicated vehicles with built-in spraying devices. They do not require switching to a tractor, allowing for easy maneuverability. These sprayers come in various sizes, from small walk-behind units to those with spray widths exceeding 30 meters.

How to Choose a Boom Sprayer

Choosing the right type of boom sprayer is crucial based on the field and intended use. Tractor-mounted sprayers come in various sizes, allowing selection based on the tractor’s specifications.

While dual boom sprayers are generally favored for their excellent balance, single boom sprayers are often preferred for their operational efficiency on slopes and uneven terrains. Tow-behind types are suitable for quickly covering vast fields.

Some models can hold around 5,000 liters in a single refill. However, with the increasing size of machinery, tractors with sufficient horsepower are required.

Self-propelled sprayers offer the advantage of immediate spraying without the need for tractor attachment. They range from small walk-behind units to larger machines, making them suitable for fields inaccessible to large machinery or smaller-scale farms.

How to Use a Boom Sprayer

To use a boom sprayer, fill the chemical tank with water, mix in the pesticide, and proceed with spraying. It is crucial to confirm that the spray nozzles are closed after adding the pesticide before starting the pump for agitation.

Incomplete dissolution of the pesticide can alter the dilution ratio. Always adhere to the prescribed handling procedures and usage instructions for pesticides. After completing the task, flush out any remaining liquid and clean the tank with water. Leaving residual chemicals can lead to clogging and other issues.

What Is a Fruit Picker?

A fruit picker is a tool designed to harvest fruits from high places without dropping them.

It is commonly used during the harvesting of fruit trees such as persimmons and blueberries. As long as the fruit fits into the basket, it can be used for various types of fruits.

Uses of Fruit Picker

A fruit picker is utilized when harvesting fruits from tall trees. Fruits in high places can be challenging to harvest, and dropping them can cause damage.

Damage to fruits directly impacts their value during sales, making it essential to prevent such harm.

Using a fruit picker not only enhances efficiency but also helps maintain the value of the fruit.

Characteristics of Fruit Picker

Advantages

The fruit picker offers several advantages, primarily in terms of efficiency. For example, fruits like blueberries are small, and trees often bear a substantial quantity of them. Using a fruit picker designed for blueberries allows for the rapid harvesting of a large quantity, thereby saving time.

Moreover, it enables the harvest of fruits from high places without dropping them. Fruits like persimmons are heavy, and there is a high likelihood of dropping them during manual harvesting. If fruits are dropped, they may become unsellable, leading to a potential decrease in profits.

Using a dedicated fruit picker allows the harvest of heavier fruits without causing damage.

Disadvantages

One of the drawbacks of a fruit picker is its cost. With various types available, it is necessary to purchase a fruit picker tailored to the target fruit.

Using a fruit picker unsuitable for the target fruit may result in inefficient harvesting or fruit damage. Considering that a single fruit picker can cost several thousand yen, cost considerations are crucial for those wishing to harvest multiple fruit varieties.

Additionally, fruit pickers are manual, requiring users to individually harvest each fruit according to the picker’s design. Even with the use of a fruit picker, some manual effort is still involved in the harvesting process.

Types of Fruit Pickers

The type of fruit picker varies depending on the fruit to be harvested.

1. Berry Picker

A berry picker is designed to efficiently harvest small fruits in bulk. For instance, blueberry bushes often bear numerous small fruits that would be labor-intensive and time-consuming to harvest individually. Berry pickers address this challenge.

2. Large Fruit Picker

Fruits like persimmons, apples, and peaches fall into the category of large fruits. When harvesting these fruits, a fruit picker comes in handy. Different from a berry picker, the structure of a large fruit picker involves a basket attached to the end of a long pole for collecting fruits without damage.

Using a basket for collection allows the careful harvesting of individual heavy fruits. The size of the basket varies based on the size of the fruit. Fruit pickers are lightweight, considering the need for working at elevated positions, making them manageable even with heavier fruits.

How to Choose a Fruit Picker

Selecting a fruit picker depends on the type of fruit to be harvested. As previously mentioned, for the efficient harvesting of berries, a berry picker is recommended. It enables the rapid and mass harvesting of small fruits, reducing overall time spent.

For the harvesting of larger fruits like apples or peaches, choosing a fruit picker with a pole and basket attachment is advisable. Since fruits vary in size, it is desirable to use a fruit picker with a basket tailored to the size of the fruit. The length of the pole also varies between fruit pickers, so it is essential to ensure that the product reaches the desired fruits for harvest.

What Is a Forage Harvester?

A forage harvester is an agricultural implement designed to harvest or pick up grass, feed crops such as corn, shred them and blow them onto a transport vehicle.

There are two main types: unit-type and flail-type, with the term “forage harvester” commonly referring to the unit type. The unit type consists of three parts: the header unit for harvesting or picking up grass, the feed roller for moving the material, and the cutter head for shredding.

There are three usage methods: direct attachment to a tractor, towed for use, and self-propelled. The flail-type harvests, shreds, and blows material onto a transport vehicle using flail blades. It is classified into single-cut and double-cut types.

Uses of Forage Harvesters

Forage harvesters are used in agriculture for harvesting and collecting feed crops such as grass and forage crops like rice and corn. They are also used to pick up and finely cut dried crops for collection on transport vehicles.

The collected feed crops can be used directly as fodder or processed into silage through fermentation in silos. Cutting and collecting in silos allow for more compact storage, approximately 1.5 to 2 times more than storing long crops as is.

The header unit is exchanged based on the feed crop being collected for unit types. Types include row crop units for harvesting long crops like corn, pickup units for collecting harvested grass, and mower bar units for cutting grass and other crops.

Features of Forage Harvesters

Forage harvesters simultaneously perform the tasks of harvesting, cutting, and discharging feed crops, typically with a transport vehicle running alongside to accumulate the cut material.

Advantages

Given that fields cultivating feed crops are often expansive, forage harvesters that can perform harvesting, cutting, and accumulation simultaneously significantly reduce work time. The reduced volume of cut crops compared to regular crops also leads to space savings, typically between half and one-third.

Disadvantages

Efficiency may decrease if the crops being harvested are wet, leading to potential work delays during heavy rainfall, such as the rainy season. Additionally, in smaller fields, the number of turns required may be higher, resulting in poorer efficiency than in larger fields. Due to its high initial cost, forage harvesters are more suitable for large-scale farms.

Types of Forage Harvesters

There are two main types: unit-type and flail-type.

1. Unit-type

Unit types can adjust between harvesting or picking up by exchanging the attachment unit. The mower bar unit is used for cutting, the pickup unit for picking up, and other specialized units for different crops. Unit types can be classified as tractor-mounted, towed, or self-propelled.

2. Flail-type

Flail blades rotate to perform simultaneous harvesting and cutting, with the shredded feed blown onto a transport vehicle. There are direct-cut types and double-chop types, the former blowing material simultaneously during harvesting, while the latter involves a secondary cut and blow after initial harvesting.

How to Choose a Forage Harvester

Unit types have higher initial costs and are suitable for large-scale farms. In contrast, flail types are more affordable and can be used with smaller tractors. Therefore, smaller farms may find flail types more suitable despite the drawback of uneven and larger cut lengths. However, the efficiency of flail types is generally lower compared to unit types due to their compatibility with smaller tractors. Therefore, for larger farms, unit types are more desirable. The choice of forage harvester should align with the scale of farm management.

What Is a Pitchfork?

Originating in Europe, a pitchfork is an agricultural tool featuring a long handle and sharp metal prongs, resembling an enlarged rake. The prongs, which can range from 2 to 6 in number and be either straight or curved, are designed for various tasks. 

Interestingly, the design of dining forks was inspired by the functionality of pitchforks. Over time, while the term “fork” has come to commonly refer to the dining utensil, its original association was with the pitchfork.

The long handle of the pitchfork allows for more comfortable usage without the need for excessive bending, thus easing the physical strain of agricultural work.

Uses of Pitchforks

Pitchforks have diverse applications in agriculture. They are commonly used for handling harvested wheat or hay, gathering soft crops like leaves, grapes, and other fruits, mixing compost, and harvesting root crops like potatoes and sweet potatoes without causing damage. In the livestock industry, they are instrumental in handling hay.

Beyond agriculture, pitchforks have historical significance as makeshift weapons. They served as an affordable alternative to spears for self-defense among those who couldn’t afford more expensive weapons. In Western culture, they have been utilized in protests and depicted as tools in combating zombies in movies. In various subcultures, pitchforks are also symbolically associated with demons, drawing inspiration from the trident of Poseidon in Greek mythology.

What Is a Dredge?

A dredge refers both to the act of removing or relocating underwater sediment and to the machine used for this purpose. Dredges are commonly employed in the fishing industry and agriculture for geological surveys and land maintenance.

There are three primary types of dredges:

• Mechanical Dredges: Use a digging bucket suspended from a crane to move sediment.
• Hydraulic Dredges: Create a sediment-water mixture, moving the sediment through pipes.
• Pneumatic Dredges: Operate with an underwater air-lift pump to suck up sediment with minimal water.

The key distinction among these types lies in their water usage relative to the sediment moved. Mechanical dredges typically use less water, hydraulic dredges use significantly more, and pneumatic dredges use a small amount of water to suction sediment.

During dredging, it is vital to consider potential water quality pollution, as these processes involve lifting sediment from underwater bodies.

Uses of Dredges

Dredging is primarily conducted to remove impurities and sediment, improving water sources for agricultural use. Dredges are used in various agricultural activities, including:

• Maintaining irrigation channels
• Cleaning aquaculture ponds
• Managing waste from dairy and pig farming
• Maintaining peat bogs
• Cleaning lagoons and constructing landfill areas

The choice of dredge type depends on the specific requirements of the task. Mechanical dredges are suitable for situations where minimal sediment disturbance is desired. Hydraulic dredges, being highly efficient, are versatile and used for a range of purposes. Pneumatic dredges, which require high pressure for sediment suction, are more suited for deep-sea applications than shallow waters.

What Is a Trailer?

A trailer is a non-powered vehicle designed to be towed by a powered vehicle, such as a tractor. Unlike tractors, which have engines and can move independently, trailers rely on the towing vehicle for movement. Typically, trailers are fixed in size and cannot be easily resized, allowing for various functionalities based on the type selected.

They usually have air-filled tires, but some models feature track systems for rough terrain. Tracked tractors that combine tires and tracks are also prevalent.

Uses of Trailers

Trailers are versatile and serve various purposes. In agriculture, for instance, combine trailers are used for harvesting crops, particularly in rice cultivation. Some advanced tractors, equipped with GPS for automatic driving, efficiently utilize trailers in large farm operations. With increasing tractor sizes, trailers have evolved to handle heavier loads and offer multiple functions.

Characteristics of Trailers

Advantages

Trailers facilitate easy loading and faster travel, significantly improving transportation efficiency, especially in agricultural tasks. They also offer tax benefits, as no weight tax is imposed on the cargo part, and using a single tractor to tow multiple trailers reduces overall taxes. Furthermore, trailers have a smaller turning radius compared to trucks, enabling easier maneuverability despite their length.

Disadvantages

However, the cost of acquiring trailers and the requirement for a towing license are notable drawbacks. Operating large special vehicles like agricultural tractors may also necessitate additional licensing.

Types of Trailers

Trailers are primarily classified into semi-trailers and full trailers, with variations such as double-decker trailers, pole trailers, tandem-steer trailers, and tilt-bed trailers.

1. Semi-Trailer

Common in Japan, semi-trailers lack front wheels and are designed for connection to a tractor. They can stand independently with support wheels on the ground and come in various body types, including container and tank types.

2. Full Trailer

Full trailers have both front and rear wheels, supporting most of their weight. They are classifiable into dolly-type and center-axle-type, with the former including a steering dolly and the latter having a central axle. Full trailers are less common in Japan but can transport larger volumes per trip compared to semi-trailers.

3. Double-Decker Trailer

A versatile trailer that can be towed from either end.

4. Pole Trailer

Used for transporting long items like rockets or railway vehicles.

5. Tandem-Steer Trailer

Features tires that turn in sync with the vehicle’s steering wheel.

6. Tilt-Bed Trailer

Allows for angle adjustment of the cargo bed, suitable for transporting wide items.

What Is an Agricultural Tractor?

An agricultural tractor is the most commonly used farm machinery for efficiently conducting agricultural operations.

Equipped with large tires and powerful torque, it is employed for tasks such as plowing, grass cutting, seeding, and harvesting. Capable of attaching multiple implements, it can adapt to various agricultural activities.

Agricultural tractors are indispensable in agriculture, addressing challenges like labor shortages and enhancing overall efficiency. Note that while there are tractors designed for towing, here we focus on those specifically used in agriculture.

Uses of Agricultural Tractor

Agricultural tractors find applications in various agricultural tasks, offering versatility through the interchangeability of attachments.

1. Plowing

Plowing involves preparing the soil before planting, loosening, mixing, and weeding. Implements like rotary plows or plows are attached for this task.

2. Field Leveling

Field leveling is essential to prevent issues like waterlogging and uneven water distribution in rice paddies. Implements like leveling harrows or rotary harrows are attached for this purpose.

3. Fertilization

Fertilization involves spreading nutrients necessary for crop growth on the field. Implements like fertilizer spreaders or broadcast spreaders are attached for this task.

4. Ridge Making

Ridge-making is the process of creating ridges in the field to improve water repellency and aeration. Essential for crop root development, ridge makers or soil bedders are attached for this task.

5. Mulching

Mulching involves covering ridges with plastic or polyethylene film to prevent soil dryness and disease transmission. Implements like mulching rotaries are used for this operation.

6. Snow Removal

In snow-prone areas, agricultural tractors are equipped with snow blades or snow rakes for snow removal operations.

7. Others

They are also utilized for tasks like seeding, grass cutting, and the application of soil amendments and herbicides.

Characteristics of Agricultural Tractor

Advantages

The major strength of agricultural tractors lies in their diverse range of attachments. The ability to switch attachments allows for the execution of multiple tasks efficiently. Another advantage is their capability to operate in softer terrains.

Disadvantages

One of the drawbacks of agricultural tractors is the higher cost due to the need for multiple attachments. Agricultural tractors require specific attachments for each task, contributing to increased costs.

Types of Agricultural Tractor

The drive systems of agricultural tractors are commonly known as wheeled models, but there are two other types. These include “Half-Track,” with wheels in the front and crawler tracks in the rear, and “Full-Track,” equipped with crawler tracks only.

1. Wheeled Type

Wheeled tractors excel in on-road performance, facilitating long-distance travel. They are also adept at maneuvering in tight spaces, allowing for easy operation in confined areas.

2. Half-Track

Combining the advantages of wheeled and full-track types, half-track tractors provide efficient operation in wetland conditions, even though on-road performance is less than that of wheeled models.

3. Full-Track

Full-track tractors, with their wide ground contact area, demonstrate significant power in tasks conducted in waterlogged fields. They are also capable of operating after rain or on snowy surfaces.

How to Choose an Agricultural Tractor

When selecting an agricultural tractor, factors such as the size of the work area, terrain characteristics, and specific purposes need to be considered. Choosing the right tractor size, required horsepower, and drive system for each task is crucial.

Consideration of maintenance costs, including fuel expenses and repair estimates, is essential to choose an economically sustainable agricultural tractor.

Other Information on Agricultural Tractor

Driver’s License for Agricultural Tractors

For the use of agricultural tractors on private property, such as farms or private roads, a specific driver’s license is not required. However, if the tractor needs to travel on public roads, a driver’s license is mandatory.

1. Small Special License or Regular License

A small special vehicle is defined as having a length, width, height, and maximum speed of 4.7m or less, 1.7m or less, 2.0m or less, and 15km/h or less, respectively. If you possess a regular driver’s license, you can operate a small special vehicle.

2. Large Special License

If any specification of the small special vehicle exceeds the defined limits, a large special license is necessary. Acquiring a large special license enables the operation of certain construction machines besides agricultural tractors.

For those who do not intend to drive large vehicles other than agricultural tractors, obtaining a “Large Special License (Limited to Agricultural Workers)” is recommended.