| Module Identifier |
RD10610 |
| Module Title |
AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING AND FARM MACHINERY |
| Academic Year |
2002/2003 |
| Co-ordinator |
Mr Michael Barrett |
| Semester |
Semester 1 |
| Course delivery |
Lecture | 20 Hours |
| |
Practical | 15 Hours 5 x 3 hours |
| Assessment |
Semester Exam | 1.5 Hours Outcomes assessed: 1, 2 Supplementary assessment: Students will be required to retake the element(s) of assessment that led to failure of the module | 50% |
| |
Semester Assessment | Practical evaluation assignment Outcomes assessed: 1, 2 | 50% |
Learning outcomes
1) Select an appropriate agricultural tractor and machinery for a specified range of applications.
a. Tractor sub-systems are identified (engine, transmission, hydraulics, hitches, cabs, controls)
b. Strengths and weaknesses of sub-system features are described (engine, transmission, hydraulics, hitches, cabs, controls)
c. Sub-system features are related to specific tractor / implement operations (engine, transmission, hydraulics, hitches, cabs, controls)
d. Prescribed methods are used to calculate operating costs (fixed and variable costs, usage, working life)
2) Demonstrate the skills required to manage safe and efficient tractor / implement operations.
a. Methods of improving tractive performance are identified (soil properties, tyre type and working condition)
b. Causes and means of reducing tractor instability and control loss are identified (surface, slope, tractor and implement characteristics, preparation, field procedures)
c. Implements are selected and set appropriately (calibration, accuracy of distribution,)
d. Mechanical theories are related to field performance (forces, weight transfer)
e. Basic tractor / implement operations, maintenance and repair are performed (procedures, routine maintenance, tractor, trailed / mounted implements)
Brief description
This module will provide an understanding of the engineering and selection criteria associated with the agricultural power unit and machinery and the knowledge required to operate, maintain and manage tractor / implement operations safely and efficiently. The module will be delivered by means of a combination of lectures, lecture demonstrations and practicals.
Reading Lists
Books
Allcock P. (1986)
Tractor-Implement Systems.
Butterworth B & Nix J. (1983)
Farm Mechanisation for Profit.
Cooper E L. (1987)
Agricultural Mechanics.
HSE. (1995)
Tractors in Action. A Safety Training Guide.
John Deere & Co..
Fundamentals of Service Manuals (Power Trains, Electrical Systems, Hydraulics, Engines).
Liljedhal, J B. (1989)
Tractors and their Power Units.
Roth L D and Field H L. (1991)
Introduction to Agricultural Engineering.
Whitney B. (1988)
Choosing and Using Farm Machines.
Williams M. (1992)
Tractors - How they Work and What they Do.