Working width
The maximum width of the strip of land processed by the machine in one pass.
The large width makes it easier to work in large open areas, allowing them to be dealt with faster. At the same time, it is easier to deal with bottlenecks and hard-to-reach nooks and crannies with a small working width — a large unit may simply not fit where a smaller one will pass without problems. So it is worth choosing according to this indicator, taking into account the features of the planned work. If we talk about specific numbers, then in the smallest models the capture width
does not exceed 50 cm, in the largest it can be
1 m or more, a value
from 50 to 75 cm can be called average, and
from 75 cm to 1 m — above average.
Also note that some models allow you to expand the processing width by installing additional cutters. However, note that the wider the band, the more power is needed for efficient operation. It is believed that for the full use of the two-wheel tractor, it must produce at least 1 hp. for every 20 cm of width; however, for loose soils and shallow depths, smaller values are sufficient.
Working depth
The maximum working depth provided by the unit. In cultivators with non-replaceable cutters, this parameter is determined primarily by the diameter of the cutter, in walk-behind tractors designed for active cutters (see below) - by design features (in such models, even high power does not guarantee a large working depth). The most limited indicator in modern walk-behind tractors is
up to 20 cm, and a value
from 21 to 25 cm can be called small. However, often even such opportunities are quite enough. Depth from
26 to 30 cm already provides quite extensive opportunities, and the most advanced models are able to “bite into the ground”
by more than 30 cm.
Be that as it may, the optimal depth of processing depends on the type and condition of the soil, as well as the crops for which the soil is being prepared; detailed recommendations on this subject can be found in special sources. So it does not always make sense to look for a model with maximum depth - especially since such capabilities require high power. Also note that in many units the depth can be adjusted.
Reducer
The type of gearbox provided in the design of the two-wheel tractor.
The gearbox is a mechanism for transmitting rotation from the motor shaft to the working shaft; the speed of rotation is reduced, and the tractive effort, respectively, increases. In modern units,
worm,
chain,
gear and
gear-chain gearboxes can be used; here are their main features:
— Worm. Gearboxes based on a worm gear are mainly used in light two-wheel tractors with passive cutters (motor cultivators). With simplicity and low cost, such a gearbox provides a high gear ratio, which makes it possible to achieve good traction at a relatively low engine power. Other advantages of worm gears include compactness, minimum noise level, smooth running and self-braking ability. On the other hand, such gearboxes do not tolerate high loads, which determined the scope of their application.
— Chain. Gearboxes based on a chain drive — two gears connected by a chain (similar to the mechanism used in bicycles). Such gearboxes are somewhat more expensive than worm gears, but they are more reliable and able to work with higher loads. Another advantage lies in the small width of the body, which is especially important for motor cultivators — the gearbox does not limit the depth of processing, since it can be buried in the soil simultaneously with the cutte
...rs.
— Geared. The most advanced type of modern gearboxes. Such mechanisms are highly reliable and durable, they normally endure long-term work at high loads. The downside of these advantages is the high price. Gear reducers are used mainly on professional equipment, for which "endurance" is critical.
— Gear-chain. A compromise option, which, when installed on a motor cultivator, increases its performance (compared to chain and worm), and when installed on a motor block, slightly reduces the cost of the latter.Motor power
Motor block / cultivator engine power in watts. This designation is normally used for electric engines, but can also be used for gasoline/diesel engines, along with horsepower (for these, see Engine Power above).
A more powerful engine allows you to achieve higher productivity, width and depth of processing. On the other hand, high power significantly affects the price, weight and dimensions of the unit, as well as electricity / fuel consumption. In light of this, the engine power is selected by the manufacturer, taking into account which “weight category” the walk-behind tractor belongs to, what characteristics it should show. So, the lightest models have a power
of up to 1.5 kW, just such a device is best suited for a small area of 6 - 8 acres. Motoblocks
up to 3 kW are already able to cope with 10 - 15 acres, a power of
3.5 - 5 kW is suitable for a plot from 50 acres to a couple of hectares. Units
for 5 - 10 kW already belong to the professional level, they are "too tough" open spaces of 7 - 10 hectares; and the heaviest and most powerful modern walk-behind tractors have a power
of more than 10 kW.
