DEVELOPMENT OF A DEVICE FOR LAYING FILM ON FIELDS WHERE MELONS AND GOURDS ARE GROWN
Abstract
This article investigates the development of a combined machine designed for simultaneous ridge formation, drip irrigation pipe placement, and polyethylene mulch film laying in melon crop cultivation fields. Existing domestic and foreign mulch-laying machines were analyzed from technological and конструктив viewpoints, and their main shortcomings were identified. The proposed machine is intended to reduce labor consumption, minimize fuel and energy costs, improve soil moisture conservation, and increase irrigation efficiency under arid climatic conditions. The study substantiates the design parameters of ridge-forming working bodies and soil-crushing rollers to ensure high-quality ridge formation and stable mulch film placement. Experimental analyses demonstrated that the combined machine significantly decreases the number of technological operations, reduces soil compaction, and improves agro-technical performance. The developed technology contributes to water-saving agriculture and increases the productivity of melon crop cultivation.
Keywords
melon crops, mulch laying machine, ridge former, drip irrigation, polyethylene film, combined machine, water-saving technology, soil roller, agricultural mechanization, ridge cultivation.
References
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