Testing and performance analysis of Digital Fuel Economizer for Tractors

Gear-up-throttle-down (GUTD) technique as a solution to match the load on tractor during field operation for better fuel economy. Experiments have proved that GUTD approach can save 20 to 30% fuel. Previously a DFE has been developed by keeping in mind the low education level of farmers of developing countries like India and their natural aversion towards complex system during cumbersome field operation. Now detailed performance analysis in laboratory as well in real-time field condition are required. Therefore the prime objective of this paper was to testing and performance analysis of digital fuel economizer (DFE) system. Dynamometer testing showed that DFE successfully identified minimum fuel consumption zone and resulted in 7.1 to 15.8% fuel saving for different loading conditions. Field experiment with two bottom mould board plough showed maximum 2.6 to 15.8 % fuel saving for different depths of operation. Experiments showed that with full load condition scope of DFE is very limited.