A THEORETICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF RUBBER TRACKS FOR AGRICULTURE

Previous work on rubber tracks at Silsoe Research Institute is reviewe d. Two mathematical models are described for predicting the tractive p erformance of a rubber track, one assuming that the track is infinitel y stiff and one assuming that it is infinitely flexible. Predictions o f performance made using both models are compared with field data obta ined from an experimental track unit on a special test vehicle. The me asured data are found to lie between the values predicted by the two m odels. Measurements made with the experimental rubber track unit in th e special test vehicle show that the length of the ground contact area is the most important factor affecting tractive performance. Distribu tion of the pressure in the ground contact area is also important, but track tension is not important, within the range of values and field conditions investigated. Results of comparative tests of a rubber trac ked vehicle and a four-wheel drive tractor show 10-20% advantages for the rubber tracks.