Design features and working mechanism
The spherical rolling action of disc ploughs enables penetration into abrasive, hardened soils.
Core structural features include:
- High-carbon or heat-treated boron steel concave discs (usually 24 to 28 inches in diameter) that roll over obstacles.
- Adjustable disc tilt angle and disc direction angle to modulate soil penetration depth and furrow slice inversion.
- Heavy-duty seamless tubular or box steel frame designed to absorb high shock loads.
- Spring-loaded rear furrow wheel to counteract lateral side draft and maintain tractor directional stability.
Matching plough size to tractor horsepower
Tractor horsepower must align with disc number and soil texture to prevent engine lugging.
Typical configurations:
- 2-Disc Plough: Suitable for 35 to 45 HP tractors; optimal for light to medium soils and small land parcels.
- 3-Disc Plough: Suitable for 45 to 55 HP tractors; standard implement for medium to heavy clay soils.
- 4-Disc Plough: Requires 60 HP and above heavy tractors; used on large commercial holdings and tough virgin land development.
Operational maintenance and SMAM purchase subsidy
Regularly grease tapered roller bearings in disc hubs, check disc scrapers for proper soil shedding, and replace worn discs when cutting edges dull significantly. Eligible farmers can apply for implement purchase subsidies under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) via agrimachinery.nic.in.
Official source
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Common questions
When is a disc plough preferred over a mouldboard plough?
A disc plough is preferred in stony, hard, root-infested, dry, or sticky clay soils where standard mouldboard shares would choke, bend, or break.
What tractor HP is required for a 3-bottom disc plough?
A 3-disc plough typically requires a tractor with 45 to 55 horsepower and reliable category-II three-point linkage.
Can disc ploughs be used for stubble incorporation?
Yes, revolving cutting discs chop tough crop residues, roots, and green manure crops, burying them deep into the furrow.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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