the machinery, to the dealers and ultimately the actual user, must keep lines of agricultural implements. Also
refer to our catalogs, general safety literature. And the standards published by the American society of
Agricultural Engineers.
4.
DERIVE-LINE SPECIFICATIONS
The first step towards a safe application is to specify and test the drive-line to operate properly under expected
field conditions.
1.
specify and test the proper size joints and telescoping members based upon the power required by the
implement, speed of rotation, joint angles, shock leads, and expected life. More information may be
found in all drive - line manufactures’ catalogs.
2.
design and test the hitch geometry to prevent the drive-line from:
⚫
Extending beyond the recommended maximum length.
⚫
Bottoming out
⚫
Reaching a position that allows joints to lock.
⚫
Exceeding the maximum allowable angle for constant velocity (CV) joints.
Information concerning these parameters may be found in all drive-line manufacturers’ catalogs.
Specify and test telescoping members to allow the lowest possible thrust loads, considering the expected
working conditions.
3.
Specify and test torque limiters to control excessive shock loads.
4.
Where necessary, specify and test overrunning clutches to prevent inertial loads from overpowering the
tractor.
5.
Provide a means to support the drive-line on the implement when it is disconnected from the tractor, to
prevent damage during storage or transportation.
5.
HAZARD REDUCTION:
The second step in specifying a safe drive-line application is to strive to eliminate as many hazards as possible.
1, On drive- lines with torque limiting or overrunning devices, specify that the device e positioned on the end
of the drive-line by the implement.
2, For implement connections which require bolts or set screws, select supply hardware which minimizes
protrusions.
3.
For tractor PTO shaft connections, specify a safety type yoke (twist or slide collar) to minimizes
protrusions.
4.
Provide a proper clearance zone for the operation of the drive-line, to avoid damaging the shielding
components.
Some common areas of interference are:
⚫
Three point linkage
⚫
Extended or eye loop hitch pins
⚫
Hydraulic hoses
