Sugarcane stem cut quality investigated by finite element simulation and experiment

Previous studies on the cut quality of sugarcane stalks have mainly focused on external factors. However, the effects of internal factors on the cut quality have rarely been studied. In this study, the influence of internal and external factors on the cut quality were considered. Numerical finite element simulations and an experimental design were utilised to investigate the influences of the internal and external factors on the cut quality. The numerical model was validated using experimental cutting tests and based on a theoretical analysis. The optimum combination of cutting system parameters was investigated using an orthogonal test. The cut quality of the optimal combination was verified based on experiments. From the results, it was seen that the cutting bevel angle plays a significant role in affecting the cutting force, whereas machine forward speed (within the range 0.4-0.6 m s(-1)) and rotational speed (within the range 650-750 rpm) had no noticeable influence on cutting force. The optimal combination obtained by the orthogonal experiment was a cutting bevel angle of 30 degrees, forward speed of 0.4 m s(-1), and cutter rotational speed of 650 rpm. The optimised parameter combination produced an improved quality of cut in a cutting test. The damage mechanisms of sugarcane arising from internal factors were also investigated. This study provides basic information for the design of a base cutter for sugarcane harvesting. (C) 2021 IAgrE. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study investigated the influences of internal and external factors on the cut quality of sugarcane stalks. The optimal combination of cutting system parameters was identified through numerical simulations and experimental validation, resulting in improved quality of cut in cutting tests. Additionally, the study also explored the damage mechanisms of sugarcane arising from internal factors, providing valuable information for the design of a base cutter for sugarcane harvesting.