Optimization of Operational Parameters of a Pneumatic Planter for Sunflower Seed

A four row tractor operated CIAE model pneumatic planter was procured by FAE, IGKV, Raipur for testing and multi location trials. The performance evaluation of a tractor operated pneumatic planter was done with sunflower seed. Different engine/PTO speeds and speed ratio of ground wheel to seed disc were considered. Different speed ratios were obtained by selecting suitable combination of chain sprockets. These studies were carried out under laboratory and field condition. Suitable disc and hole size recommended for sunflower seeds were used for laboratory and field test. For sunflower seed (3mm hole size, 8 holes), an engine with 1000 rpm gave desired result (seed rate 2.97 kg/ha, 60180 plants/ha) in the field test. The performance of pneumatic planter was compared with a conventional manual planting. A saving of Rs. 1274 per hectare or 49% was found by sowing with pneumatic planter in comparison to manual broadcasting. The pneumatic planting was found to be more cost effective in comparison to the conventional methods of sowing.