Improvement of the sprayer boom mechanism using polymer-composite friction elements

Abstract

The paper considers the selection of anti-friction materials for the friction units of the boom positioning and stabilization mechanism of the John Deere 732 sprayer. The modernization is aimed at reducing wear and clearance in articulated and guiding joints, because their technical condition directly affects boom stability and the uniformity of working-fluid application. PTFE-based and polyamide composites are compared with Steel 45 in terms of density, compressive strength, friction coefficient, wear resistance and corrosion resistance. The analysis shows that polymer-composite materials are advantageous for low-speed oscillating joints operating under dust, moisture and limited lubrication. A combined polymer-composite element that can perform the functions of a sliding bearing and a spacer bushing is proposed for the most wear-sensitive joints.