Diseño y construcción de una enfardadora de alfalfa seca para la unidad de apoyo en pastos y forrajes de la estación Experimental Tunshi - ESPOCH

Abstract

In this curricular integration work, a dry alfalfa baler was designed and built for the Pasture and Forage Support Unit of the Tunshi Experimental Station - ESPOCH. This work arose as a response to the challenges faced by the Unit in the management and storage of alfalfa, whose inadequate management of these processes can affect livestock feeding, especially in periods of drought. The QFD methodology was used to establish the functional parameters and design requirements. Using a morphological matrix, various design alternatives were evaluated and a horizontal configuration baler with two coupled mechanisms was selected: crank-crank and rocker-crank. The mechanical components were designed and selected taking into account that the baler has a compaction density of 110 kg/m³, while the support structure was designed using SAP2000. The design was validated by means of simulations using the finite element method in ANSYS, guaranteeing its structural integrity and good mechanical performance. Construction and assembly were carried out in several stages to ensure ease of operation and maintenance. Finally, the operational tests confirmed that the baler has a production capacity of 30 bales per hour, with prismatic bales measuring 40x30x60 cm and weighing 8 kg. These results confirm the fulfillment of the proposed objectives and the satisfaction of the needs of the Unit in terms of production and baling shape