Scale Model Evaluation of Earthmoving Tools

The problem of accurately evaluating the performance of earthmoving tools has been for many years severely handicapped by the variability of field soils. The machine operator also contributes to the variability of field test data, since he cannot accurately reproduce adjustments of the cutting element on successive tests. Minimizing these two factors has been of prime consideration in the establishment of an indoor scale-model testing facility for earthmoving tools, described here. In addition there is a discussion of the soils used, the testing technique, and the type of test results that can be obtained.