Plough Mould Board
The “mould board” in a plough is the curved plate attached to the ploughshare that shapes and lifts the soil. The mould board helps to turn over the soil and create a uniform and well-defined furrow for planting. The shape and angle of the mould board can be adjusted to control the depth and width of the furrow, as well as to accommodate different types of soil and crops. The mould board also helps to prevent soil from spilling back into the furrow and helps to conserve moisture by covering the soil with a layer of turned-over soil.
Features of Plough Mould Board
The moldboard in a plough possesses several important features that contribute to its functionality and effectiveness. Some of the key features of a moldboard include:
Curved Shape
The moldboard has a curved shape that allows it to guide and turn the soil. The curvature helps in lifting and flipping the soil as the plough moves forward, creating a furrow.
Smooth Surface
The surface of the moldboard is typically smooth to reduce friction and facilitate the movement of soil. A smooth surface also helps prevent the soil from sticking or clumping to the moldboard.
Reinforcement
The moldboard is usually made of sturdy materials such as steel or iron to provide strength and durability. This allows it to withstand the forces exerted during ploughing and ensures longevity.
Adjustable Angle
The angle of the moldboard can be adjusted to control the depth and width of the furrow. Farmers can modify the angle based on soil conditions, ploughing objectives, and the desired outcome.
Cutting Edge
The lower part of the moldboard, known as the cutting edge, is sharpened to facilitate soil penetration and cutting. It helps in breaking through the soil and initiating the inversion process.
Surface Treatment
Some moldboards may undergo surface treatments such as heat treatment or coating to enhance their hardness, resistance to wear, and longevity.
Size Variations
The size of the moldboard can vary depending on factors like ploughing conditions, regional practices, and the type of plough being used. Different sizes allow for customization and adaptation to specific needs.
These features collectively enable the moldboard to effectively turn over and invert the soil, creating a well-formed furrow for agricultural purposes.
Size of Plough Mould Board
The size of the moldboard in a plough can vary depending on several factors, including the specific design of the plough, regional practices, and the intended use. There is no fixed or standard size for the moldboard as it can be customized to suit different soil conditions and ploughing requirements.
The size of the moldboard is typically determined by its length, width, and curvature. The length of the moldboard can range from around 30 to 60 inches (76 to 152 centimeters) or even more, depending on the plough’s design and the desired furrow size. The width of the moldboard is usually proportional to the width of the ploughshare and may vary accordingly.
The curvature of the moldboard is also a critical factor that affects its size. The degree of curvature or sweep determines how effectively the moldboard turns and inverts the soil. The curvature can vary from plough to plough, depending on factors such as soil type, ploughing depth, and local practices.
Use of Plough Mould Board
The moldboard is a crucial component of a plough. Its primary use is to turn over and invert the soil as the plough moves forward, creating a furrow. The moldboard is positioned behind the share, which cuts through the soil, and it helps to lift, break, and bury the soil during the ploughing process.
The shape and design of the moldboard play a significant role in determining the efficiency and effectiveness of the plough. The curved surface of the moldboard allows it to guide the soil to the side and upward, causing it to flip and create a clean furrow. The angle of the moldboard helps control the depth and width of the furrow and contributes to the proper burial of plant residue or weeds.
By properly adjusting the angle of the moldboard, farmers can influence the soil’s tilth, optimize water retention, control weeds, and prepare the field for planting. The moldboard also helps to incorporate organic matter into the soil, aiding in soil fertility and structure improvement.
