Plough Supports

The supports in a bullock drawn plough are typically metal or wooden brackets or frames that are attached to the plough body and help to support the plough as it is being used. These supports serve a variety of purposes, including helping to distribute the weight of the plough evenly over the ground, preventing the plough from tipping over, and providing stability as the animal pulls the plough through the soil. Additionally, some bullock drawn plough may have adjustable supports that allow the user to change the depth of the plough, depending on the type of soil and the desired level of cultivation. The supports are an important part of the plough and play a crucial role in its overall effectiveness and efficiency.

Features of Plough Supports

The features of supports in an bullock drawn plough vary depending on the specific design and construction of the plough. However, here are some common features of supports found in bullock drawn plough:

Material

Supports are typically made of strong and durable materials such as wood or metal. The material used should be able to withstand the forces exerted during ploughing and provide stability to the plough.

Attachment Points

Supports have attachment points or mounting areas where they connect with other components of the plough. These attachment points may be designed to accommodate bolts, pins, or other fastening mechanisms to secure the supports in place.

Reinforcement

Supports are often designed with reinforcing elements such as cross-bracing, gussets, or struts. These features enhance the structural integrity of the plough, providing additional strength and stability.

Blade Support

Some supports are specifically dedicated to supporting the plough’s blade or cutting implement. They may have slots, grooves, or brackets that secure the blade in place and prevent excessive movement during ploughing.

Adjustability

In certain plough designs, supports may offer adjustability features. This allows for fine-tuning the position or angle of specific components to adapt to different soil conditions or ploughing requirements.

Load Distribution

Supports play a role in distributing the pulling force exerted by the draft animals across the bullock drawn plough. They help evenly distribute the load, minimizing strain on individual components and promoting balanced ploughing.

Stabilization

Supports contribute to the overall stability of the plough. They help prevent excessive tilting, wobbling, or twisting during bullock drawn ploughing, ensuring that the plough remains level and steady.

Size of Plough Supports

The size of supports in an bullock drawn plough can vary depending on factors such as the specific design of the plough, regional practices, and the materials used. The size of supports is typically determined by considerations such as structural integrity, load distribution, and stability. Here are some general guidelines regarding the size of supports in an bullock drawn plough:

Length

The length of supports can vary depending on the specific component they are supporting and the overall size of the plough. For example, supports that secure the blade may extend from the attachment point to a length that adequately holds and stabilizes the blade. The length is often determined by the design and dimensions of the plough itself.

Diameter or Thickness

The diameter or thickness of supports depends on factors such as the material used and the desired strength. Supports may have varying diameters or thicknesses based on the specific design and load-bearing requirements. For example, a support responsible for bearing heavier loads may have a larger diameter or greater thickness compared to a support that carries a lighter load.

Reinforcement

Supports may incorporate reinforcing elements such as cross-bracing or additional struts. The size and placement of these reinforcing components may vary based on the specific support design and the need for structural reinforcement.

It’s important to note that the size of supports may also be influenced by local farming practices, cultural preferences, and historical traditions. The dimensions of the supports should be suitable for providing adequate strength, stability, and load-bearing capacity for the specific plough design and intended use.

Use of Plough Supports

In an Bullock Plough, supports are important components that serve various purposes to enhance the functionality and stability of the plough. Here are the primary uses of supports in an bullock drawn plough:

Structural Support

Supports provide additional structural strength and reinforcement to the plough. They help distribute and withstand the forces and pressures exerted during ploughing, ensuring the plough remains stable and durable.

Blade Support

Supports are often used to secure and support the plough’s blade or cutting implement. They help maintain the proper alignment and position of the blade, preventing excessive movement or shifting during ploughing. This ensures that the blade effectively cuts through the soil.

Attachment Point

Supports may serve as attachment points for connecting various components of the plough. For example, they can provide a secure connection for attaching the beam to the handles or the handles to the blade. This helps maintain the integrity and proper alignment of the plough.

Balance and Stability

Supports contribute to the overall balance and stability of the plough. They help prevent excessive tilting or wobbling during bullock drawn ploughing, ensuring that the plough remains level and steady. This enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the ploughing operation.

Load Distribution

Supports aid in the distribution of forces exerted by the draft animals pulling the plough. They help transfer the pulling force evenly across the plough, preventing excessive strain on specific components and promoting efficient ploughing.

Adjustability

Some supports in advanced bullock drawn plough designs may offer adjustability. They allow for modifications in the position or angle of specific components, such as the blade or handles. This adjustability enables farmers to adapt the plough to different soil conditions or specific farming requirements.