Click on “Download PDF” for the PDF version or on the title for the HTML version.

If you are not an ASABE member or if your employer has not arranged for access to the full-text, Click here for options.

Abstract. The development of highly efficient seed metering is required to achieve the demands of modern day seeding equipment. The discrete element method (DEM) was used to simulate the metering of seeds. This approach was chosen due to its capability to accurately represent granular material flow. The contact model selected for the DEM simulation was the linear rolling resistance model. Angle of repose experimental tests and simulations were performed to calibrate the rolling friction coefficient for peas. Rolling friction coefficient for peas was determined as 0.016. The DEM simulation demonstrated the effect of roller speed and damping coefficient on mass flow rate. A 192 mm cross-section of air cart seed roller and housing was defined as a domain of the simulation. The simulated mass flow rates were 180, 174, and 173 g/s for damping coefficients of 0.2, 0.5, and 0.8, respectively. A sensitivity analysis illustrated that simulated mass flow rates were not sensitive to the selected damping coefficients. The simulated geometry of the seed meter and housing resulted in a steady flow of seeds with discharged mass increasing linearly. The simulated mass flow rate values were 174, 326, 470 and 534 g/s for roller speeds of 5, 10, 15, and 20 rad/s, respectively. The trends observed during the simulations were in agreement with similar studies performed on metering of granular material.