FACTORS FOR IMPROVING THE TECHNOLOGICAL RELIABILITY OF COTTON PICKING MACHINES

Аннотация

This article analyzes the ways to improve the technological reliability of cotton-picking machines, the main causes of their malfunctions, and the factors ensuring efficiency during operation. It also presents methods for ensuring uninterrupted machine performance through the implementation ofmodern technologies. Introduction: Cotton growing is one of the leading sectors of agriculture in Uzbekistan. Increasing the level of mechanization in cotton production—particularly the efficient operation of cotton-picking machines—directly affects yield. The reliable performance of these machines depends ontheirtechnological conditionand operational conditions. Main part: 1.Factors affecting thereliability ofcotton-picking machines: The technological reliability of cotton-picking machines is determined by numerous factors. The mostsignificant of theseare analyzed below: Design solutions:The machine should incorporate a modular structure with easily replaceable and repairable components. Any complexity in the construction prolongs maintenance time and increases thelikelihood ofmalfunctions. Material quality: The use of high-quality materials—such as heat- and wear-resistant steel, alloys, and plastics—in manufacturing enhances reliability. This is particularly important for components that are in motionand operate under load, where material qualityplays a critical role. Assembly and installation quality: Accuracy during factory assembly, including adherence to geometric specifications and tightness of joint connections, directly affects technical reliability. Even minorerrors duringassembly can cause malfunctions intheoverall system ofthe machine. Conditionof hydraulic andelectrical systems: Maintaining stable pressure inhydraulic systems and ensuring the safe and consistent performance of electrical components play a decisive role in theuninterrupted operation of cotton-picking machines. Maintenance and operational culture: Adherence to the maintenance regulations recommended by the manufacturing company, compliance with lubrication schedules, and timely replacement of spare parts are all critical factors in ensuring machine reliability. 214 INTERNATIONAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL FOR RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT SJIF2019:5.2222020:5.5522021:5.6372022:5.4792023:6.5632024:7,805 eISSN:2394-6334 https://www.ijmrd.in/index.php/imjrd Volume12,issue04(2025) Climatic and field conditions: External factors such as uneven soil surfaces, dust, and moisture levels directly influence machine systems. Flexibledesigns that are resistant to climaticconditions contributesignificantly to reliability. Operator qualification: The operator’s level of technical knowledge, attentiveness to the machine, and adherence to operational rules play a vital role in the longevity and efficient functioning ofthecotton-picking machine. 2.Common issues during operation: The long-term and effective performance of cotton-picking machines largely depends on operational conditions. The following issues often cause machine malfunctions and reduced productivity during theharvesting season: Wear of working components: Picker drums, separators, and traction wheels operate under intensive loads. These components frequently experience surface wear, deformation, and brittleness in alloys. Such wear leads to a declineinharvesting quality. Lubrication system problems:Insufficient lubrication in hydraulic and mechanical systems increases friction, causing moving parts to overheat and fail. This issue often arises due to failure to clean oil filters ina timelymanner. Failures in electrical systems: Malfunctions in sensors, control panels, and signaling systems disrupt the automated functions of the machine. Damage to electrical wiring or loose contacts can cause interruptions inautomaticcontrol operations. Improper adjustment of picking mechanisms: To ensure high-quality cotton harvesting, the picking mechanisms (such as picking drums and separating elements) must be precisely adjusted. Inaccuratecalibration can result in incompletepicking oran increased presence ofimpurities. Impact of dust and contaminants: In field conditions, external elements such as dust, soil particles, and cotton fibers can infiltrate the machine’s internal mechanisms, slowing down its operation. Thisparticularly affects airfilters and coolingsystems, often causing serious damage. Lack of monitoring and preventive maintenance: Many operators and service personnel inspect the machine only after a malfunction has occurred. Minor issues that go undetected in timecanlater develop into serious failures. Shortage of spare parts: A lack of necessary spare parts delays repairs, leading to interruptions in the harvesting process. This is especially detrimental during peak harvesting periods, causing significant economic losses. 3.Ways to improve reliability Enhancing the reliability of cotton-picking machines ensures their uninterrupted operation during the harvesting season and enables efficient performa