An Fta Based Methodology for the Determination of Fuel Consumption Variation of Tractors

In the present study, a methodology for determining the factors affecting fuel consumption variation in tractors is proposed using the Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) technique. The mechanical system of a rear traction tractor is modeled and the parameters responsible for the tractor performance are emphasized. From the definition of such parameters (for example: rear weight dynamic, slip, dynamic weight coefficient and power ratio, among others), the equations governing the fuel consumption are described for using in the prediction of tractor’s fuel consumption. The use of the FTA for investigating the causes of faults is justified due to the presence of factors that directly or indirectly affect the fuel consumption. Such factors are quantified and utilized in the construction of the fault tree. Through a literature review, the FTA is developed for showing up the events responsible for the fuel consumption variation. The results showed that the FTA methodology presented could be used for determining the influence of each factor in fuel consumption. In fact, the methodology presented gives a step further in what is utilized conventionally, showing that this kind of approach is able to direct more research work.