ABSTRACT
While mechanization is known to enhance production and reduce drudgery, powering agricultural machinery entails energy consumption withattendant financial and environmental costs. Financial costs in agricultural mechanization is exacerbated by the rising energy prices due to ongoing energy sector liberalization and this has negative impact on the profitability of agricultural business. An optimum path is needed which ensures efficient level of production and minimum energy consumption.This study was conducted with the objective of developing a mathematical model for predicting the energy input to tillage operations for maize production in southern guinea savanna belt of Nigeria in relation to the level of mechanization. A theoretical model relating energy demand with the soil and tillage operation parameters were evolved from dimensional analysis using Buckingham pie theorem. Using a 3x5 factorial Randomized Complete Block Design experimental layout, field investigation was carried out on a sandy loam soil at Gui village, Abuja for three years (2010-2012) to determine the influence of degree of mechanization on the energy demand as well as provide data to validate the model. The study established thattheoptimum diesel consumption for ploughing , harrowing and ridging operations were found to be 20, 23 and 24 litres per hectare when working at the respective speed of 5.6, 7.8 and 4.8km/h and at depth of 10cm, 15cm and 20 cm respectively. A mathematical model was developed for predicting tillage energy at different depth and speeds. The model was implemented using MS Excel visual basic macros and was applied for predicting energy demand for different field scenarios. The predicted values showed good correlation with the measured.Based on the study, 15% fuel saving is achievable through tillage depth and speed management.