A provisional test procedure for crawler tractor safety frames

Abstract

The primary purpose of this report is to assess a frame manufactured for an International BTD-6 tractor by Wilson Elliott Ltd., Balclutha, for the purpose of obtaining a certificate of approval from the New Zealand Department of Labour. The structural requirements and test procedure for crawler tractors laid down in this report are of a provisional nature, being based on experience with wheeled tractor safety frames, and allowance is made for the different weights and dimensions of crawler tractors. The results of the tests indicate that the Wilson Elliott frame will offer a considerable degree of protection to the driver in the event of the tractor overturning and it is recommended that a certificate of approval be issued. The test procedure adopted differs from existing methods in that both static and impact tests are included. It is considered that this offers a more accurate and controllable method of evaluating the structural behaviour of a safety frame.