Question

Which of the following are bulk flow seed metering systems?
A. Flutted roller
B. Inclined plate planter
C. Pneumatic seed metering
D. Internal double run type
E. Stationary opening with agitator
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B, C and D only
• B. A, D and E only
• C. E only
• D. B, C and D only

Hint:

To quickly classify seed metering systems:
Ask whether the system handles seeds as a group or individually.
If the system uses cells, pockets, or air pressure to isolate single seeds, it is a precision system (e.g., inclined plate, pneumatic). Otherwise, it is a bulk flow system.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Seed metering systems are designed to deliver seeds from the seed box into the furrow opener at a controlled rate.
These mechanisms are broadly categorized based on their delivery style:
1. Bulk Flow (Mass Flow) Systems: Deliver seeds in a continuous, unregulated stream, commonly used for solid-seeded crops like wheat.
2. Precision (Single-Seed) Systems: Isolate and plant individual seeds at precise intervals, commonly used for row crops like corn or cotton.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each mechanism:
- A. Fluted Roller: This mechanism uses a rotating fluted wheel to gather and deliver a continuous, metered flow of seeds.
It is a classic bulk flow system used in grain drills.
- B. Inclined Plate Planter: This system uses a cell-filled rotating plate inclined at an angle.
Each cell picks up a single seed and drops it, making it a precision metering system.
- C. Pneumatic Seed Metering: This system uses air pressure or vacuum to hold individual seeds against a rotating disc before releasing them.
This is a modern precision singulation system.
- D. Internal Double Run Type: This system features a wheel with fine feed ribs on one side (for small seeds) and coarse ribs on the other side (for large seeds).
It delivers a continuous bulk flow of seeds.
- E. Stationary Opening with Agitator: This simple setup uses an agitator to keep seeds moving over a fixed opening, allowing a continuous bulk flow of seeds to pass through.
Thus, A, D, and E are bulk flow systems, while B and C are precision systems.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The bulk flow seed metering systems are A, D, and E only.