Comparative Study on Lateral and Longitudinal Stability: Standard Versus Modified Tractor with Improved Rollover Resistance Under Various ROPS Configurations

Tractor rollover is a very common occupational accident in agriculture. Rear-wheel-drive tractors, which are often used worldwide without a cab, pose the greatest risk to human health and life in case of an overturn. Therefore, this study focuses on operational factors influencing tractor stability on slopes, with regard to the use of rollover protective structures (ROPSs). The static lateral and longitudinal stability of a standard rear-wheel-drive tractor and a modified one enhanced against rollover were compared. The comparison considered the improved geometric dimensions of the modified tractor and its axle load distribution. The influence of ROPS and ballast weights on slope stability of the experimental tractors was evaluated. The modified tractor achieved higher lateral overturning angles in all configurations compared to the standard tractor (from 22.1% to 30.1%). Maximum longitudinal overturning angle reached 37.21° for the modified tractor and 33.32° for the standard tractor (double rear ballast weight). Applying ballast weight to the front and rear of the tractor, the study proposed compensating for the decrease in the tractor stability caused by ROPS, while simultaneously improving longitudinal stability.