Performance test and economic analysis of paddy direct seed planter modified pulled by tractor (amator) in tidal swamp, South Sumatra

Abstract

Abstract Lack of labor is another obstacle to the characteristics of the tidal swamp land itself so that the use of agricultural equipment and machinery such as Amator can be used as solution. This paper aims to analyze the use of the amator in terms of technical and economic aspects of the equipment so that it is known whether it is efficient and profitable for farmers. Data collection was carried out through observation of equipment performance tests in the field and key informant interviews. This research was carried out in Sri Katon Village, Air Salek District, Banyuasin Regency. The data observed are technical performance including work capacity and work efficiency, as well as economic analysis in the form of basic costs and break-even point of using equipment. The results of the performance test show that the amator has a high efficiency (87.52%) with an effective working capacity value of 0.6244 ha hr−1 (1.6012 hr ha−1). The basic cost incurred for the use of the amator is IDR 193.145 ha−1 with a BEP of 16,8 ha yr−1. The use of amator with seeds only 35 kg ha−1 can save planting costs of IDR 200,000 ha−1 compared to the farmer practice.