A well-maintained sprayer, correctly set up, is essential for accurate application and optimal efficacy, while avoiding any risks to the operator, bystanders and the environment.
Ahead of the busy spring spraying season kicking off, Hutchinsons agronomist George Baxter, highlights six ways to make sure your sprayer is properly prepared.
Do a visual inspection
Start by getting the sprayer out of the shed, and walk around it to check all the components individually for cleanliness and condition, says Mr Baxter.
“The whole machine has to be fit for purpose, so look at everything from the hitching and steering points on a trailed or mounted sprayer, to the tank, filters, hoses, and electrics. Perishable rubber components, such as Drip Control Valves, and water ingress into electrical solenoid valves can be a particular problems areas to watch.”
Also check PTO guards, beacons, work lights and tyres are in good condition and free from defects. Open out the boom and check the general condition of joints, hydraulic rams, pivots, etc, and boom movement, which should move and reset itself to the centre, he says.
“Sprayers must be tested annually for farm assurance, so check that your sprayer has a valid, in-date NSTS certificate, and book a test where appropriate.”
Check tyre pressures
Sprayer setup is not just about the spraying components. Other factors, such as running the correct tyre pressures can also help improve boom stability in the field and minimise potential compaction of tramlines, says Mr Baxter.
“Although many sprayers have self-levelling systems, these can be put under greater strain if tyre pressures are uneven. Don’t forget to also check the tractor tyre pressures if you are using a mounted sprayer.
“The optimum pressure depends on several factors, such as tyre type and size, machine weight, and the amount of field and roadwork to be done, so a compromise may be needed. Refer to tyre manufacturer recommendations or speak to a representative about optimum pressures.”
Ensure the tanks is empty and clean
Ideally, the sprayer will have been put away clean at the end of the season, but Mr Baxter says there is no harm in washing it out again with clean water before starting the spring programme. Doing so also provides an opportunity to check for leaks at the same time.
Although water will do the job, some product labels require a specific tank cleaner to be used, and even if not, cleaners can be worth using occasionally to ensure everything is given a good clean, particularly if you are concerned about potential sulfonylurea residues on sensitive crops, he says.
“Remember, all washings must be disposed of correctly, which can be quite complex in the absence of a designated washdown area and biobed system, so seek advice or speak to your agronomist if you are in any doubt.”
Look for leaks
Mr Baxter says it is always worth operating the sprayer with clean water to check for leaks and ensure the on-off mechanism and anti-drip valves are working correctly.
He recommends running the sprayer at a minimum of 5 bar to check for leaks. “If there are no leaks, pressurise the sprayer to operating pressure to check that the pressure reading (gauge or electronic) is operational and correct.”
Test the nozzles
It is important to inspect and jug test the nozzles for damage and ensure that they are within tolerance for desired application rates. Cross reference the flow rate against manufacturers data, and also check that nozzles are correctly aligned, Mr Baxter advises.
“Take this opportunity to evaluate whether current nozzles are delivering the coverage you need to get the most from products. Recent years have seen an industry trend towards lower water volumes to improve work rates, but there is a risk this could be compromising coverage and efficacy in some situations. Again, it’s a complex area, so discuss the options for nozzle choice and water volume with your agronomist.”
Check PPE and first aid
Finally, Mr Baxter highlights the importance of making sure that the correct PPE and a complete first aid kit (including eyewash) is available to the sprayer operator. At the very least, PPE should include a face mask, gloves, and spraying overalls.
“Also consider things like a spill kit, fire extinguisher, signage, and an action plan/emergency contact numbers in the event of an accident,” he says.
“Taking a bit of time to make sure everything is in good working order before the season gets going can help to reduce the risks of downtime once things get busy. With relatively narrow windows to apply products at the optimum stage, anything we can do to avoid lost time and keep sprayers working properly has to be worthwhile.”
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