Assessment of some measurement methods for the inspection of spray application equipment

Abstract

Several measurement methodologies used for the determination of the uniformity of the spray distribution are assessed. Nozzle adaptors used for flow rate measurements of the nozzles mounted on the sprayer cause a deviation of the measured values from the real ones, mainly in flat fan nozzles working at low pressures. According to the inspection standard, the transverse distribution uniformity in a horizontal boom sprayer can be measured in two ways. If a horizontal patternator is used, less favourable inspection results are found than if the distribution uniformity is estimated in the same conditions from the nozzle flow rate and pressure drop measurements. Finally, it was seen than the shorter overlapping length for the measurement of the boom transverse distribution established in the current standard, provide more favourable inspections compared with the overlapping length of the former one. The results of this work should be taken into account when establishing inspection procedures by the authorities and could also provide useful information for a future revision of the technical standards.