More farmers are using cover crops as a method to manage weeds, erosion and increase the output of fields. With that, sprayer use has increased. Some high-boy sprayers have been converted to seeders, and overall more sprayer options are available from manufacturers to serve the needs of farmers.
Unverferth Manufacturing recently announced the addition of a 60-foot boom for its Top Air ATV sprayer for greater productivity. Jerry Ecklund, Unverferth communications manager, says with cover crops, an ATV-style sprayer makes the perfect tool for burning down cover crops before planting begins.
Case IH introduced the new 660-gallon capacity Patriot 2250 sprayer rated at 175 horsepower (hp) that peaks at 190 hp. It is designed to cover rough fields and rolling terrain.
New for 2016 from John Deere is the R4023 self-propelled sprayer, a smaller, lighter-weight model added to the 4 Series sprayer line-up. It features a new premium cab option, wide and narrow axle configurations and the latest integrated technology.
As spring jumps into full swing, remember to use a pre-season checklist for sprayer and machine preparation.
• Clean or replace tank and boom sprayers as needed. Inspect hoses, clamps and fittings for wear or leaks. Repair and replace parts as needed.
• Test nozzle flow rate and compare to new — replace any tip that has 10 percent or more error from new nozzle flow rate. If two or more nozzles fail, replace the whole set.
• Inspect boom suspension and general mechanical condition. Repair as needed. Automated boom height control can’t perform well if boom mechanicals are worn.
YOUR ELECTRONIC inspection tasks should include inspecting cable for corroded connectors and physical damage. Pay extra attention to possible pinch points like drawbar and boom fold areas. Calibrate ground speed sensor. Test the flow meter and calibrate or repair as needed. Test boom and flow control valves for proper operation.
Calibrating the sprayer will have a direct impact on achieving effective control and the cost of crop production because as nozzles wear out with use, they increase the flow rate.
There are several ways to calibrate a sprayer. Regardless of which method you choose, it usually doesn't take more than 30 minutes to calibrate a sprayer, and only three things are needed: a watch with a second hand, a measuring tape and a jar graduated in ounces. Check out more details on calibration at http://ohioline.osu.edu/aex-fact/0520.html.
Remember to think of safety first. Do you have an adequate supply of gloves, goggles, particle masks and chemical jump suits? If not, buy more than you are likely to need.