VI. CALIBRATION

Calibrating Your Spraying System

It is important to apply chemicals as recommended by the manufacturers of the product. In order to do so, the spraying system must be properly calibrated. Determine the speed at which the sprayer will be driven while applying chemicals.

To select the best speed, consider the lay of the land, the condition of the soil, the type of crops, the height of the crops, etc. Select the nozzle spacing (distance between each nozzle on the spray boom) best suited for the intended spraying job.

For help in determining the nozzle spacing and height of boom, refer to the spray product catalog that accompanies this manual. There are several types and sizes of nozzles. Select (as recommended by the catalog) and install the type and size of nozzles best suited for the intended spraying job. The type and size of nozzles selected will depend upon the speed the sprayer will travel, the nozzle spacing, and the number of gallons one intends to apply per acre.

Verifying Calibration

Check with manufacturer on recommended spray pressure. To test your system, fill the solution tanks with clean water. Do not add chemicals until calibrated and verified.

With brakes applied, start the engine of the sprayer; throttle the engine to operating speed and remain parked. Turn on all boom section solution switches. Make sure there are no leaks and that all nozzles are spraying a desirable pattern. Continue spraying in the stationary position for at least 10 minutes for proper warm-up of the sprayer and its system. Catch one nozzle’s spray for one minute in an adequately sized and marked container.