A well-maintained sprayer is essential for accurate applications. We offer six handy tips to help achieve this.

The busy spring spraying season is just around the corner, which means sprayers will be out in force across the country to kick-start crops into action.

As the weather warms up and soils begin to dry, ensuring sprayers are properly prepared can help to reduce the risks of downtime once things get busy.

A well-maintained sprayer is essential for accurate applications and optimal efficacy, says Hutchinsons agronomist George Baxter, who highlights six handy tips to get machines ready:

See also: Why avoiding glyphosate on stressed weeds is advisable

George Baxter © Hutchinson’s

1. Carry out a visual inspection

Start by visually inspecting the sprayer and checking over all the components for cleanliness and condition.

“The whole machine has to be fit for purpose, so look at everything from the hitching and steering points on a trailed sprayer, to the tank, filters, hoses, and electrics,” he says.

George recommends growers pay attention to perishable rubber components, such as drip control valves, which can be particularly problematic.

“Open out the boom and check the general condition of joints, hydraulic rams, pivots, 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 the machine has a valid National Sprayer Testing Scheme certificate, and book a test where appropriate.

2. Check tyre pressures

Sprayer setup is not just about the spraying components. Other factors, such as tyre pressure can improve boom stability and minimise compaction.

“Although many sprayers have self-levelling systems, these can be strained if tyre pressures are uneven. Don’t forget to 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, he says.

“Refer to tyre manufacturer recommendations or speak to a representative about optimum pressures.”3. Ensure the tank is empty and clean

Ideally, the sprayer will have been put away clean at the end of the season. But 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. Using a cleaner can be beneficial if you are concerned about sulfonylurea residues on sensitive crops”

Remember, all washings must be disposed of correctly, which can be quite complex in the absence of a designated washdown area, so speak to your agronomist if you are in any doubt, adds George.

4. Look for leaks

It is 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.”

5. Test the nozzles

It is important to inspect and jug test the nozzles for damage and ensure they are within tolerance for desired application rates.

Cross reference the flow rate against the manufacturer’s data, and also check that nozzles are correctly aligned.

“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.

It’s a complex area, so discuss the options for nozzle choice and water volume with your agronomist.”

6. Check PPE and first aid

Finally, George highlights ensuring the correct PPE and a 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 a spill kit, fire extinguisher, signage, and an emergency action plan in the event of an accident,” he says.