Analysis of nozzle spray distribution for different nozzle height and pressure

Abstract

A patternator was designed and constructed with the aim of field sprayers pattern testing and consequently application of more accurate weed control, reduce environmental and economic costs associated with weed control. The patternator was tested at six spray height (50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 cm) for each of the three levels of system pressure (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 bar). All measurements were performed spraying water with a temperature of 20 ^oC in the laboratory. Environmental conditions are kept constant at a temperature of 48 ^oC, relative humidity of 51% and wind speed 3 m/s. The Spray Width (cm), Standard Deviation and Coefficient of Variation (CV) of spray distribution patterns obtained from Patternator experiments at various nozzle heights and pressures. The result reveal the spray width was proportional to nozzle height, while CV and standard deviation values were not significantly correlated with nozzle height for other pressures. Increasing spray width occurred for all boom heights and pressures. The best distribution uniformity, occurred at the height nozzle 100 cm for 3.0 bar pressure.