What Is a Boom Sprayer?
A boom sprayer is a self-propelled agricultural spraying machine designed for efficiently applying pesticides on large farms.
Equipped with an arm known as a boom, it dispenses pesticides downward from the chemical tank. Boom sprayers come in three types: tow-behind tractor-mounted, tractor-mounted, and self-propelled.
Uses of Boom Sprayer
Boom sprayers are employed for the efficient distribution of pesticides across extensive fields, eliminating insects and pests that hinder crop growth. They are commonly seen in Hokkaido, Japan.
Specifically, they are frequently used for disinfection tasks related to crops such as cabbage, lettuce, soybeans, and barley. Additionally, some are equipped with water tanks, serving dual purposes for irrigation.
One challenge with boom sprayers is the potential negative impact of the fine particles, known as drift, which can disperse pesticides over a wide area. Since the amendment of the Pesticide Control Law in 2003, precautions are necessary to prevent pesticide drift.
To enhance crop production efficiency, farms are expanding in size, leading to the upsizing of boom sprayers. As these machines increase in size, the weight of pesticide tanks also increases. Consequently, efforts are underway to develop effective pesticides in smaller quantities to prevent soil compaction.
Characteristics of Boom Sprayer
Advantages
Using a boom sprayer allows for the efficient application of pesticides over vast fields. Longer booms generally result in better spray efficiency, with large boom sprayers having booms extending up to approximately 30 meters.
Tank capacities also vary, ranging from around 200 liters to over 1,000 liters, reducing the need for frequent pesticide or water refills.
Disadvantages
1. Potential for Drift
Drift occurs when liquid from pesticide dispersion is scattered by the wind, posing the risk of reaching neighboring crops and causing adverse effects.
2. Unsuitable for Muddy Fields
The weight of the boom sprayer, combined with the liquid in the tank, may hinder movement in muddy fields. Continuous rain can lead to muddy conditions, preventing effective spraying.
Types of Boom Sprayers
Boom sprayers are categorized into the following three types:
1. Tow-Behind Tractor-Mounted
These sprayers have wheels attached to the machine, are connected to a tractor, and are towed while spraying. They are characterized by large tank capacities, making them suitable for quickly covering extensive fields.
2. Tractor-Mounted
Tractor-mounted sprayers can be directly mounted on a tractor or attached to the 3-point hitch. There are two types of booms for mounted sprayers: dual booms extending on both sides and single booms extending on one side.
3. Self-Propelled
Self-propelled sprayers feature dedicated vehicles with built-in spraying devices. They do not require switching to a tractor, allowing for easy maneuverability. These sprayers come in various sizes, from small walk-behind units to those with spray widths exceeding 30 meters.
How to Choose a Boom Sprayer
Choosing the right type of boom sprayer is crucial based on the field and intended use. Tractor-mounted sprayers come in various sizes, allowing selection based on the tractor’s specifications.
While dual boom sprayers are generally favored for their excellent balance, single boom sprayers are often preferred for their operational efficiency on slopes and uneven terrains. Tow-behind types are suitable for quickly covering vast fields.
Some models can hold around 5,000 liters in a single refill. However, with the increasing size of machinery, tractors with sufficient horsepower are required.
Self-propelled sprayers offer the advantage of immediate spraying without the need for tractor attachment. They range from small walk-behind units to larger machines, making them suitable for fields inaccessible to large machinery or smaller-scale farms.
How to Use a Boom Sprayer
To use a boom sprayer, fill the chemical tank with water, mix in the pesticide, and proceed with spraying. It is crucial to confirm that the spray nozzles are closed after adding the pesticide before starting the pump for agitation.
Incomplete dissolution of the pesticide can alter the dilution ratio. Always adhere to the prescribed handling procedures and usage instructions for pesticides. After completing the task, flush out any remaining liquid and clean the tank with water. Leaving residual chemicals can lead to clogging and other issues.