Effect of Nozzle Orientation and Spraying Oil on Boomspray Patterns for Flat Surface Spraying

The optimization of boomspray characteristics to give uniform spray deposition a targeted surface is a fundamental component when aiming for the agronomic and economic benefits available through the use of chemicals for weed control. Experiments were conducted to determine the effect of nozzle height, spacing and angle, and the use of spraying oil on the spray deposition and uniformity for flat surface spraying. Analysis using fluorescent dye tracer technique showed spray deposition and uniformity were influenced by nozzle type and position. As nozzle height was reduced from 700mm to 360mm uniformity and deposition increased. Low pressure nozzles produced more deposition than high pressure nozzles when operating at similar nozzle height. The addition of 1% Ulvapron spraying oil improved spray deposition for both low pressure and high pressure nozzles.