Spray Equipment Calibration Flashcards
6 cards from real GROWSAFE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Spray Equipment Calibration flashcards as text
What is the purpose of calibrating a boom sprayer?
Answer: To verify that the sprayer delivers the correct volume of product per hectare as specified on the product label
Calibration ensures the sprayer applies product at the correct rate. Incorrect application can lead to crop damage, pest control failure, excessive residues, or waste of expensive product.
What variables must be known to calculate the application rate (L/ha) of a boom sprayer?
Answer: Nozzle flow rate, travel speed, and boom nozzle spacing
Application rate (L/ha) is calculated from nozzle flow rate, travel speed, and nozzle spacing. Changing any one of these variables changes the application rate.
How is nozzle output typically measured during calibration?
Answer: By collecting the output of individual nozzles for a set time and measuring the volume collected
Collecting nozzle output for a timed period (e.g., 1 minute) and measuring the volume in a graduated cylinder is the standard practical method for checking individual nozzle flow rates.
What is the maximum allowable variation in output between nozzles on the same boom?
Answer: Typically no more than 5-10% variation between nozzles — nozzles outside this range should be replaced
A maximum 5-10% variation between nozzles is the standard acceptable tolerance. Greater variation leads to uneven application, with some areas under- or over-treated.
What does 'travel speed calibration' involve?
Answer: Measuring the time taken to travel a known distance to confirm actual ground speed matches the assumed speed
Travel speed is measured by timing travel over a known distance. Any variation from assumed speed changes the effective application rate, so actual speed must be confirmed.
What effect does worn nozzle tip have on application rate?
Answer: Worn nozzles deliver a higher flow rate than rated, causing over-application
Nozzle tips wear with use, enlarging the orifice and increasing flow rate beyond the rated output. This causes over-application of product, leading to potential residue and phytotoxicity problems.