Fertilizer Spreader Calibration and Maintenance

There are a few steps that you need to follow when you’re setting up a fertilizer spreader. This includes the proper maintenance and calibration of the machine. It also involves checking the spread pattern and reducing skips and overlaps.

Measure the particles in the spreader

The traditional way to measure the particles in the fertilizer spreader is to use a collection tray. The problem with this method is that it is expensive and requires large indoor test facilities. In order to simplify the measurement process, a sensor is used to determine the size, distribution, and velocity of individual fertilizer particles.

Using an optical device, Grift and Hofstee (1997) developed a device that could accurately measure the velocities and sizes of particles leaving spreading vanes. This sensor proved to be reliable for field use.

A ballistic model was applied to the measured data to predict where individual fertilizer particles will land. The results showed that the number of particles was high in the 30 deg to 90 deg range. However, the total spread width was marginally lower than the manufacturer’s specifications.

A second camera system was developed to determine the coordinate system of the spreader. The system consisted of a dual feed gate set equally. It was adjusted to a horizontal position. After the adjustment, two magnetic tracking circular markers were glued to the spreader back. Each marker was moved in a line to acquire two subsequent positions on each image.

Using this information, the position of the marker was corrected for the height of the calibration plate above the ground. Finally, a vector sum of the two perpendicular velocity vectors was computed.

An alternative approach to measuring the spread pattern of the fertilizer spreader was to measure the diameter and velocity of individual particles. This approach was tested on a small broadcast granular fertilizer spreader.

A new type of optical sensor was developed for this project. The sensor was designed to operate in a measurement booth.

Check the spread pattern

The spread pattern of your fertilizer spreader is one of the most important factors in achieving a uniform application. The proper setting and calibration can ensure that the rate and density of your fertilizer is correct and that it lands in the right place. Performing a spread pattern check regularly is a good idea, especially with new technologies.

Spreaders come in various varieties, and some have special features for ensuring the accuracy of the spread pattern. These features can vary according to the manufacturer. Some models even have an electronic control unit that monitors settings. For example, some brands require users to enter their spread chart information.

An optical sensor is a useful tool for determining the optimal spread pattern of a spreader. This device is designed to measure the angle between the radial and tangential velocities of particles. It can complete a semi-circle around the spreader and can even predict the spread pattern in real time.

The sensor can be permanently mounted on the spreader or can be used for testing purposes. It is a simple device that can be used to measure the smallest possible measure.

A tachometer is also a handy tool to use for measuring the spreading speed. In particular, you can use this device to determine the optimal swath width. However, you should only use the recommended settings for a test.

Another way to check the spread pattern of your spreader is to place aluminum baking pans along the full spread width. You can then weigh the amount of product applied from each pan. Once the spreader has made three passes over the pans, stop and measure the distance between each pan.

Calibrate the spreader

Fertilizer spreader calibration ensures the proper amount of fertilizer is distributed. It is especially fertilizer spreader important if you are changing the rate of application.

The calibration process is very simple. First, you need to determine the distance of each pan from the center pan. This is done by marking the level of the hopper.

After you have established the distance, you need to fill the hopper with a product that weighs between 5 and 10 pounds. You should use a small, narrow bottle to measure the material.

Next, you need to check the parts of the spreader for wear and tear. If necessary, clean and lubricate the spreader. Ensure that the wheels and other moving parts are free of debris.

When calibrating a rotary spreader, the first thing to do is to determine the swath width. The swath width is the area of the lawn that the fertilizer will cover. It is measured as twice the spreader’s centerline distance.

The calibration test also tells you how much of the material is needed in a single pass. This is usually half of the desired rate.

For example, if you need to apply 20 pounds of nitrogen per thousand square feet, you would need to fill the hopper with a 20-5-10 fertilizer. Using this amount, you can subtract the first 20 pounds from the second 20 pounds to get a calibration rate of 2.4 lb.

Calibration is essential to the correct application of all granular materials. Each type of product differs in size, density, and nutrient content. Often, the recommended spreader settings are available on the label. However, these settings are not a guarantee that you will receive the proper amount of fertilizer.

Reduce skips and overlaps

When it comes to fertilizer and spraying operations, efficiency gains can come from several places. Among them is a reduction fertilizer spreader in gap size. Using the right implements and techniques can significantly reduce gaps to the tune of 16 percent and more. However, achieving this feat is more complex than it sounds. The key is to choose a tractor or sprayer that embodies best practices and to ensure a proper calibration process.

One of the best ways to reduce the amount of gap material is to use a granular fertilizer. This is especially true of fertilizers designed for turf. Typically, these fertilizers feature special devices that correct for skewing of granular product distribution. They also can be a lot more expensive than their liquid counterparts.

It’s important to note that using a granular fertilizer does not mean you’ll never make a misstep. Thankfully, you can still apply fertilizers to your lawn in a timely and efficient manner. In addition, the best part is that your grass is likely to look better. A proper spreader set up will also reduce weeds and other undesirable pests.

In general, the most efficient way to apply fertilizers is to cover the area twice, and a good rotary spreader will have an automatic mode that can do the trick. Depending on your preferred chemistry, the spreader should be half full with your desired rate of fertilizer. Once the spreader is on your property, use a measuring tape to measure the length of each pan. These measurements will serve as the foundation for your calibration process. For instance, you may want to record the distance from each pan to the center pan. Lastly, be sure to stop after covering each pan.

Proper maintenance

In order to maximize your spreader’s performance, you need to keep it properly maintained. It’s also important to follow recommended spreader settings. This will ensure that your machine delivers the correct rate of fertilizer.

The density of the material you use will also affect the spread pattern. If the density of your product is too high, your application rate will be too low. Similarly, if you use fine particles, you might not get as far as you should.

You should always wear gloves when you’re applying fertilizer. It’s also a good idea to wear a mask.

Before a spreader is stored, it needs to be cleaned thoroughly. This will help prevent rusting on the machine’s parts. Proper cleaning will also help prevent the buildup of fertilizer dust.

Aside from cleaning, you should also check the spreader’s parts for signs of wear. It is especially important to clean the spreader after applying granular products. Also, you should check for cracks on the soil surface. When there are cracks, they can obscure the particle distribution of fertilizer.

After you’ve cleaned the spreader, you should fill it with water and lubricate the wheels. This will help keep the spreader rolling smoothly.

During heavy use, you should also check the flow mechanism of the machine. It should be able to handle the load without overheating.

The conveyor drive of the machine is responsible for metering fertilizer on the spinner-discs. If the machine has a feeder gate, you should make sure the feed gate is positioned correctly.

Besides, you should check the apron chain, spinner blades, beater paddles, axles, wheels and grease joints. Some manufacturers even offer tray test kits.

Make sure to maintain records of your calibration. Taking notes is essential to ensure that your spreader’s performance will remain consistent.