DRAFT
and the coverage assessed viewing the droplets with an
5.4Sequence of Operation
It is important that all sprayheads are rotating at their correct speed before the chemical supply is turned on. Similarly, the chemical supply must be shut off before the sprayheads are stopped. This ensures that a stream of chemical does not run out of the atomisers and that the correct size of droplet is always produced.
When starting the rotation of sprayheads, the speed of the PTO or other hydraulic pump drive should be reduced to a minimum and then increased to the normal level once the units are running.
It is not normally necessary to stop the sprayheads every time the chemical flow is turned off. However, the sprayheads must always be stopped before folding spray booms or if there is the risk of accidental contact with foliage when turning at the end of a row.
5.5After Use
The entire sprayer must be emptied and flushed out with clean water or a suitable solvent after use. This eliminates the possibility of dried chemical residues blocking valves, restrictors or atomiser discs. This precaution is particularly important when using wetable powders as these will tend to sediment in the tank and pipework, causing serious blockages when the sprayer is next used.
The atomisers should be rotating during the flushing process to distribute the chemical and flushing liquid into the crop as spray droplets. This also ensures the most efficient cleaning of the atomiser discs.
6.0 HEALTH AND SAFETY
Any sprayer using Turbofan Sprayheads must be used by a qualified operator in accordance with the recommendations and statutory requirements for the use of sprayers and the product being sprayed.
These requirements will be set out in the applicable local legislation and in the label of the product being used.
In the United Kingdom, the precautions and regulations concerning the use of pesticides and sprayers are defined in the Code of Practice for the Use of Pesticides on Farms and Holdings (published by HMSO for the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the Health and Safety Commission).
The use of pesticides and sprayers are subject to legislation or codes of practice in most other countries. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that these are read, understood and complied with.
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