Droplet size spectra and atomization properties of tank mixes – measurements and analysis

by

Russ Stocker and Ken Giles

Contact: Russ Stocker   e-mail: rlstocker@earthlink.net

Summary:

The effects of tank mix properties on spray atomization were measured in wind tunnel experiments using a range of typical nozzles and adjuvants.  Effects of pressure, nozzle orientation and airspeed were determined over a range of conditions commonly used by aerial applicators.   A simple method of estimating the properties of tank mixes is being investigated and potentially could be adopted for use by individual applicators.  The method is based on measuring the response of the liquid to vibrations similar to those produced by spray nozzles.   By monitoring the vibration, the relative atomization and resulting droplet size of the liquid may be predicted in the field without extensive wind tunnel testing.  Preliminary work conducted in the wind tunnel has demonstrated that the driftable fraction of various tank mixes for one nozzle (4006), orientation (0 degrees), pressure (40 psi) and airspeed (150 mph) ranges from 13.2% for water to 26.0% SI100, 28.0% Mist Control to as high as 33.9% for a popular herbicide. These ranges in the atomization profile of a tank mix have a significant affect on spray quality classification. The value to the aerial application industry to predict the atomization profile of a tank mix will be valuable tool in application quality and drift management.

Manuscript not available online; please contact author for manuscript information.

<Select for Presentation Slides>