In-swath spray deposition characteristics of low drift nozzles and rotary atomizers for low volume aerial application
By
Yanbo Huang, Steven Thomson
Contact: Dr. Yanbo Huang E-mail: yanbo.huang@ars.usda.gov
Summary:
Three nozzle and atomizer configurations: CP Flat-Fan (with selectable tips), Accu-flo (0.016 needles), and Micronair Rotary Atomizer (AU5000 with deflectors) were evaluated for droplet spectra and coverage using water sensitive papers placed in the spray swath. This study used low application volumes (1, 2, and 3 GPA) and three different application heights (12, 16, and 20 feet) as measured precisely by laser mounted in the aircraft. Nozzle angles and flowrates were adjusted for the CP flat-fan nozzles (using appropriate tips according to required flowrate). With the interaction of these application variables the droplet spectrum of the water sensitive papers over the spray swath were calculated to produce Dv0.1, Dv0.5, Dv0.9 , relative span, and % fines. The effects of application height, flowrate and nozzle angle (for the CP), and weather variables on the droplet spectrum, droplet density, and coverage were determined statistically. CP data were compared with output from the available USDA Droplet Spectrum Models at the three low volumes, and spray patterns in the swath for all nozzles/atomizers were evaluated.
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