Selecting the right tractor mounted sprayer is a crucial decision for any farmer. The right sprayer can significantly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of your pest control and nutrient application efforts. This buyer’s guide will help you choose the best tractor mounted sprayer based on farm size, crop type, and budget.
Understanding Mounted Sprayers
Mounted sprayers are designed to be attached to a tractor, making them ideal for large-scale farming operations. They offer a range of benefits including higher capacity, broader coverage, and more precise application compared to handheld or backpack sprayers. Key components of tractor mounted sprayers include the tank, pump, nozzles, and boom.
Farm Size
The size of your farm is a primary factor in determining the right sprayer. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:
Small Farms (Up to 50 Acres):
Tank Size: Opt for a tank capacity of 50-200 gallons. This size is manageable and reduces the frequency of refills.
Boom Width: A boom width of 20-30 feet is sufficient for covering small plots without excessive overlap.
Pump Type: Diaphragm pumps are effective for smaller tanks and provide consistent pressure.
Medium Farms (50-200 Acres):
Tank Size: Consider a tank capacity of 200-500 gallons to minimize downtime for refilling.
Boom Width: A boom width of 30-60 feet ensures efficient coverage of larger areas.
Pump Type: Piston or diaphragm pumps are suitable, offering robust performance and durability.
Large Farms (Over 200 Acres):
Tank Size: Large tanks with capacities of 500-1000 gallons or more are necessary for extensive coverage.
Boom Width: Wide booms of 60-100 feet or more reduce the number of passes needed, saving time and fuel.
Pump Type: Centrifugal pumps are ideal for high-volume spraying, providing powerful and reliable operation.
Crop Type
Different crops have varying spraying requirements. Tailoring your sprayer to the specific needs of your crops ensures optimal application and effectiveness.
Row Crops (Corn, Soybeans, Wheat):
Nozzle Type: Use flat fan nozzles for even coverage across rows.
Boom Height: Adjustable boom height is essential to maintain the correct distance from the crop canopy.
Spray Pattern: Choose a sprayer with consistent spray patterns to avoid uneven application and crop damage.
Orchards and Vineyards:
Nozzle Type: Hollow cone nozzles are effective for penetrating dense foliage.
Boom Configuration: Consider using air-assisted booms to improve spray penetration in tree canopies.
Spray Volume: High-volume sprayers are often required to ensure thorough coverage of fruit trees and vines.
Vegetables and Specialty Crops:
Nozzle Type: Use adjustable nozzles to accommodate different plant heights and densities.
Boom Versatility: A versatile boom that can be easily adjusted or detached is beneficial for navigating diverse crop arrangements.
Precision Application: Ensure the sprayer allows for precision application to prevent over-spraying and damage to sensitive crops.
The HOLSAN CAN 600 Tractor Mounted Sprayer: An Example of Excellence
For those looking for a robust and efficient option, the HOLSAN CAN 600 tractor mounted sprayer is an excellent choice. Here’s why:
Tank: It features a 600-liter anti-corrosive fiberglass tank with a hydraulic mixer, lockable lid, nybolt strainer, level indicator, and drain valve. This ensures durability and ease of use.
Pump: Equipped with an Imovilli M135 high-pressure 5-diaphragm pump, it delivers 115 liters (30.4 gallons) per minute at 0-50 bar, providing consistent and powerful spraying.
PTO Shaft: The standard, constant velocity shaft with an adjustable tow-bar enhances stability and control.
Turbo: An 800 mm fan with 8 blades and a stainless steel conveyor, with a gearbox set to 1950 – 2450 rpm, ensures even air distribution and effective spray coverage.
Controller: The tractor-mounted Braglia brand controller offers easy and precise operation.
Range: The sprayer provides an impressive range of 8 meters left and 8 meters right, totaling 16 meters.