Developing the USDA ARS Spray Nozzle Models for Rotary Wing Applications
2017
Fritz, Bradley K. | Fritz, W Clint
Optimizing aerial spray applications requires proper setup of the sprayer system, particularly with respect to nozzle selection and operation, which significantly affects spray deposition, product efficacy, and spray drift. Droplet size from an aerial application is a function of the combination of nozzle type, nozzle orifice size, spray pressure, orientation angle, and airspeed of the aircraft. A set of computational models for 14 commonly-used aerial application nozzles were developed and released for use by applicators. These models allow applicators to determine the droplet size characteristics associated with their specific nozzle and operational setup, determining the proper combination of orifice, pressure, orientation, and airspeeds from 22 to 54 m/s (50 to 120 mph), which are commonly-associated with applications made from rotary wing aircraft (i.e., helicopters). Both spreadsheet and smartphone user interfaces are available for applicators to use to ensure that their application conforms to the legal droplet size requirements specified on an agrochemical product label.
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