SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 2003
STP11118S

Pulse Width Modulated Sprays for Flow Rate and Droplet Size Control: Spray Dynamics and Field Performance

Source

Agrochemical application is made under the simultaneous demands of efficacious deposit, management of off-site movement including drift, and high time and labor productivity of the operation. Control of nozzle flow rate and droplet size provides the means to maintain efficacy while increasing productivity and reducing spray drift. Additionally, the maintenance of desired droplet size spectra while applying a variable rate prescription maintains the quality of the application job. Pulse width modulation is a technique that allows independent control of flow rate, droplet size and spray dynamics. Individual nozzles are controlled by dedicated solenoid valves closely coupled to the nozzle. The working range of rate control can be expanded to approximately 8:1, far beyond that of conventional pressure modulation. The technique has been integrated into an electronic control system for retrofit to existing rate control electronics. Laboratory and field testing has established the performance and utility of the design.

Author Information

Giles, DK
University of California, Davis, CA
Downey, D
University of California, Davis, CA
Kolb, T
Capstan Ag. Systems, Inc., Topeka, KS
Grimm, JG
Capstan Ag. Systems, Inc., Topeka, KS
Price: $25.00
Contact Sales
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Developed by Committee: E35
Pages: 119–133
DOI: 10.1520/STP11118S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5479-7
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-3453-9