Abstract
Technical testing of the equipment for the application of plant protection products (PPP) was performed in Southeastern Slovenia in the period from 2004 to 2013. The technical conditions of boom or orchard sprayers was examined in details and the following parts were checked: drive, anti-drip valves, nozzles, filters, pipes and tubes, manometers, all valves, pressure regulators, agitator, pump, liquid discharge, spray solution reservoir and spray boom or fan system. The analysis revealed a poor condition of most devices in the initial years. However, technical suitability improved drastically until 2013. Technical condition was not directly related to the region of inspection although the lowest number of defective sprayers was recorded in the Posavje region. This can be linked to higher frequency of use and maintenance of the sprayers in this region as it stands out as the area with larger farms. Occasional technical disorders of the equipment can be recorded each year. It is therefore essential to continue with regular technical inspection to ensure optimal and accurate functioning of the sprayers.
Highlights
Devices used for the application of plant protection products (PPP) are machines, which enable uniform application of PPP to the plant surface
Technical condition of spraying devices varied according to the year of inspection
The initial technical condition of spraying devices was poor, which can be ascribed to the general non-attendance at testing prior to 2002
Summary
Devices used for the application of plant protection products (PPP) are machines, which enable uniform application of PPP to the plant surface. Devices usually utilize water to dissolve and apply PPP and can be categorized as sprayers and air assisted sprayers (Mrhar, 1997). Technical flawless of the spraying equipment is crucial for optimal distribution of PPP. Up-to-date development of spraying equipment and its technical assistance and inspection are generally focused to ensure accurate PPP application (exact dosage, uniform distribution) and ameliorate other factors (such as working speed) (Roettele et al, 2011). Sprayers must provide exact application and uniform dosage of PPP during the entire lifespan of the device. To ensure their proper functioning, sprayers must be regularly tested and potential technical faults eliminated (Ganzelmeier, 2004a)
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