Equipment handling
To assure proper operation of the spreader, the inspection and maintenance of mechanisms that deliver the granular product to the distributor and air systems are very important. As fertilizer materials are highly abrasive and corrosive, it is advisable to keep a regular inspection and maintenance routine on these devices. Consult the operator’s manual provided by the manufacturer for detailed maintenance instruction.
Travelling speed & engine operation speed
The operation of most broadcast type spreaders requires a steady field speed and engine operation speed (rpm). Any change in the engine rpm will result in proportional change in the fertilizer application flow. The tractor engine rpm controls the PTO (power take off) rpm, thus significantly affecting the spreading width. Spreader operator manuals provide information on the pecific range of PTO and engine rpm standards for precise spreading.
Overlap patterns
When using a broadcast spreader, overlapping is necessary to distribute fertilizer equally over the entire field. To do this, operators visually observe the adjacent spreader wheel tracks in order to accomplish parallel swaths in the field, as shown in the illustration.
Spreader overlap
To monitor fertilizer distribution, collection trays can be placed in the field. The actual fertilizer applied after one overlap travel is gathered, and then collected from each tray and transferred into test tubes in order to evaluate the actual spread pattern. An uneven spread pattern may be the result of an improper boom level or uneven rotor operation.
Next: Fertilizer Spreader Calibration
Check out our new Fertilizer Conversion Calculator!
