Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
4.
Hoses
Select neoprene, rubber, or plastic hoses that:
•
have burst strength greater than the peak operating pressures
•
have a working pressure at least equal to the maximum operating
pressure
•
resist oil and solvents present in pesticides
•
are weather resistant.
Suction hoses should be reinforced to resist collapse. They should be
larger than pressure hoses, with an inside diameter equal to or larger than the
inlet part of the pump. All fittings on suction lines should be as large as or
larger than the inlet part of the pump.
Keep hoses from kinking or being rubbed. Rinse them often, inside and
outside, to prolong life. During the off season, store the unit out of the sun.
Replace hoses at the first sign of surface deterioration (cracking or checking).
5.
Pressure Gauges
Pressure gauges monitor the function of the spraying system. They must
be accurate and have the range needed for your work. For example, a zero to
100 psi gauge with 2-pound gradations would be adequate for most
low-pressure sprayers.
Check frequently for accuracy against an accurate gauge. Excess pressure
will destroy a gauge. If yours does not zeroed, replace it. Use gauge protectors
to guard against corrosive pesticides and pressure surges.
6.
Pressure Regulators
The pressure regulator controls the pressure and, indirectly, the quantity of
spray material delivered by the nozzles. It protects pump seals, hoses, and
other sprayer parts from damage due to excessive pressure.
The bypass line from the pressure regulator to the tank should be kept
fully open and unrestricted and should be large enough to carry the total pump
output without excess pressure buildup. The pressure range and flow capacity
of the regulator must match the pressure range you plan to use and the capac-
ity of the pump. Agitation devices should never be attached to the bypass line
discharge. Pressure regulators are usually one of three types:
