Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
VII. SPECIALIZED APPLICATION EQUIPMENT
Some other types of application equipment do not fit into the common
categories. They include wiper applicators, irrigation application equipment,
and wax bars.
A. WIPER APPLICATORS
These devices are used to apply contact or translocated (systemic) herbi-
cides selectively to weeds in crop areas. Wicks made of rope, rollers made of
carpet or other material, or absorbent pads made of sponges or fabric are kept
wet with a concentrated mixture of contact herbicide and water and brought
into direct contact with weeds. The herbicide is "wiped" onto the weeds but
does not come in contact with the crop. Application may be to tall weeds
growing above the crop or to lower weeds between rows, depending on the
way the wiper elements are designed. Pumps, control devices, and nozzles are
minimal or are eliminated altogether, and tanks are quite small because of the
small amount of liquid applied.
Advantages:
•
low cost
•
simple to operate
•
no drift
reduces amount of pesticide used.
Limitations:
•
•
applicable only in special situations
•
difficult to calibrate.
B. IRRIGATION APPLICATION EQUIPMENT
This equipment adds herbicides to irrigation water. This has become a
common method for applying preemergence herbicides in most irrigated areas
of the United States, and it is also used to apply insecticides, fungicides, and
other pesticides. The pesticide is injected into the main irrigation stream with
a positive-displacement pump. Accuracy of calibration and distribution is
achieved by metering a large volume of dilute pesticide into the irrigation sys-
tem. Antisiphon and switch valves prevent contamination of the irrigation
water source or overflow into the slurry feed tank.
