Sprayer Nozzle Selection Guidelines

The ideal sprayer nozzle provides precise application to reduce drift and waste while still providing excellent coverage. Sprayer nozzle selection considers three important details. First and foremost, the nozzle must allow for maximum efficacy of the product. Second, the design and use of the nozzle should minimize the risk of product drift. Third, the specifications of the nozzle must ensure compliance with all product label regulations regarding flow rate and drop size.

In general terms, the following guidelines will assist you in selecting the correct sprayer nozzle:

1. Determine the required application rate in gallons per acre (GPA) based on table regulations, field conditions and water supply.
2. Designate a practical ground speed in miles per hour (MPH).
3. Calculate the spray width (W). The nature of the sprayer nozzle—broadcast, band, or direct—will direct the spray width.
4. Compute the flow rate in gallons per mile (GPM). There is a simple formula for making this computation: GPM=(GPA x MPH x W)/5,940. (5,940 is a constant that converts the combination of GPA, MPH, and inches to GPM.)
5. Select the sprayer nozzle that will give you the desired GPM and the pressure (PSI) recommended on the label.

Barndoor Ag has just the nozzles and sprayer tips you need to optimize application of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, minimize waste, reduce drift, provide excellent coverage and distribute product efficiently over a wide range of pressures. Our team of ag sprayer experts will help you find sprayer nozzles, tips and accessories that are built to perform.