Quickly Measure and Compare Nozzle Output
Nozzle flow testing is one of the most important steps in agricultural sprayer calibration. Measuring each nozzle individually makes it easier to find output differences that may not be visible during a general equipment inspection.
The SpotOn® Sprayer Calibrator Model SC-2 provides a digital flow-rate reading in approximately 10 seconds per tip. It measures flow from 0.02 to 2.25 GPM and automatically displays flow rate, nozzle wear percentage and application rate after the operator enters sprayer speed and nozzle spacing.
Instead of collecting liquid in a graduated container, timing the collection and completing manual calculations, applicators receive an immediate digital measurement that can be compared across the boom.
Find Worn, Clogged or Underperforming Spray Tips
Nozzles do not always wear or clog evenly. One tip may deliver too much product while another delivers too little, creating inconsistent application across the field.
The SC-2 allows operators to compare the actual output of each nozzle with its intended flow rate. Its nozzle wear setting displays the percentage that a tip is above or below the target, making it easier to determine which nozzles require cleaning or replacement.
Checking each nozzle helps operators:
- Identify excessive flow caused by nozzle wear
- Detect restricted flow from clogged tips or filters
- Compare performance across boom sections
- Confirm replacement nozzles are operating correctly
- Create a consistent baseline before spraying
Industry guidance generally recommends replacing a spray tip when its flow rate exceeds the new-tip rate by 10%.
Verify Pressure Where It Matters
A cab-mounted gauge displays pressure within the sprayer system, but it may not reflect the actual pressure reaching every nozzle. Restrictions, leaks and pressure loss within the boom can create differences between the gauge reading and tip performance.
The SpotOn® Spray Tip Pressure Tester measures pressure directly at the nozzle. It can be used to compare pressure across the boom, verify the sprayer’s pressure gauge and help locate problems within hoses, filters, nozzle bodies or boom sections.
Measuring pressure at the tip can help determine whether inconsistent output is being caused by the nozzle itself or by another part of the spray system.
Safely Clean Nozzles and Tip Components
Clogged spray tips should be cleaned carefully to avoid damaging the nozzle or changing its flow characteristics. Metal objects, knives and other improvised tools can scratch the nozzle opening and affect future spray performance.
The SpotOn® Nozzle Cleaner & Tip Tool combines a 50 PSI air blast with a plastic pick, brush, utility hook and spanner wrench. It provides applicators with purpose-built tools for cleaning spray tips, removing seals and maintaining nozzle components without using sharp metal objects.
After cleaning a clogged tip, measure its flow again to confirm that the restriction has been removed and the nozzle is operating within the desired range.
Evaluate Spray Pattern and Distribution
Correct flow and pressure do not always guarantee a uniform spray pattern. Damaged nozzles, incorrect spacing, poor boom height or improper overlap can still affect how spray is distributed.
The SpotOn® Mini-Patternator provides a portable way to visualize an individual nozzle pattern or the combined distribution beneath a spray boom. Operators can evaluate pattern shape, nozzle overlap and distribution uniformity without relying on visual observation alone.
Pattern testing is especially useful for:
- Comparing different nozzle types
- Identifying distorted spray patterns
- Demonstrating nozzle overlap
- Evaluating boom height and spacing
- Training applicators and students
- Troubleshooting uneven field performance
Document Spray Coverage and Droplet Deposition
Water-sensitive paper provides another important view of sprayer performance: what happens after droplets leave the nozzle.
SpotOn® Paper changes from yellow to blue when contacted by moisture, creating a visible record of droplet deposition. Place the paper within the target area to evaluate coverage, spray uniformity, droplet distribution and potential off-target application. Learn more about pesticide spray drift from the U.S. EPA.
Used alongside flow, pressure and pattern measurements, water-sensitive paper helps applicators confirm that sprayer settings are producing the intended result under real application conditions.
