The Future Of Sprayer Calibration Is Here
Originally published on CropLife, February 2022
Gone are the days when the only viable option for sprayer calibration included multiple steps and formulas, counting and measuring, and guesstimating. To top it off, after the time was spent and the calculations were made, there was still a high percentage of error which could result in costly mistakes with over or under application of chemicals. Advancements in the field and innovative products from brands like SpotOn® have made a tedious task less-so, with readings in seconds, digital flow meters have changed the way sprayer calibration is performed and viewed.
Still using manual methods when calibrating your sprayer? Read on to see the tools that will save you time, provide you with accurate readings and aid in your crop’s success!
Why Is Sprayer Calibration Important?
A sprayer’s optimal performance, consistency and accuracy rely on precise calibration. Without it, over or under application of chemicals can occur; a costly mistake that can lead to damaged crops. Identifying worn spray nozzle tips will improve spraying efficiency, leveraging a sprayer’s performance.
SpotOn’s Sprayer Calibrators are one-of-a-kind tools that provide accurate readings in 10 seconds per tip, with this data, users can make any necessary adjustments. Industry guidelines recommend tip replacement once the flow rate exceeds that of the new tip by 10%. Additionally, accurately measuring true tip flow rate is now a prerequisite as today’s high-tech sprayers can only be properly calibrated and confirmed with this knowledge.
The Newest SpotOn® Sprayer Calibrator Model SC-2
Innoquest, Inc. the designer and manufacturer of precision meters for the agriculture industry since 1993, introduced their first SpotOn® Sprayer Calibrator Model SC-1 (SC-1) in 2009 and it quickly became their flagship product. They recently released the SpotOn® Sprayer Calibrator Model SC-2 (SC-2). The SC-2 is sure to impress both new and established users with its advanced features and improved functionality.
The SC-2 is suitable to measure flow rates of up to 2.25 GPM, up from its predecessor’s 1 GPM capacity with increased accuracy from +/- 2.5% to +/- 2%. Reliable readings are obtained quickly and easily, without the need for manual calculations or downloading of an app. Operation is simple, once the user has entered speed and nozzle spacing, the unit will automatically calculate and display the advanced features:
- Tip Flow Rate in GPM, LPM, oz/min
- Tip Wear in %
- Application Rate in GPA/LPH
Digital sprayer calibration is quickly becoming the go-to method for sprayer applicators around the world, join the crowds in streamlining the process – save time and get more accurate readings!
The SC-2 is available for purchase via dealers and distributors worldwide with a US list price of $179.00. To add the SC-2 or any SpotOn® tool to your product lineup, please visit innoquestinc.com.
SpotOn® SC-5 Universal Flow Meter
For larger capacities, enjoy the features provided by the SpotOn® SC-5 Universal Flow Meter (SC-5). As with SpotOn’s other meters, it offers precise measurements and provides easy-to-use functionality. This versatile unit can check flow rate for nozzles and sprayers in addition to faucets and showers up to 5 GPM, widening its market beyond just agriculture. Its digital display allows for easy-to-read measurements, minimizing human error during readings; efficient monitoring of water flow has never been easier.
Taking a measurement with the SC-5 is simple and the result is displayed in just seconds. Once powered on, the meter should be placed under the faucet/shower/nozzle to be tested. As the meter fills with water the LCD will begin flashing to indicate that a reading is in progress, as soon as water reaches the meter’s upper sensor, the flow rate is calculated and displayed. Flow rate readings can be displayed in either gallons per minute (GPM), liters per minute (LPM), or liters per hour (L/hr).
The SC-5 is available for purchase via dealers and distributors worldwide with a US list price of $239.00. To add the SC-5 or any SpotOn® tool to your product lineup, please visit innoquestinc.com.
More from SpotOn®
Award-winning quality agriculture tools for optimal sprayer performance from SpotOn®.
Perform preventative maintenance service to your sprayer tips and monitor your sprayer’s applications to run efficiently and reduce costs! Be sure to check out all the tools SpotOn® offers that will aid in your sprayer operations.
About Innoquest, Inc.
Since 1993 Innoquest president and licensed engineer Bill Hughes has designed over 75 products for the agriculture and greenhouse sectors, 19 of which have won AE-50 awards from the American Society of Agricultural Biological Engineers for outstanding innovation. The company is located in Woodstock, IL.
All tools are manufactured in the USA and come with a one-year warranty. For more details including where to make a purchase please visit innoquestinc.com or contact Dawn Robles, Sales Manager via email: sales@innoquestinc.com or phone: (W) 815-337-8555, (M) 815-271-2115.