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Materials selection for agricultural spray nozzles

A two page technical note from Harper Adams University College, discussing the relative merits of plastic, metallic and ceramic materials for agricultural spraying.

Year of Publication2010

Selection of nozzle material, type and size is essential for the successful application of agricultural chemicals. The nozzle is a major factor in determining the amount of spray applied to an area, the uniformity of application and drift. Nozzles can be made from plastic, metallic or ceramic materials. The most commonly used is nylon, which is less wear resistant than ceramics, but offers good resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel has higher corrosion resistance, but does not offer better wear resistance. Ceramic nozzles are more expensive than metals and plastics, but have very high wear resistance making them suitable for higher flow rates, such as orchard spraying. It is important to consider a range of factors in selecting a suitable nozzle material, including the chemical being used, the manufacturer’s guidelines, operational conditions and flow rate.

This item is categorised as follows

• Subject Collection > Equipment > Agricultural equipment
• Subject Collection > Arable & industrial crops
• Subject Collection > Equipment
• Subject Collection > Equipment > Operation
• Subject Collection > Equipment > Design, innovation & technologies
• Subject Collection > Arable & industrial crops > Nutrition & fertilisers
• Subject Collection > Arable & industrial crops > Pest & disease control

Additional keywords/tags

materials sciencepesticideherbicideagricultural engineeringfertiliser