Sprayers Dismantled Machines in Ireland

Which Type of Sprayer to Choose?

The range of sprayers is roughly divisible into three main types.

Self-Propelled Sprayers

Self-propelled sprayers, as the name suggests, require no tractor or other vehicle to move around. These units are ideal for major operations and are geared up for extensive workloads. Tank size can be 6000 litres or more and the boom length up to 36 metres. Buying such a machine is clearly about getting the capacity and reach right for your land, but it is also about looking at the mechanicals and operating environment. In many ways, this is much like buying a tractor or a combine and you must be sure that the engine, transmission, controls and cab are all suitable for your use.

Tractor-Mounted Sprayers

A second type of sprayer is the mounted unit. These are fitted to the rear of the tractor and typically take their power from the tractor unit itself. Again, boom lengths and tank capacities tend to be smaller, with 800 to 1200 litre tanks and booms of around 16 metres more typical. Some manufacturers also offer a fourth type of specialist and often bespoke sprayer. These can have attributes such as high ground clearance or be customised to work with individual crops such as strawberries and vegetables.

Trailed Sprayers

The third type of sprayer is the trailed unit. These are far simpler, and cheaper, machines than the self-propelled range and can be smaller in both capacity and boom size. Boom size may be around 24 metres, although larger models are available.

Again, capacity is important as is the flow rate generated by the pump and the type of hitch involved. Some of these trailed units have air suspension for better stability and a more even spray. Others may boast steering axles and sophisticated electronic control systems.