Evaluation of two spray nozzles produced different materials

In this research, spray characteristics of new and worn fan pattern nozzles used in field sprayers were examined in Turkey. The fan pattern nozzles which are widely used and made from Plastic and Kamatal were tested. The nozzles used were worn by using Kaolin as a wearing material. Process of wearing was stopped when the changes in flow rate reached to 10%. The results obtained before wearing were compared with the results after wearing in terms of spray distribution, flow rate and droplet size. Life efficiency of the nozzles was determined according to 10% of flow rate. When spray nozzles examined in the experimental conditions were evaluated, useful life of Kamatal was 730 h, followed by plastic. When fan pattern nozzles are considered in terms of construction material, Kamatal was found to be the most resistant material.