Spreader
Calibration by SCS
Tray
testing and calibration is the only way to ensure accurate application
whether the machinery is old or new. Two items must be considered when
calibrating a spreader. The first is the distribution pattern of the
spreader. That is, the pattern the product makes as it strikes the ground
after being thrown out by the spreader's impeller. There are many factors
that affect the distribution pattern of a rotary spreader and some of
them relate directly to the product. For this reason, we recommend that
the spreader be calibrated separately for every product to be applied.
Spreader calibration should be checked at least once a month, or more
often when the spreader is used frequently.
The second item is the product application rate, which is the amount
of product applied per thousand square feet. This is important because
over-application can be costly and may cause plant injury, while under-application
will reduce the effectiveness of the product.