Self Propelled Orchard Sprayers For Sale

About Self-Propelled Orchard Sprayers

Along with pull-type and 3-point/mounted models, self-propelled sprayers make up the primary types of orchard sprayers used today to control weeds, disease, and insects. While the first sprayers developed for general agriculture purposes date to the late 1800s using horse and then steam power, the first modern air-assisted, or “air blaster,” orchard sprayers are believed to have appeared in the 1960s. Today’s self-propelled orchard sprayers include tractor-based models designed for viticulture purposes, high-clearance and height- and axle-adjustable models for working with varying crop heights, and long automobile-like models built on light but durable chassis designed to more easily maneuver in and out of trees and under low-hanging limbs. Besides apple, citrus, and nut trees, self-propelled orchard sprayers are used to treat berries, grapes, olives, and other specialty crops.

Tools Of The Trade

Modern self-propelled orchard sprayers can include a long list of components and features, including customizable options. Besides diesel engines, models may variously feature electrostatic technology, individually adjustable nozzles, tower structures with multiple fans to spray taller vines and direct spray higher into canopies, hydraulically adjustable and self-leveling boom systems, flotation tires that minimize soil compaction, and automated guidance systems. Other features and components may include diaphragm or piston pumps, hydraulic jet agitation systems, joystick controls, multi-speed gearboxes to vary fan speeds, axial and centrifugal fans with multiple blades, pressure regulators, anti-corrosive stainless steel and poly tanks, and control valves. Cabs, meanwhile, may be pressurized and provide air conditioning and heating, use carbon filters to protect against chemical and dust infiltration, and provide digital control panels and adjustable steering wheels.

Enhanced Functionality

In recent years, self-propelled orchard sprayer manufacturers have increasingly worked to offer finer control of the application of droplets to minimize sprayer drift, and have incorporated hoods, shields, deflectors, and curtains. Other safety-related features include improved tank- and nozzle-rinsing and washing systems. Further recent refinements include lighting systems enabling night spraying, as well as improved capabilities for handling steep slopes and combatting windy and dry conditions. Air-assisted models have been greatly improved over the decades and remain a prevalent choice among operators; these models use pumps and fans to generate huge volumes of air and liquid-chemical mixtures moved into trees canopies or across crop rows. Some manufacturers offer retro-fitting kits for upgrading or enhancing existing sprayers.