NOZZLE WEAR

The rate at which nozzles wear depends on the abrasiveness of the liquid, the pressure used and the material that the nozzle is made of. A worn nozzle means that spray quality and spray pattern will both be compromised. Even with the most sophisticated flow rate governed sprayer this means that the operator loses control of these two most important spraying parameters.

MATERIALS

Polyacetal

Provides good resistance to most chemicals and superior resistance to wear with most agricultural chemistry. Susceptible to strong mineral acids and a few organic solvents. Resistance to most alkalis is excellent. Organic solvents usually cause slight swelling without any other harmful effect.

Ceramic

Highly resistant to abrasive and corrosive chemistry and provides superior wear resistance in abrasive applications and high pressures.

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)

Should be used with acid-based agricultural defoliation chemistry. Good resistance to wear. Resists many reagents and temperatures up to 300ºF. Susceptible to high temperatures above water boiling (210ºF) in combination with concentrated sulphuric and nitric acids. Preferred in industrial spraying applications.

Stainless steel

Good resistance to chemicals and provides average wear resistance.

Brass

Average resistance to most chemistry and poor wear resistance. Susceptible to corrosion especially with fertilisers.

CARE OF NOZZLES

Hypro spray nozzles are precision-engineered components. Always keep a new nozzle from a set and compare used nozzles with it to assess their condition over time. Nozzles should be replaced when their output (flow in litres per minute) has increased by 10% or more and at least every year. This can be assessed by reference to nozzle selection charts. To clear blocked nozzles, soak in water and clean with a brush and airline. For stubborn deposits soak in warm water and detergent, agitating occasionally. Never blow through a nozzle or poke with wires or pins – even the slightest damage to the orifice will alter flow rate angle and spray distribution.

Care of filters

Check filters regularly, cleaning out any debris under running water. Replace filters which are damaged to prevent blocked nozzles.