Italy: New distribution nozzles

The effect detected in the dark thanks to a fluorescent substance added to the water

An event dedicated to the efficient distribution of pesticides through various types of nozzles was organised on 6th July 2017 at the Donati facility in Faenza. Over 50 technicians and producers took part. The event was promoted by Adama and Donati.

New nozzles were compared. To verify their effect, operators waited for the sun to go down, so a special light could be used to detect the (natural) fluorescent substance mixed in with the water.

"Pesticides are essential to protect orchards, but they're not the only solution. A correct use is necessarily linked to a correct distribution and sustainable use. In the past, we maybe focused more on the effectiveness of active principles rather than distribution, but now these two aspects are both essential," explained Luigi Mariani from Adama.

The three types of nozzles analysed were: a classic cone ATR 60°, air induction CVI antideriva 80° and air induction TVI 80°. The last two atomise each drop to the max.

Roberto Bulzoni and Agostino Cecchinato from Bulzoni - Centro di taratura mobile in Portomaggiore (Ferrara) regulated the nozzles. Mirco Casagrandi from Adama was in charge of the technical report.

Atomisers worked at 10 bar with 500 litres per hectares at a speed of 6 km/h. Three rows of Abate pears were sprayed with the three different nozzles. The solution was water mixed in with a fluorescent substance that could be detected with a special lamp.

The purpose of these tests was to verify the effectiveness of nozzles. First of all, sentinel cards were placed at different heights. During the debate it was said that, sooner or later, a buffer zone will be essential. That's why it will be essential to know how nozzles work.

It will be a true revolution as, while so far it's just a useful solution in theory (limiting undesired effects to improve efficiency and save money), it may become compulsory one day.

Tests showed that the new nozzles are more effective than traditional cone nozzles, which anyway remain a good compromise. In the future, however, it will be essential to choose the new models. Everything though will have to be adjusted according to the system, plant size, volumes and heights.

The only downside is that maintenance must be carried out more frequently.