Correct method for adjusting fertilizer amount with a fertilizer applicator

Basic principles and steps of adjusting fertilizer amount with a fertilizer applicator

1. Confirm the type and density of fertilizer

The density difference between different fertilizers (granular fertilizer, powdered fertilizer, etc.) is significant, which directly affects the amount of fertilizer applied. For example:

• The density of urea particles is about 0.75 g/cm ³, and the recommended amount per mu is 20-30 pounds (refer to the 2022 version of the Chinese Agricultural Mechanization Standard).
• The density of compound fertilizer is about 0.9 g/cm ³, and it is recommended to weigh 25-40 pounds per acre.

2. Calibrate the transmission system of the fertilizer applicator

• Idle test: Start the machine to check if the belt and chain are slipping, ensuring stable speed.
• Adjust the opening and closing degree: Control the opening degree of the fertilizer box gate through the handwheel or electronic screen. It is recommended to initially open it to 50%, and then adjust it according to the actual fertilizer amount.

3. Field testing and correction

• Take a 10 meter long plot of land for trial spraying, collect the ground fertilizer and weigh it. For example, if the target is 100 pounds per acre, the theoretical fertilizer amount within 10 meters should be 1.5 pounds (calculated based on a row spacing of 30cm). If the actual amount is 2 pounds, the gate opening needs to be reduced by 25%.

Accurate adjustment method for 100 pounds of fertilizer under the spreader

1. Mechanical fertilizer spreader adjustment (taking the common model "Fulaiwei 2F-100" as an example)

• Step 1: Rotate the bottom adjustment handwheel of the fertilizer box, with each grid corresponding to 5 pounds/acre, and the target of 100 pounds needs to be turned to the 20th grid.
• Step 2: Check the speed of the fertilizer shaft. If the instruction manual states "200 revolutions per minute corresponds to 80 pounds per acre", it needs to be increased to 250 revolutions per minute (linear calculation).

2. Electronic control fertilizer spreader adjustment

• Enter target value: Set 100 pounds/acre on the control panel, and the system will automatically match the gate opening and speed.
• Manual correction: If the actual fertilizer deviation exceeds ± 5%, it is necessary to enter the "Advanced Settings" to fine tune the PID parameters (refer to Chapter 12 of the equipment manual).

Adjustment techniques in different scenarios

1. Slope operation: Fertilizer is prone to accumulate in lower areas, it is recommended to increase the target amount by 10% -15%.

2. Adhesive fertilizer: If organic fertilizer is prone to clumping, the gate opening should be increased by 20% and the rotation speed should be increased by 10% (refer to the "Technical Guidelines for Mechanized Application of Organic Fertilizer").

 Common parameter comparison table

Fertilizer type density (g/cm ³) Recommended fertilizer amount (jin/mu) Gate opening benchmark

Urea 0.75 20-30 40% -60%

Compound fertilizer 0.9 25-40 50% -70%

Organic fertilizer 0.65 50-80 70% -90%

Matters needing attention:

• Every time the fertilizer is changed, it needs to be recalibrated.
• Regularly clean the fertilizer box to avoid blockages, especially for powdered fertilizers.
• Electronic devices need to be protected from moisture, and mechanical components should be lubricated weekly (recommended ISO VG68 standard).