Sensitivity of a Hand-cranked Nursery Spreader to Operator Variables

Hand-cranked rotary spreaders are used to apply granular pesticides to container crops. Pattern was affected by several variables that are controlled by the operator. A sensitivity study was conducted with a typical hand-cranked spreader to determine which operator variables most affected the distribution pattern. Impeller height had little effect. Pattern slide setting had an important effect. Reducing cranking speed affected the pattern; increasing cranking speed did not. Roll angle affected pattern if the right side was angled down, but not if the left Side was angled down. Pitch angle affected the pattern only if the spreader was pitched down. Yaw angle had a major impact on pattern regardless of direction. Width of bed (i.e. distance between spreader passes) affected pattern uniformity.