Boom height
The vertical distance measured from the spray nozzles to the target surface, such as the soil or the crop canopy.
Также говорят: nozzle height, boom level
Proper boom height is essential for ensuring uniform spray distribution and minimizing off-target drift. If the boom is too low, the spray patterns from adjacent nozzles will not overlap sufficiently, leading to streaks or gaps in coverage. Conversely, setting the boom too high significantly increases the risk of drift, as smaller droplets have more time to be carried away by wind currents.
The optimal height is determined by the nozzle spray angle and the spacing between nozzles on the boom. Ideally, the patterns should overlap at the target height to ensure consistent application across the entire width. Most agricultural setups aim for a specific overlap percentage, typically requiring careful calibration whenever the nozzle type or spacing is changed.
A common mistake is failing to adjust the height when moving between fields with different crop stages or uneven terrain. Using manual height settings on undulating ground often leads to erratic application rates. Utilizing automated boom height control systems is the industry standard for maintaining consistent performance regardless of field topography.