Saturday, June 22, 2013

How A Variable Rate Fertilizer Spreader Operates

By Allyson Whitley


A variable rate fertilizer spreader is a machine that allows crop producers to apply compost at different rates at each individual location across fields. The technology used to accomplish this process includes equipment such as an in cab computer and software that is equipped with a field zone application map, GPS and a few others. The equipment varies depending on the type of compost and the general method of application.

A few major benefits can be reaped from the use of VR fertilizer spreaders. The most notable of them is the general cost efficiency of the method in terms of manure. The noticeable growth pattern in such a consistent manner is another one. Farmers can also choose to download field spreads that they can compare to using Google maps. The standard fertilizer spreader is capable of being upgraded to suit new agricultural choices.

Locations and the compost rate it possesses can be found with a field zone map. Application rates between zones may be changed with the utilization of a GPS unit found within the system that is vehicle mounted. Compost rates found across the fields are all direct results of electronic communication between the controller and the computer.

When starting things off, a commercialized fertilizer applicator possessing VR fertilization technology may be hired for best results. For a certain fee, the process of VR application can be added by commercial applicators. The purchasing equipment will cost more that the small acreages.

Fitting granular fertilizer spreaders or the alternative anhydrous ammonia applicator is a job done by the producers. Adding a hydraulic motor or a VR electric motor can allow for conveyor belt speed variation. To maintain its liquid form, the anhydrous ammonia applicator may given a heat exchanger and must be modified for it to be able to accomplish VR fertilization.

The process is reliant on GPS in order to maintain equipment positions constantly. As the equipment switches from one field management zone to another, the in cab computer is allowed to signal certain changes. The controller may need programming to account for the separation distance if the receiver is not directly mounted on the applicator.

The computer is a central component normally mounted on the vehicle cab. Several functions are performed by the computer, one of which is the operation of software programs allowing for the display of the fertilization application map.

Another is to record the GPS signal for the recognition of the vehicle real time position on the map. It also communicates signals for the purpose of the altering certain data to the controller. It also monitors vehicle speed and records the fertilization application map.

One negative thing to report is the lack of capability for more obsolete monitors to upgrade to new technologies. Newer controllers have to be purchased by producers if ever they want to get variable rate fertilizer spreaders for their own use. When looking for a new controller, take note of a few important functions including the function of controlling and varying various products at the same time and several others.




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