AGRICULTURAL MECHANISATION

CHEMICAL APPLICATION
Definition: In the context of agricultural mechanization, chemical application refers to the
process of applying various agricultural chemicals, such as pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or
growth regulators, to crops or agricultural landscapes using mechanical equipment and
machinery.

It involves the use of specialized agricultural machinery designed for the precise and efficient
application of chemicals to achieve specific objectives, such as pest control, weed management.
Disease prevention, or nutrient supplementation.

Types of chemical applications

There are several types of chemical application methods that are commonly used. These methods
vary depending on the specific objectives, the type of chemicals applied, and the characteristics
of the target crops or agricultural landscapes. Here are some common types of chemical
application in agricultural mechanization.

Spraying: Spraying is one of the most common method of chemical application. It involves the
use of sprayers, which can be mounted on agricultural vehicles or operated manually, to disperse
liquid chemicals over the target area. Sprayers can utilize different mechanisms such as
hydraulics nozzles to achieve uniform distribution of the chemicals.

Dusting: Dusting involves the application of powdered chemicals such as insecticides or

fungicides in the form of fine dust particles. It is typically done using mechanical equipment
known as dusters, which disperse the powdered chemicals over the crops or target area.

Seed treatment: Seed treatment involves coating or treating seeds with chemical substances
before planting. This is done to protect the seeds from pests, diseases or nutrient deficiencies.
Seeds treatments can be applied using specialized equipment that coats the seeds uniformly with
the desired chemical.

Soil incorporation: Some chemicals such as fertilizers are applied by incorporating them into
the soil. Agricultural machinery, such as fertilizers spreaders is used to distribute the chemicals
evenly across the soil surface.

Fertigation: Fertigation is a method that combines the application of water and fertilizers
simultaneously through an irrigation system. This is achieved by injecting liquid fertilizers into
the irrigation water, allowing for precise and targeted delivery.

Foliar application: Foliar application involves the spraying of liquid chemicals directly onto the
leaves of the plants. This method allows for the direct absorption of nutrient through the plant’s
foliage. It is often used for the application of foliar fertilizers, insecticides.
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Chemigation: Chemigation refers to the application of chemicals, such as fertilizers or

pesticides, through an irrigation system. It involves injecting the chemicals into the irrigation
water and distributing them to the crops during irrigation. This method ensures efficient and
uniform distribution of chemicals across the field.

These are just few examples of chemical application methods used in agricultural mechanization.
The choice of method depends on factors such as the specific goals, the type of chemical being
applied, the target crops, and the available equipment. It is always important to follow the
guidelines and safety precautions when utilizing chemical application methods.

The various mechanics used

Different mechanical components and systems are used in chemical application processes. These
mechanics ensure the accurate, efficient and uniform distribution of chemicals over the target
crops. Here are some of the different mechanics commonly used

Nozzles: Nozzles are essential components of spraying systems. They control the flow rate,
droplet size and spray pattern of the liquid chemical being applied, different nozzles are available
such as flat fan, hollow cone, or adjustable nozzles, each with specific characteristics suitable for
different spraying requirement.

Pumps: Pumps are used to pressurize the liquid chemical formulation and ensures their flow
through the spraying system. They provide the necessary pressure for the nozzles to atomize the
liquid into fine droplets for effective distribution.

Spreaders: Spreaders are mechanical components used in the distribution of powdered

chemicals, such as granular fertilizers. They are commonly found in equipment known as
fertilizers spreaders. Spreaders disperse the powdered chemicals evenly over the target surface,
ensuring uniform coverage.

Injectors: Injectors are used for incorporated soils or chemigation purposes. They inject liquid
chemicals into the soil or irrigation water, respectively. Injectors ensure precise and targeted
application of chemicals, either directly into the soil or mixed with irrigation water for even
distribution.

Agitators: Agitators are devices used to keep chemical formulation s well mixed and prevent
settlings. They are particularly important for liquid chemical formulations to ensure consistent
and homogenous application throughout the spraying process.

Calibration systems: Calibration systems are employed to ensure accurate application rates of
chemicals. These systems help farmers of operators calibrate the equipment by adjusting settings
such as flow rates, nozzles spacing , or ground speed to achieve the desired application rate for
the specific chemicals being used.
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Importance of chemical application

Chemical application plays a crucial role in agricultural mechanization and offers several
important benefits. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of chemical
application.

 Pest and disease control: Chemical application such as the use of pesticides, help
control and manage pest, insects and weed growth that can pose great threats to crop
yield and quality. Mechanized chemical application allows for precise and targeted
application, ensuring effective pest and disease control while minimizing the impacts on
non-targeted organisms.
 Nutrient management: Chemical application involves the use of fertilizers and soil
amendments to provide essential nutrients to plants. Mechanized systems allow for
precise application rates and placement, ensuring that crops receive the necessary nutrient
for optimal growth and yield. This helps farmers to maximize crop productivity.
 Time and labor efficiency: This reduces the time and labor required for applying
chemicals compared to the manual method. Agricultural machinery such as spreaders can
cover larger areas quickly, enabling farmers to treat their fields more efficiently. This
increases productivity and allows farmers to allocate their resources.
 Increased yield and quality: Proper application combined with other good agricultural
practices when mixed can lead to increased crop yield and improved quality. By
effectively controlling pests, diseases, wed, as well as proving necessary nutrients,
mechanized chemical application contributes to healthier plants, higher yields and
enhanced crop quality.
 Sustainability and resource optimization: Mechanical chemical application enables
farmers to optimize the use of agricultural inputs, including chemicals, water and
fertilizers. Accurate application rate and targeted placements minimize overuse or
underuse of chemicals, reducing environmental impacts and promoting sustainable
agricultural practices.

It’s important to note that responsible and judicious chemical application practices, following
recommended guidelines and safety precautions, are crucial to ensure the effective and
sustainable use of chemicals in agriculture. Regular monitoring, adherence to regulations,
and proper maintenance of equipment are essential for maximizing the benefits of chemical
application while maximizing potential risks.
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Working operation

Chemical application involves several working operations to ensure the accurate and efficient
distribution of chemicals. These operations include the following steps.

Selection and mixing of chemicals: The first step is to select the appropriate chemicals
based on the specific objectives, such as pest control, weed management or nutrient
supplementation. Farmers or operators need to carefully follow recommended guidelines and
safety precautions when handling and mixing chemicals. This includes wearing appropriate
protective equipment and ensuring proper storage and disposal of chemical.

Calibration of equipment: Before starting the application process, it is essential to calibrate

the equipment. Calibration involves adjusting settings such as flow rate, calibration ensures
accurate and consistent application, minimizing the risk of under or over application.

Preparation of equipment: The spraying equipment needs to be prepared for chemical

application. This includes checking for any mechanical issues or blockages in the equipment,
ensuring proper functioning of the pump, agitators, and other components. The equipment
should also be cleaned and filled with the appropriate amount of water or carrier solution
required for mixing the chemicals.

Loading and mixing of chemicals: Once the equipment is prepared, the chemicals are
loaded into the equipment’s tank. It is important to follow the recommended mixing ratio and
procedures to ensure the proper dilution and mixing of chemicals with the carrier solution.
Agitation systems within the equipment help maintain a consistent mixture throughout the
application process.

Application process: With the equipment loaded and properly mixed, the application
process begins. The operator drives the agricultural vehicle or operates the equipment
manually, moving through the field or target area at a steady pace. The spraying or spreading
mechanism, such as nozzles or spreaders, distributes the chemicals over the crops in a
controlled manner.

Monitoring and adjustments: Throughout the application process, the operators monitor
the equipment’s performance, ensuring uniform coverage and consistent application rates.
Any issues or irregularities, such as clogged nozzles or uneven distribution, should be
addressed promptly.

It is crucial to adhere to safety guidelines, regulations and environmental considerations

throughout the chemical application process. Responsible practices, such as avoiding
application near water bodies or sensitive areas, following recommended dosage rates, and
minimizing drift, are essential for the effective and sustainable use of chemicals in
agricultural mechanization.
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