J100 eLearning Course

Drone Spraying Field Operations: Key Considerations

This guide offers practical questions and considerations to help set up your truck and trailer for drone spraying, tailored to your specific operation.

1. Safety First

• PPE: Always carry gloves, goggles, protective clothing, and respirators (if needed), based on MSDS requirements.

• Clean Water & Soap: Keep a rinse tank and soap available for immediate decontamination in case of chemical spills.

• Drone Flight Safety:

  • Maintain line of sight to avoid connection loss and for FAA compliance.

  • Create a clear, obstacle-free space for takeoff and landing.

  • Use barriers or distance to protect yourself during launch and recovery in case of drone malfunction.

2. Chemical Mixing Options

• Drone Tank Mixing: Simple but inefficient.

• Bulk Premixing: Cost-effective using IBC totes or large tanks, but limits flexibility (can't adjust rate, risk of waste if plans change).

• Cone-Bottom Tanks: Two 30+ gallon tanks recommended. Fill with clean water, add measured chemical, and recirculate. Safer and more flexible than bulk mixing.

• Auto-Mixers: Systems like Agri Spray Drones’ automixer can save time—just ensure they are calibrated and perform jar tests for compatibility.

3. Label Compliance & Jar Testing

• Always read and follow product labels.

• Test product compatibility, especially at lower water volumes (e.g., 2 GPA vs. 15 GPA), to avoid separation and sludge.

• Fungicides are especially prone to settling and clogging filters and pumps.

4. Pumping Systems

• Choose a reliable transfer pump (gas or electric). Aim for a minimum of 20 GPM flow rate.

• Ensure continuous duty cycle if using the pump for recirculation.

• Filling should be fast—ideally under 30 seconds per tank.

5. Hoses & Nozzles

• Use ¾" minimum, 1" preferred. Reinforced suction hoses (green or yellow banded) help prevent kinking.

• Fill nozzles: ¾" or 1" with auto-shutoff work, but may foam or clog over time.

• For tight drone fill ports, use a filed-down 1" banjo valve with hose barb.