Sprayer Update: Spray Equipment

A MATURING MARKET. Today’s diverse sprayer industry is a far cry from several decades ago, when contractors had few options to choose from. In the 1970s, two manufacturers, FMC and FE Myers, comprised about 95 percent of the sprayer market, recalled Garry Palmer, owner, GNC Industries, Pocahontas, Ark. "They made pumps, which are the heart of the equipment and did not sell to the aftermarket," he related. "Then in the early 1980s, the Italians came in with the diaphragm pump and now everyone could build (sprayers) in their garages."

The industry now has matured to a point that manufacturers are fully utilizing available technology to address their customers’ every requirement, observed Tom Sayward, president, Tuflex, Pompano Beach, Fla. "Everyone’s needs are being met," he noted. "The upshot: you dream it and we’re building it."

Such custom construction represents a dramatic shift from sprayer construction of years ago, which Palmer attributed to the slower evolution of the sprayer industry. "The market is not that large and historically hasn’t demanded much research and development," he observed.

TOP TRENDS. In terms of specific trends, sprayer versatility is increasingly critical. "Once upon a time, a contractor used three different trucks to go out to do three different things," Sayward recalled. "Now, one spray truck can go out and do multiple things, providing a range of service on a one-stop basis."

These all-purpose sprayers are now becoming more of a standard than the exception, Sayward added, noting that trucks with multiple compartments can now accommodate a riding fertilizer spreader or other equipment, for example, so contractors can go out on a property, spray and then take care of maintenance at the same time. "You have a captive audience when maintaining someone’s property," he pointed out, adding that these versatile spray trucks are helping contractors’ bottom lines by letting them increase efficiency while offering a range of services. "It’s coming back to having one piece of equipment that will generate the most revenue."

In addition to more versatile trucks, the sprayers can apply different treatments and a broader range of products with developments such as dual hose technology, customized pump capability or side mounting spray guns.

Increased application accuracy is also on the rise. "There has been a significant trend away from single compartment large tanker type trucks that are capable of blanket applications only," noted Rhett Clark, president, Gregson Clark, Le Roy, N.Y. "Application equipment has become more sophisticated and also less labor intensive to use. Multiple spray units and chemical injection systems have become much more accurate and dependable, allowing the operator to practice IPM efficiently and perform multiple services at each property."

Sprayers are now able to carry a smaller, concentrated amount of liquid, added Tab Grubbs, national sales director, C & S Turf Care Equipment, North Canton, Ohio. "In terms of broadleaf weed control, this yields better results because it develops a smaller droplet," he said.

With pesticide regulations constantly surfacing, increased application accuracy lessens safety concerns and reduces waste, Palmer pointed out. This, in turn, can save contractors in product costs. Better yet, converting to a newer, more accurate sprayer requires a minimal investment, generally less than $1,000, according to Palmer. "You can save that amount alone the first six months in reduced product costs."

The price is definitely right for contractors looking to invest in spray equipment: there is a sprayer out there to fit into most any kind of budget, Sayward observed. "There’s a huge spread of prices," he said. "From a small pickup sprayer at $3,500 to a full-blown turf/tree unit in excess of $35,000."

"Hand-held and backpack sprayers are ideal for limited spot applications with a price range from $30 to $250," Clark added, agreeing with the range of options available to contractors. "Mobile portable boom type sprayers can be mounted on push type spreaders, mowers and dedicated power units with a price ranging from $200 to $15,000."

"Skid-type, truck-mounted sprayers run $1,500 to $15,000. Pull-type and 3-point hitch mounted boom sprayers run $900 to $10,000, and complete spray trucks run $30,000 plus."

Equipment cost should not be a contractor’s only consideration when purchasing spray equipment. "Although price is always important, it is not nearly as important as the quality and versatility of equipment and the service commitment from a supplier," Clark warned.

MAKING THE INVESTMENT. Like any major equipment purchase, buying spray equipment should be a well thought out process. Here are a few questions to consider before investing:

• What size truck are you working with? Water weighs 8 pounds per gallon, so contractors need to know what their weight limitation is, Palmer advised.



• What application rate are you going to apply at? Before you can size the pump and engine, you need to know if you want three or five gallons per minute, for example, and then find a pump to do that, Palmer noted.

  "In terms of pump capability and volume, evaluate how many gallons per square feet per day you want to apply," Grubbs added.




• What kind of tank is needed? Poly or fiberglass? Agitation?



• What do you want the truck to do? Keep it simple, Sayward advised. A truck with a minimal amount of moving parts, for example, is a good idea. "Stick with the basics and a truck will make you money."

Answer these key questions before buying a sprayer, Clark advised. "Since a commercial quality sprayer can last many years, it’s important to consider both immediate and future use of the equipment," he said. "When considering a sprayer purchase, it’s best to talk with your suppliers at length about what your needs are in order to obtain the best possible solution for your spraying needs."

Knowing exactly what to look for in a sprayer can help a contractor avoid a maintenance nightmare later on. Making sure the pump is properly sized to the engine or that a filter is properly suited to suction lines, for example, will ensure optimum sprayer performance, Palmer pointed out.