Rotary fertilizer spreader

Types of rotary fertilizer spreaders

Rotary fertilizer spreaders are specialized agricultural tools used for broadcasting granule materials over a specified area. They are ideal for spreading compost, seeds, fertilizer, snow, and other granular material. There are two main types of rotary spreaders as described below:

• Confined Rotary Spreaders

  These spreaders are controlled within a specific boundary with the help of a spreading disc. The particles are thrown out on a defined path by the rotation of the disc. The distance they spread will depend on the rotational speed, size of the disc, and size of the material.

• Unconfined Rotary Spreaders

  Such spreaders are not limited to a specific area when material dissemination occurs. The spreading of fertilizer or any other material happens in a radius around the spreader due to the rotation of the disc. The spreader can be ideal for large area coverage but can also lead to over-spreading and under-spreading inconsistencies.

Another way of categorizing rotary fertilizer spreaders is based on the method of operation.

• Gravity Feed Rotary Spreader

  This type of spreader relies on gravity to disperse fertilizer or seeds onto the soil. The fertilizer is dropped onto a rotating disk through an opening at the top. As the disk rotates, the material is flung outward evenly across a predetermined area. This spreader is commonly used for small to medium-sized fields where precision spreading is not critical. One advantage of a gravity feed rotary spreader is that it tends to be less expensive than other models. However, the accuracy of spread patterns may be affected by the size and weight of the fertilizer particles.

• Flow Control Rotary Spreader

  A flow control rotary spreader is designed to distribute fertilizer or other granular materials uniformly across a designated area by controlling the amount of material released through an aperture. This type of spreader uses a rotating disc to broadcast the material in a fan-shaped pattern as it drops from the chute at a controlled rate. Flow control spreaders work well for spreading fertilizer in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields where precise application is important. By adjusting the size of the opening, the operator can regulate how much material falls and ensure the correct amount is applied to meet the needs of the soil and plants. Using a flow control rotary spreader promotes healthy growth while preventing waste of fertilizer and negative environmental impact.

Specifications and maintenance of rotary fertilizer spreaders

Specifications

These are key components of a rotary spreader for fertilizer.

• Fertilizer spreader capacity: The amount of fertilizer a spreader can hold is known as its spreader capacity. Spreaders often hold more granular fertilizers. The spreader's efficiency will increase with spreader capacity.
• Working width: The distance over which fertilizer will be spread is its working width. The area covered per rotation will increase as the spreader’s diameter increases, reducing the number of passes needed to fulfill the spreading requirement.
• Fertilizer spreader weight: Spreaders can be either hand-held or fitted on machinery. Spreaders that have their own weight will reduce the load on the operator. But, heavier spreaders will need more power to move them and spread the fertilizer.
• Adjustment features: Rotary spreaders have fixed or adjustable spreading widths and flow rates. Adjustable features allow operators to customize spreading based on soil and crop conditions, ensuring efficient fertilizer use and minimizing waste.
• Mounting: Rotary spreaders can be mounted on the tow bar of tractors or vehicles for pulled spreaders and on the 3-point linkage for hitch spreaders. These are important for the safe and efficient transportation of the spreader with the vehicle used for spreading fertilizer.
• Feed system: The feeding mechanism in a spreader determines how fertilizer is released into the spinning plate. A drop system is based on gravity, while a roller feeder uses a conveyor belt.
• Power source: Powered spreaders use hydraulic, electric or mechanical power to operate the spindle for spreading fertilizer uniformly.

Maintenance

Both the accurate spreading of fertilizer and the longevity of the rotary spreader require regular maintenance. This is especially true for those spreaders that are attached to other machinery.

• Daily Checks and Cleaning: This is the most important part of any machine's maintenance. Inspection should be a part of the routine post-cultivation activities. Loose, worn out, corroded or damaged parts should be inspected. Any fertilizer residue should be cleaned to avoid corrosion and clogs, especially the rotating discs and spreader plates. Corrosion and rust can quickly damage the spreader plate, disc and any other metal parts. One should also store the spreader in a dry place away from any chemicals that could cause corrosion.
• Weekly Tasks: Lubricate all the moving parts, axles, gearboxes, and bearings, as well as any pivot or lock pins, to ensure smooth functioning and not create any undue strain on the machinery that they may be connected to. Belts and cables should be checked for wear or stretching and adjusted or replaced as needed.
• Monthly Maintenance: Monthly jobs need to be done to keep the spreader working well. The gearbox and bearings' oil levels should be checked, as should chain tension in the drive system to ensure that none of the machinery it is connected to is overstrained. Cleaning the spreader ensures that any wear and tear are visible and can be noted immediately.
• Seasonal Care: If spreaders are not used for a long time, they should be stored in a dry place so that no rust develops. They should be protected with oil or rust-inhibiting compounds. In storage places, rodents and insects need to be repelled to prevent any infestation damage.

Scenarios of Rotary fertilizer spreaders

Rotary spreaders are not limited to the application of fertilizers alone. Here are some common uses for the rotary spreader, apart from spreading fertilizer.

• Grass Seed

  Rotary spreaders are oftentimes used by homeowners to not just apply fertilizer but also to spread grass seed. Using rotary spreaders to spread grass seeds allows for an even and consistent distribution throughout the desired area. It will also help the seeds to take root and make for a healthy lawn.

• Ice Melt and Salt

  During winter months or in areas that are notoriously known for being icy and cold, many people use rotary spreaders to apply de-icing agents such as salt to sidewalks, driveways, and roads so as to prevent ice from forming and making the surfaces slippery. Using a rotary fertilizer spreader for this helps with an even distribution of salt, preventing damage to surfaces and reducing the formation of ice.

• Herbicides and Pesticides

  Rotary spreaders can be used to apply herbicides and pesticides evenly to control weeds, unwanted pests and to protect valuable plants and flowers. For better accuracy, it is advised to use rotary spreaders to apply herbicides and pesticides when there is little to no wind.

• Mulch

  Rotary spreaders can be used to apply mulch to flower beds and trees. They aid in regulating soil temperature, preventing weed growth, and retaining moisture. Applying mulch with a rotary spreader allows for uniform distribution of mulch material, which is beneficial for plants and saves time as opposed to manual application methods.

• Topsoil

  Applying topsoil with a rotary spreader can help create an even layer of nutrient-rich soil across a designated area, which can promote healthy grass and plant growth.

How to choose rotary fertilizer spreaders

Both home and commercial gardeners want a fertilizer spreader they can depend on, which can apply the right amount of fertilizer evenly. Rotary spreaders generally have a bigger coverage area, which is better for people with larger gardens or for commercial use. When searching for a rotary fertilizer spreader for sale, it's best to find quality spreaders in various sizes. The type of fertilizer and the kind of landscaping will determine what kind of spreader will be best suited for it.

• Durable Material

  A fertilizer spreader will come in many materials, the two most common being plastic and stainless steel. A plastic spreader is generally cheaper but can break down easily over time due to UV rays in the sunlight. Plastic hoppers are lighter, but the weight of the material is an important factor in spreading consistency. Stainless steel is a more durable material and is corrosion-resistant, but it is also heavier, which can have a negative impact on handling and spreading.

• Comfort and Control

  Look for features like an adjustable flow rate, a one-handed control system, and a shut-off mechanism. Your customers will appreciate spreaders with shut-off mechanisms that help prevent wasting fertilizer and accidental spills. Ergonomic controls that allow one-handed operation and flow rate adjustment promote user-friendly operation and comfort during use.

  An adjustable, cushioned grip is important for smaller and shorter users. A padded handle can help to lessen the amount of vibration transferred to the user. A spreader with a height-adjustable handle can make it easier to operate at different user heights. Spreaders should ideally have controlled deflection spread patterns to allow the user to control the spreader with one hand while walking at a normal pace.

• Weight

  The spreader's weight affects its operation and the amount of fertilizer it can carry. A lighter spreader is easier to move around, but it will need to be weighted down to ensure an even spread. Heavier spreaders can become cumbersome to handle if they are over 50 lbs in weight. Ideally, compact spreaders weigh around 20 lbs. Entry-level models around 30 lbs. and mid-range and large models can weigh anything between 50 and 100 lbs.

• Size of Hopper

  Hopper sizes vary from 20 lbs. and upwards, with commercial spreaders having anything up to a 250 lbs. capacity or more. For larger areas, there has to be more of a fertilizer capacity, which is why bigger hoppers are used in commercial and agricultural settings.

Q&A

Q: What types of materials do rotary fertilizer spreaders handle?

A: Rotary spreaders can apply various dry materials, such as granules, seeds, lime, fertilizer, sand, and filler substances. For any special circumstances, the material's size, shape, and flow-ability should be analyzed to ensure a uniform spread.

Q: What is the difference between trailed and mounted fertilizer spreaders?

A: A trailed spreader is towed behind a vehicle, which gives it wider coverage but less flexibility in turning. A mounted spreader is attached to the rear of the vehicle, offering easier turns but generally a smaller coverage area.

Q: What is the period for performing regular checks on the fertilizer spreader?

A: It is generally recommended to carry out monthly checks when the machine is not in use, and weekly checks during the period of regular use. Always refer to the manufacturer's manual for specific guidance.

Q: How can one ensure even fertilizer distribution when using a rotary spreader?

A: To achieve uniform spreading, the operator can maintain a consistent walking speed, overlap the spreader's pattern slightly, apply the fertilizer under dry conditions, and adjust the spreader settings based on the material's properties and the target area's characteristics.

Q: Can a rotary fertilizer spreader be used for other materials besides fertilizer?

A: Yes, a rotary spreader is a versatile machine that can handle other granular and dry materials, such as seeds, sand, and ice melt. Nevertheless, it is essential to change the spreader setting and cleaning thoroughly before and after use.