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INTRODUCTION
Root washing is an essential but time consuming and labour intensive precursor
to the measurement and analysis of root structure. Anything that can help
automate this task is highly desirable. The Delta-T Root Washer has evolved
from a design used by CSIRO Cunningham Laboratory in Brisbane, Australia.
This was modified by Kirchhof & Pendar (authors of the Delta-T SCAN image
analysis software) who produced designs for a do-it-yourself kit published in the
Delta-T SCAN User Manual. The Kirchhof/Pendar design has been further
improved by Delta-T, and is more rugged and easier to use and service.
BASIC ROOT WASHER
The Root Washer Basic, type RWB comes complete with four buckets with a
central overflow downpipe and two nozzle jets. These are mounted on a
corrosion resistant table with four filters mounted in funnels underneath. Water is
fed to the buckets via a series of hoses and connectors from a mains water supply.
The basic root washer has a four-tap connector which enable the user to turn off
and adjust the water to each bucket when required.
For optimum performance a pressure of 50 to 70 psi and a flow rate of 10 gallons
per minute is required. The UK mains water pressure is about 40 psi, just a bit
less than ideal, but still useable.
OPTIONAL TANK
This is a shallow, cylindrical, open topped, UV-protected, polypropylene tank.
The Basic Root Washer stands in it.
The tank catches the dirty water, which can either be recycled using the pump, or
drained away via an overflow pipe.
The tank is fitted with two outlets, one with a tap to allow for controlled drainage,
and the other for filling or as an overflow.
OPTIONAL PUMP
This is useful where a mains water or sufficient pressure is not available.
The pump, type RWP can be used in conjunction with the root washer tank, type
RWT to recirculate the washing water.
The pump is fitted with a bypass hose and tap for adjusting the flow rate inside
the buckets.
