Gason 5030 Series, Operator'S Manual

Page: 17 / 80

Operation
Page 13
05/14
Setting Application Rates
The application rate is controlled by:
1. The spread width of the product.
2. The bulk density of the product.
3. The gearbox ratio selected to run the
feed chain.
4. The rear door height setting.
Spreading Width
The maximum spread width, or bout
width for various products is determined by
a material’s bulk density, granule size and
granule shape. Some material will spread to
wide widths, such as granulated single
super, while lime and gypsum will only be
capable of spreading to a narrow width.
Refer to the table G26 on page 18 for
approximate spread widths for various
products.
Fig. G11 Bout width accuracy test.
To confirm the width for the actual
product being spread it will be necessary to
field-test the specific product and spreader
being used.
This process, if done correctly, involves
the collection of spread material in special
trays set out across the paddock at even
spacings.
The second and more simplistic method
to determine the approximate spread width is
to estimate the width by eye. This can be done
by spreading a small amount of product at the
desired rate onto clear ground or onto a length
of shade cloth stretched out and pegged to the
ground that contrasts with the fertiliser. This
should demonstrate the approximate bout
width and the tapering off of product at the
extreme edges of the spread.
It may be necessary to drive over the
same path 2 or 3 times during the test if
spreading light rates of granular fertiliser.
The bout width is the distance that you
can drive apart on the paddock, maintaining
even coverage of product across the entire
paddock. The bout width will be less than the
overall spread width.
Determining Bulk Density
To determine the door and gearbox
setting it will help if you know the bulk density
of the particular product. This is done by using
the density meter that is supplied with the
spreader and by carrying out the following
steps.
Fig. G12 Density meter.
1. Fill the meter with product and level off.
2. Balance on ring and slide weight out until
level bubble is between the marks.