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HIGHWAY EQUIPMENT COMPANY
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TEST EQUIPMENT AND PROCEDURES CONTINUED
Once you attain a desirable pattern (Figure K), optimum-driving centers can be determined. To
determine optimum driving centers (effective swath width), locate the points on both the left and right
side of the pattern where the amount of material applied is half the amount at the center of the pattern.
The distance between these two points represents the driving centers to be used.
When blended fertilizers are being applied, a visual inspection of the samples should be made to
determine whether the blend within the effective swath width is consistent with the desired blend. If
the blend is not consistent, a narrower overall swath width should be used and a new optimum driving
center (effective swath width) should be determined.
Once the effective swath width has been established, a change in the processor may be required.
DRIVING METHODS
Figure I – Perimeter Method
Figure J – Switch Back Method
The perimeter (Figure I) and switch back (Figure J) driving methods are both acceptable.
NOTE: Utilizing the switch back method amplifies non-symmetrical patterns by blending right side on
right and left side on left. The perimeter method compensates for non-symmetrical patterns by
blending the right side of the pattern with the left side of the adjacent pattern or vice versa.
FLAT TOP
IDEAL PATTERN OVERLAP
Figure K – Ideal Pattern
