TVA Fertilizer Research

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Browsing TVA Fertilizer Research by Subject "Fertilizer application"

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    Effect of Granule Size on Application
    (1983-10) Broder, Michael F.; Hubert L. Balay
    This study investigates the effect of granule size on the application of dry fertilizer using spinner spreaders, which are commonly used in the United States for broadcasting fertilizer. Previous research has emphasized the importance of particle size in maintaining uniform distribution within blends. However, the focus has been on smaller particles, discouraging using larger materials. This paper explores the advantages of broadcasting materials larger than typical granular products and examines the impact on spread patterns. The literature review reveals that particle size significantly influences the segregation of raw materials in blends. Small particles travel a shorter distance from the spinning discs than large particles, affecting the distribution pattern. Studies have also shown that irregularly shaped particles travel less distance than spherical particles due to their larger drag coefficients. However, recent research suggests that while median particle size is crucial, size variability has little effect on the spread pattern. The study conducts field spreading tests using a double-spinner spreader and a high-flotation applicator with a single spinner. Three different sizes of urea granules are used, with similar density, shape, and surface roughness. The spread patterns are analyzed using a computer program, and various spinner and chute adjustments are tested to determine the optimal settings. Results demonstrate that larger granules can be broadcasted more effectively when placed nearer to the centers of double spinners. Swath widths increase significantly, with improvements of up to 30 feet observed. The study also reveals that larger granules produce less dust and are less prone to drifting, making them advantageous in reducing environmental concerns.
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    What's Ahead for Application Practices?
    (1982-08) Achorn, Frank P.; Broder, Michael F.
    This document explores the current and future trends in fertilizer application practices in the United States. It highlights the significance of proper application methods and their impact on fertilizer production and marketing systems. The distribution of fertilizer materials applied is examined, including anhydrous ammonia, granular or solid fertilizers, and fluids. The document discusses the potential advantages of the dual application of ammonia and mixtures and the use of granular homogeneous mixtures. Various equipment for applying granular and fluid mixtures, such as pneumatic-type and high-flotation applicators, is presented. The document also addresses the challenges and costs associated with the custom application of ammonia and the conversion of anhydrous ammonia to liquid aqua ammonia for easier and more cost-effective application. It emphasizes the increasing popularity of solid fertilizer application through custom application methods using high-flotation applicators. The financial considerations and minimum acreage required for break-even are analyzed. Furthermore, the document explores the growing demand for fluid fertilizers and nitrogen solutions due to their ease of handling, uniform application, accurate measurement, and ability to mix pesticides. It discusses the equipment for applying fluid fertilizers and the potential benefits of applying fluids through irrigation systems or during tillage operations. The adoption of minimum tillage practices and the advantages of no-till operations are also examined. The concept of strip application, which lies between broadcasting and banding of fertilizers, is introduced. Promising results of strip application for phosphate and potash fertilizers are discussed, along with the equipment used for this method.