Drift effect: what it is and how to avoid it - Caffini

In modern agriculture, precision in the application of crop protection treatments is essential to ensure their effectiveness, minimize environmental impact, and improve the sustainability of agricultural practices.

One of the main phenomena that undermines the efficiency and accuracy of such treatments is the drift effect. In this article, we will take a detailed look at what the drift effect is, the factors that influence it, and how Caffini's solutions can help farmers effectively mitigate it.

Ready? Keep reading!

What is the drift phenomenon?

The drift effect occurs when part of the crop protection products (herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, or fertilizers) sprayed using application equipment is carried away by the air to other areas, often far from the target site, instead of settling on the intended zone.

This phenomenon not only reduces the effectiveness of the treatment but can also damage nearby crops, contaminate the environment, and pose risks to human and animal health.

What factors influence drift?

Drift can be influenced by numerous factors, including:

• Weather conditions. Wind, temperature, and relative humidity play crucial roles. Wind can carry droplets of the product over long distances, while high temperatures and low humidity increase evaporation, making droplets lighter and more prone to being carried by the air.
• Droplet size. Very small droplets (<100 microns) are particularly susceptible to drift. The ideal droplet size depends on the type of treatment and the equipment used.
• Equipment and spraying technology. Excessive boom height relative to the target, improper operating pressures, and the use of unsuitable nozzles can significantly increase the risk of drift.
• Terrain topography. The presence of hills or slopes can affect airflows and thus the dispersion of droplets.
• Product characteristics. The formulation of the products (e.g., volatile liquids versus denser solutions) affects their tendency to drift.

How to reduce drift with Caffini's equipment

To minimize the drift effect, it is crucial to choose state-of-the-art equipment that provides maximum precision and control during the application of treatments.

In this regard, Caffini offers innovative solutions specifically designed to address the drift problem:

• Nozzle technology. Caffini uses air-induction anti-drift precision nozzles that optimize droplet size, reducing the formation of excessively small droplets and thus minimizing the risk of drift.
• Pressure control systems. Caffini's pumps and pressure control systems maintain consistent operating pressure, ensuring uniform and controlled product distribution.
• Adjustable spraying booms. The spraying booms can be precisely adjusted in height, ensuring the application occurs as close as possible to the target, minimizing wind exposure and drift.
• Electronic management systems. Advanced electronic management systems allow operators to easily and accurately adjust application variables directly from the tractor cab, enhancing efficiency and reducing the possibility of human error.

Caffini offers a wide range of in-house produced "Airwings" air sleeves, one of whose primary functions is to significantly limit drift. This technique, pioneered by Caffini, delivers excellent performance and is applicable to all Caffini machines equipped with booms.

Conclusion

Controlling the drift effect is essential for effective agricultural treatments and environmental protection. Thanks to advanced technologies and continuous research and development, Caffini is committed to providing farmers with tools that enhance farm productivity and agricultural sustainability.

By using Caffini's solutions, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your activities while ensuring treatments are as efficient and targeted as possible. Contact us to learn more: our team is always available to answer your questions and curiosities.