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How to Build a Spray Boom – 7 Amazingly Easy Steps and Instructions

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Spray boom, lawn sprayer, or boom sprayer is gardening equipment used to spray herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, and fertilizers directly to the garden.

This equipment sprays a fine mist of chemicals directly onto the plants minimizing your exposure to the chemicals while maintaining a safe distance.

It also increases work efficiency and helps cover large grounds in no time. If you do not want to spend extra money buying a sprayer, learn how to build a spray boom with our simple guide.

Spray boom uses nozzles to mist the chemicals directly to the plants. Its accuracy and proximity to the plants also reduce the usage and waste of chemicals. It can also control the pressure and amount of the chemicals being fed.

The benefit of building a spray boom by yourself is that you can customize it according to your needs. Keep following to learn how to build a spray boom easily.

How to Build a Spray Boom
Spray Boom – via Wikimedia

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Build a Spray Boom

If you did not know that you can build a spray boom on your own, then we are here to tell you not only can you build it but also customize it according to your garden.

We will share some step-by-step instructions on how to build a spray boom. For further assistance, we are linking a video tutorial here.

Detailed List of Equipment You Will Need

Here’s a detailed list of equipment with the functions you need to build a spray boom.

·        Tank

The largest part of the spray boom is the tank which holds the liquid chemicals. You can choose the shape and size of your tank based on your needs. If you have 2 acres of land, you will need a 20-25 gallons tank to cover it.

·        Pump

The second piece of equipment you will need is a pump machine. Choosing the right pump is essential. Usually, a pump of 12 V is used in the boom spray.

·        Battery

To provide the power to the pump, you will need a battery.

·        Strainer

On the suction side of the pump, a filter is attached to keep larger particles and contaminants out from it. It is to prevent the pipes and nozzles from getting clogged.

·        Pressure Relief Valve

A pressure relief valve is attached to the discharge side of the pump. This valve will control the chemical’s pressure and provide a smooth mist of consistent concentration.

·        On/Off Valve

It works as the switch to turn on/off the power of the sprayer.

·        Nozzle Kit

You can buy a nozzle kit based on which size you need for the sprayer.

·        PVC Hose

You will need a flexible 3/8″ PVC Hose. This hose will carry the chemicals to the nozzles from the container/tank. The hose material should be able to endure the chemicals.

·        Aluminum Pipe

You will need an aluminum pipe to hold the nozzles of the sprayer.

Step 1: Installation of Pump

In the first step, you will install the pump in the plastic tank. Take a plastic tank of your desired size and mark where you want to put the pump — Mark the points on the tank where you will screw the pump.

Take a drill and make four holes to attach the pump to the tank. Screw it tightly and put the nuts inside of the tank.

Step 2: Install Strainer

Once your pump is installed and secured in its place, it is time to install the filter. Make a hole of 7/8” next to the pump. Secure the edges of the hole with some Teflon tape. Insert one end of the filter inside the plastic tank.

Connect this end with the 3/8″ PVC pipe and secure it with stainless-steel hose clamps. This pipe will act as the feeder tube.

Step 3: Installation of Pressure Relief Valve

Now add the pressure relief valve to control the pressure of the liquid. You can turn the valve to increase or decrease the pressure. It has a gauge that indicates the value of the pressure.

Now make a new 7/8” hole in the tank. On the buckle head of the pressure relief valve, attach a barb. Secure all the edges with Teflon tape.

Now insert the buckle head into the hole and attach it with a nut. Attach the hose that has a barb to the stainless-steel hose clamps. Place a gauge on the valve. The liquid will flow towards the sprayer’s boom, and an on/off valve is attached at its end.

Step 4: Build a Spray Boom from PVC

To build a spray boom, you will need the PVC hose, aluminum pipe, nozzle kit, and stainless-steel hose clamps.

Cut the hose into five pieces of the same length as the distance between each nozzle body. Connect the spray tips to the bodies of the nozzle.

Attach these nozzles to the aluminum pipe with the help of some zip ties. Now mark five on the aluminum pipe where you will attach the nozzles. Now connect all the nozzle bodies using the 3/8” hose. Secure the hose in its place using the hose clamps.

Step 5: Put Your Tank on a Pull-Behind Cart

You can put your tank system on a pull-behind cart to easily move it around the garden. It will also allow you to hang the nozzle. Place your tank on a sturdy cart. You can adjust the height of your tank or the cart according to your needs.

Take an aluminum frame and attach it to the cart. Now attach your spray boom to the cart through the aluminum frame. Secure these two together with a nut and screw.

Step 6: Connect All the Parts

Now that the tank is ready, it is time to connect the valve, pump, filter, and boom. Connect the outer end of the filter to the pump using a PVC hose. After that, connect the other end to the pressure relief valve. Lastly, connect the boom to the valve with the help of a spreader up.

Tip: Spreader up will conveniently assist you in disconnecting the sprayer and the boom.

Step 7: Connect the Battery to the Pump

Now that everything is done and ready, all you need is to add the battery. The battery will provide energy to the pump to make it work. Select the appropriate battery depending on the power of the pump you are using.

Place the battery on the aluminum frame. Connect the battery to the pump and a power switch. This switch will help you in turning the power on and off.

With these simple instructions, your spray boom is all ready to work.


Conclusion

Working in a garden, especially a larger one, can be tedious. Applying fertilizer, herbicides, pesticides, and insecticides can be a time-consuming chore, and the chemicals can be dangerous if inhaled. A spray boomer is used to make this work easier.

Spray boom makes your work easy by allowing you to cover a wide area at a single time. It also limits your contact with the chemicals hence, keeping you safe. With our simple instructions, now you have learned how to build a spray boom. We hope you enjoy your little DIY project. We await your feedback!