The predecessors of modern-day sprayers were developed in the late 1800s. They were originally pulled by horses and, later, powered by steam. The invention of tractors brought about a shift in the market. Sprayers and their related features and components have changed a lot since 1930, when John Deere offered its first three sprayer models with 150-gallon tanks made of cypress.
Most tanks are now made of fibreglass or poly, and recent developments are aimed at more effectively applying chemicals to reduce concerns over human health and minimise spray drift on surrounding crops through the use of features such as sprayer hoods. Better pumps, self-levelling booms, controlled droplet application, and other improvements provide more even distribution across fields.
Today, you’ll find three general types of sprayers for sale for agricultural use:
Pull-type sprayers have tanks of varying capacities mounted on a trailer, with some high-clearance models available for use in tall crops. Pull-type sprayers have booms of various lengths and are typically powered by a PTO (power take-off). Ag Spray Equipment, Bestway, Demco, FAST Manufacturing, Hardi, and Redball are among the most common manufacturers offering new and used pull-type sprayers for sale. Advancements such as auto boom height control mean the sprayers can work more precisely on a wider variety of crops, while Bestway offers pull-type sprayers with booms constructed of composite material for improved strength and flexibility compared to booms made of traditional steel tubing.
Self-propelled sprayers from manufacturers such as Ag-Chem, Apache, Case IH, John Deere, and Spra-Coupe are all-in-one units combining the tractor, truck, or other transport mechanism and the tank, booms, and spraying functionality; high-clearance sprayer models allow for use in taller crops. Manufacturers such as Case IH are developing self-propelled sprayers with lighter footprints for less soil compaction, along with automatic boom height control and automated guidance to reduce skips and overlaps.
Mounted sprayers typically connect to a tractor or ATV using a three-point hitch. Tanks can range in capacity with the sprayers most often powered by PTO; booms can be mounted on the sprayer itself or under the tractor. Ag Spray Equipment, Enduraplas, and Redball are among the most common manufacturers offering three-point/mounted sprayers for sale. Improved safety has been a focus for manufacturers such as Enduraplas, which offers sprayers with counterbalanced tanks that put more weight closer to the tractor wheels.