Sprayer Supplies Guide to Building a Sprayer Boom

Building your own sprayer boom is a rewarding project that allows you to create a custom solution for spraying fields, gardens, or large agricultural areas. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, constructing a sprayer boom tailored to your specific needs can save you money and provide flexibility in your spraying operations. At Sprayer Supplies, we've put together an essential guide to help you through the process and we carry everything you need from top brands such as TeeJet, Banjo, Ace, Hypro, Delavan, Valley Industries, Raven and more.

1. Frame and Structure

The foundation of any sprayer boom is the frame. It supports the nozzles, hoses, and other components that make the sprayer functional. The frame must be sturdy, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion, as it will be exposed to chemicals, water, and harsh outdoor conditions.

Recommended Materials:

• Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for building a durable frame.

• Steel: Provides strength and durability, though it requires extra care to prevent rust.

• PVC Tubing: A more affordable and lightweight option for smaller, less industrial-sized sprayers.

What You’ll Need:

• Tubing or steel bars (depending on the material you choose)

• Frame connectors or brackets to join the pieces together

• Bolts and screws for assembly

2. Sprayer Nozzles

The nozzles control the distribution of the liquid you're spraying. The choice of nozzle depends on the application, whether you’re spraying herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, or just water. Sprayer Supplies carries a wide selection of quality nozzles and tips from brands such as TeeJet, Hypro, Udor, Greenleaf and more.

Key Types of Nozzles:

• Flat-fan nozzles: Provide a uniform spray pattern, making them ideal for general-purpose spraying.

• Cone nozzles: Create a conical spray, useful for spraying uneven areas or specific crops.

• Flood nozzles: Used for a higher-volume application, often for larger areas.

What You’ll Need:

• Flat-fan, cone, or flood nozzles (depending on your need)

• Nozzle bodies or holders (these attach the nozzles to your boom)

• Nozzle spacers (if required for proper nozzle placement)

3. Hoses and Tubing

The hoses are crucial for transporting the liquid from the tank to the nozzles. Choosing the right type of hose is important because they need to be durable, chemical-resistant, and able to handle the pressure of the sprayer.

What You’ll Need:

• High-pressure hose: Durable and able to withstand the chemicals and pressure exerted during operation.

• Chemical-resistant tubing: Essential for ensuring the longevity of your sprayer system when using harsh substances.

• Hose clamps or fittings to securely attach the hoses to the nozzles and tank.

4. Pump

A pump is the heart of your sprayer system. It provides the pressure needed to push the liquid through the hoses and out of the nozzles. The type of pump you select will depend on the size of the area you're spraying and the materials you're working with. Sprayer Supplies carries a large selection of pumps, whether you need a 12-volt, roller or other pump. Brands include Ace, Delavan, Shurflo, Everflo, Hypro, John Blue and more.

Types of Sprayer Pumps:

• Diaphragm pumps: Known for their durability and resistance to chemicals, diaphragm pumps are often used for agricultural sprayers.

• Centrifugal pumps: Ideal for larger operations, where high pressure and a large volume of liquid need to be delivered.

• Piston pumps: These provide precise control over the amount of liquid sprayed and are often used in more specialized systems.

What You’ll Need:

• Diaphragm, centrifugal, or piston pump

• Mounting brackets or platform to attach the pump securely

• Plumbing adapters for connecting the pump to your hoses and tank

5. Tank

The tank stores the liquid you're spraying. For smaller setups, you can use a 25-gallon tank, but for larger operations, you may need a tank with a capacity of several hundred gallons. It should be made of durable, chemical-resistant material, as it will be in constant contact with potentially harmful substances.

What You’ll Need:

• A tank of the appropriate size (25 to 500+ gallons depending on the scale of your operation)

• Tank fittings for connecting hoses to the tank

• Tank support brackets for secure mounting

6. Control System

A control system is essential for regulating the flow of liquid and ensuring precise application. Many modern sprayer booms come with electronic controls, but you can build a basic system using manual valves or pressure regulators.

What You’ll Need:

• Pressure regulator: To maintain consistent pressure for spraying.

• Flow meter: To measure how much liquid is being sprayed at any given time.

• Manual or electronic valve: To control the on/off operation of your nozzles.

7. Boom Arms and Mounting Brackets

The boom arms extend out from the sprayer and hold the nozzles at the correct height for spraying. The length and width of the boom depend on the area you plan to cover. You’ll also need adjustable brackets to fine-tune the boom’s position and make sure it’s level.

What You’ll Need:

• Boom arms (steel or aluminum tubes that extend out from the center frame)

• Adjustable brackets for leveling and mounting the boom arms

• Sprayer arm supports to prevent wobbling during operation

8. Wheels or Mounting System

For mobility, especially in large fields, you’ll need a reliable wheel or mounting system. If you plan to use your sprayer boom on a vehicle like a tractor or ATV, make sure you have the correct hitch system. For manual models, sturdy wheels will allow for easy movement.

What You’ll Need:

• Wheels (for manual or tow-behind models)

• Hitching system (for mounting to a tractor, ATV, or UTV)

• Mounting brackets to secure the boom to your vehicle or trailer

9. Safety and Maintenance Tools

When building your own sprayer boom, safety and maintenance should be a priority. Protective gear, maintenance tools, and cleaning equipment are essential to ensure a long lifespan for your sprayer.

What You’ll Need:

• Chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and aprons for handling chemicals.

• Pressure washer for cleaning the boom and nozzles after use.

• Lubricants and greases for maintaining moving parts and preventing corrosion.

Conclusion

Building your own sprayer boom is a great way to customize a solution for your spraying needs. With the right materials and components—like a sturdy frame, reliable pump, accurate nozzles, and durable hoses—you can create a sprayer system that suits your specific application, whether you're spraying a small garden or a large agricultural field.

By gathering all the necessary products and tools outlined in this guide, you'll be on your way to constructing a sprayer boom that will help you maintain your plants, crops, or fields efficiently and effectively. Happy building and spraying!