Comparison Gart CW-16 L vs Forte CL-16A

The longest distance a sprayer can effectively spray a liquid or powder. Usually, the horizontal range is implied, however, for “long-range” models, values bare also given for vertical spraying — in such units, the difference between horizontal and vertical ranges can be very noticeable.

A “long-range” sprayer (for 10–15 m or more) is convenient in that it allows you to process a large area without moving, and also to reach high branches without using ladders. On the other hand, a long range requires appropriate power, which affects the price, weight and dimensions of the unit — despite the fact that such capabilities are not always required: for example, for a cramped greenhouse, an atomizer with a short range ( 5 – 10 m, and often and less) So it is worth choosing according to this indicator, taking into account the features of the planned work.

The maximum operating pressure of the sprayer.

High pressure allows to achieve good spraying performance and range, however, actual performance can vary with units with the same pressure. Therefore, in general, the indicator is for reference (the lion's share of models has a pressure of 3 bar and 4 bar, and it is only possible to compare different models by it approximately. When choosing, it makes sense to focus on more practical characteristics — performance, range, etc.

The maximum fluid temperature that the sprayer can safely handle.

The preparation process of some formulations requires heating; therefore, data on the temperature to which the liquid must cool can be very important for safe operation. However, even in the most heat-resistant sprayers, this figure does not exceed 40 °C; such a liquid feels warm to the touch.

It is worth remembering the temperature limits when the unit is in the sun: if the tank has had time to get very hot in the sun, you should let it cool down before starting work.

The length of the spray tube supplied with the sprayer.

A long tube, on the one hand, allows you to reach far without leaving your seat and without using stools, ladders, etc.; on the other hand, it is not very manoeuvrable and can be inconvenient when working in tight spaces. When choosing, it is worth proceeding from the optimal compromise between these characteristics. For example, a large tube length (up to 2 m in some models) is useful when processing fruit trees, but for a greenhouse it is better to choose a shorter sprayer. It is also worth considering that some sprayers use telescopic (sliding) tubes, the length of which can be adjusted as needed; in such cases, the unfolded size of the atomizer is usually indicated.

Availability of a folding telescopic tube in a set of delivery of a sprayer.

The length of such a tube can be adjusted within certain limits, adjusting it to the specifics of the situation. For example, in cramped conditions, a large length is not needed, but when processing tall trees, on the contrary, it is very convenient. Specific adjustment options may be different: in some models, you can choose only one of the two extreme positions (fully folded or fully unfolded), while others allow you to fix the handset in intermediate positions.

The material from which the complete spray tube of the sprayer is made.

— Plastic. The key advantage of plastic over other materials used for spray wands is its low cost. In addition, this material is chemically inert and does not corrode, and also has a low weight. On the other hand, the rigidity of the plastic is not very high, which is why such tubes tend to bend, sometimes even under their own weight.

— Aluminium. Aluminium alloys combine good strength and lightness, such a tube is easy to work with, and it takes quite a strong blow or pressure to bend it. On the other hand, aluminium is expensive.

— Brass. In addition to strength and reliability (including resistance to bending), brass is notable for its excellent resistance to corrosion. The disadvantages of such tubes are the high price, as well as the rather large weight.

- Stainless steel. "Stainless steel" is notable primarily for its high strength and rigidity, which is superior to other materials, despite the fact that this material is relatively inexpensive. However, such tubes weigh much more than aluminium or plastic ones.

- Copper. According to the main operational properties, copper pipes are similar to brass ones: they are strong, reliable and durable. On the other hand, such tubes are relatively expensive and do not have fundamental advantages over the same "stainless steel". Therefore, this option is rarely found.

Capacity of the complete battery in the battery sprayer (see "Type").

A higher capacity allows you to work longer without recharging, but this is true only “ceteris paribus” — the actual energy consumption (and therefore battery life) depends on the performance, range and some other characteristics of the sprayer. Therefore, only devices with similar indicators can be compared by this parameter, and it is easier to evaluate battery life by directly claimed operating time (see below). Also, larger batteries tend to weigh more and cost more. Therefore, manufacturers usually choose the battery capacity according to the features of a particular model — in order, on the one hand, to ensure good battery life, and on the other hand, not to greatly increase the weight and price.

Time of continuous operation of the battery sprayer (see "Type") on one battery charge. The actual operating time may differ slightly from the claimed one due to the specifics of a particular situation, however, these differences are usually not very large, and this indicator can be used to evaluate not only theoretical, but also practical indicators of battery life.

The total weight of the sprayer. Specified without taking into account the liquid or powder in the working tank; at the same time, for battery models (see “Type”), usually, the weight is given with a complete battery, and for gasoline models, on the contrary, “dry” weight, without fuel in the tank.