The Right Equipment Makes All the Difference

Site-specific Technology

The most important piece of equipment in site-specific application is a soil-sensing machine. It is the first step in setting up a site-specific application program.

There are a variety of comparable machines commercially available, but the most widely used is the Veris EC mapping system. It is not necessary for producers to purchase the equipment to obtain on-farm diagnosis. Soil-sensing equipment is often available through crop or farm consultant services or from a local Telone^® soil fumigant certified dealer.

The technology measures the apparent soil electrical conductivity (EC) of the soil to determine the texture variability. The soil texture correlates to the type of nematode and the type of damage nematodes can cause on your crop. Areas with high EC levels signify heavier soils and areas with low EC levels indicate lighter soils, where problems with root-knot nematodes generally occur.

After the soil-sensing machine is pulled through the field, the results will generate a map. This map is used to determine how much Telone should be applied and where it should be applied. Telone can then be put out in the field after the treatment map is uploaded into an applicator's on-board GPS system.

Application Equipment

Another helpful tool is the Premier Precision Telone Kit from Chemical Containers, Inc. (CCI) and its site-specific switch. Once installed, the switch works with the GPS and treatment map created using EC mapping technology. The switch automatically turns on when the tractor enters the application area, applying Telone in the process. Likewise, the system then turns off when the tractor exits the application area, stopping the application of Telone. This switch allows users to manage the site-specific on/off function at a fraction of the cost of a full-rate controller.

The Premier Precision Telone Kit is user-friendly equipment that was conceived exclusively for applications of Telone. This system is designed to use nitrogen pressure on the tank to apply Telone. The kit comes with a stainless steel digital flow meter and a digital display screen that measure the flow rate and quantity of Telone being applied.

It is recommended that all users of the Premier Precision Telone Kit routinely provide maintenance checks to the equipment. Below is a checklist of recommended practices.

• Ensure all valves are in the "off" position at the end of the season.
• Use nitrogen to blow out all lines in the field when finished.
• Do not use water at any time.
• Ensure a nitrogen pad is on the implement tank and all cylinders at all times.
• Check all hoses for wear and tear, and possible crimps. Hoses should be replaced every three to five years, or if a problem is evident.
• Replace Delrin balls in manifold annually. These can be replaced for free through CCI by calling 1-800-346-7867.
• Before application, use nitrogen to check for leaks in the system by attaching a nitrogen supply to the liquid side of the filling station (side with two hoses) and using a spray bottle with soapy water.
• Each year, verify the amount of product to be applied and calibrate the system accordingly.
• Only use nitrogen with the cylinder fleet and application equipment.
• Contact your local Telone specialist with any questions or go to Chemical Containers, Inc. for calibration instructions.
  

Additional Literature on CCI Equipment

Telone Precision System Application Diagram 

Telone Precision System Transfer Diagram 

Telone Premier Pressure System Digital Display Instructions 

Telone Pressure System Maintenance Instructions (Premier or Standard) 

 Global Positioning System Controllers

There are numerous options available for Global Positioning Systems (GPS) controllers. Trimble, Hewlett Packard, Ag Leaders, Mid-Tech and John Deere each offer GPS systems that work well with site-specific technology. These are accurate systems that allow applicators to apply Telone within inches of the intended target.