Overview
ISO 16122-2:2015 - part of the ISO 16122 series - specifies requirements and test methods for the inspection of horizontal boom sprayers in use. Intended to be used together with ISO 16122-1 (General), this standard focuses on the sprayer’s condition with respect to environmental risk and its ability to deliver effective, uniform application of plant protection products. The standard links factory requirements for new equipment with in-service inspection to maintain performance over the sprayer’s working life.
Key topics and requirements
ISO 16122-2:2015 covers practical inspection items and measurable test methods. Major technical topics include:
- Leaks and dripping
- Static and dynamic leak tests (tank, pump, pipes, boom) and prohibition of unintended spray onto sprayer parts.
- Pump performance
- Minimum pump capacity (at least 90% of original nominal flow or sufficient to maintain visible agitation).
- Pulsation limits (not exceeding 10% of working pressure).
- Air-chamber condition and pressure recommendations (membrane intact; air pressure typically 30–70% of nozzle working pressure).
- Spray mix agitation
- Requirements for visible hydraulic or mechanical agitation under defined conditions (tank half-full, max working pressure, largest nozzles).
- Spray liquid tank
- Lid integrity, strainers, induction hopper function, pressure compensation, readable tank indicators, safe emptying and filling (non-return valves to prevent backflow), and cleaning devices.
- Measuring, controls and regulation
- Functionality of pressure/flow indicators, ability to switch sections/nozzles on/off from operator position, and readable displays.
- Other components
- Inspection and test methods for lines (pipes/hoses), filters, boom structure, nozzles (flow rate/uniformity), blowers, spray guns/lances.
- Test methods
- Procedures for measuring flow, pressure variation, transverse distribution (patternator), and system controls are specified.
Applications and users
ISO 16122-2:2015 is used to:
- Reduce environmental contamination risks and improve pesticide application accuracy.
- Verify maintained performance of horizontal boom sprayers during service life.
Typical users:
- Field inspectors and certification bodies performing in‑service sprayer inspections.
- Farmers, contractors and service technicians responsible for sprayer maintenance.
- Equipment manufacturers and dealers referencing inspection criteria.
- Regulators and ag-environmental programs that mandate or recommend inspections.
Related standards
- ISO 16122-1:2015 - Inspection of sprayers in use - Part 1: General (mandatory companion document).
- ISO 5682-2:1997 - Test methods for hydraulic sprayers (referenced).
- Other referenced norms in the introduction: ISO 16119 series (environmental risk) and ISO 4254-6 (safety for new sprayers).
Keywords: ISO 16122-2:2015, horizontal boom sprayers, inspection of sprayers in use, sprayer inspection, agricultural and forestry machinery, pump capacity, leak test, nozzle flow, patternator.