Frequently Asked Questions
Q:
“How do weed wipers work?”
A:
Glyphosate from the main tank is pumped and regulated to each Alley Cat
wiper boom. Each boom consists of up to 8 flow regulator
discs, filtration screens and o-rings. The small stainless steel flow
discs regulate the amount of glyphosate flow to the patented nylon
panels. The flow discs range in size to determine the amount of flow
output. The smaller the number, the less flow.
On one side of the flow disc there is regulated pressure. On the other side, the pressure subsides to allow the chemical to safely flow through clear tubes which are securely fastened to the nylon panels.
The glyphosate then slowly and evenly “seeps” and moistens the nylon
panels. This enables the panels to transmit the herbicide to the weeds
by a wiping process.
Q: “How is the boom constructed?”
A: The corrosion resistant boom is constructed from UV proof PVC and nylon. It is then mounted to an iron “T” handle by stainless steel bolts.
The oversized caps on each end of the boom allow for easy removal and flushing. No tools are necessary for cleaning the flow disc or boom.
Q: “Is additional filtration necessary?”
A: The wiper booms come complete with 100 mesh small filter screens. However, we strongly recommend 50 mesh primary and 100 mesh secondary filtration be placed at suction side of pump.
Q: “At what speed should my tractor run?”
A:
The speed of your tractor depends on the amount of glyphosate
concentrate and flow. However, recommended speed is 2-5 MPH.
Q: “How do I calibrate my wipers?”
A: The three variable factors you will need to determine how to calibrate your wipers are:
1.Tractor speed
2.Size of flow disc
3.Chemical pressure
Depending on the width of the wiper, each boom will contain either 4,6 or 8 flow discs. Generally, the AlleyCat wiper boom contains #16 flow disc. (As indicated on the flow disc chart on this brochure.)
Use the chart on the reverse side to determine your GPM. Be sure to multiply GPM by number of flow discs contained in your boom.
Q: “How do I determine wiper size?”
A: Every AlleyCat wiper is custom made to fit your row middles. To get a “fair” measurement, we recommend you measure several row middles and use an average.
Since most row middles are slightly rounded at the bottom, add 2 inches to your final averaged measurement.
Q: “How do I mount my AlleyCat wipers?”
A: Wipers can either be mounted to a 3pt. hitch tank or your existing herbicide rig. The outside diameter of the round “T” handle is 1¼”. The assembly of the wipers was designed to replace hooded or shielded herbicide spray baskets.
We, at Alley Cat, hope these questions and answers give you a better understanding of how the patented Alley Cat wiper works. If you have any further questions please give us a call at 561.733.3181 or email us here.