Taiwan Develops Dual-Use Electric Sprayer to Reduce Farmer Pesticide Exposure

To enhance orchard pest and disease control efficiency and operational safety, the Taitung District Agricultural Improvement Station has successfully developed a "remote and manual dual-use electric sprayer." This innovative machine replaces traditional diesel engines with electric power, incorporating a newly designed arched, bladeless guide system. It offers benefits such as energy saving, high efficiency, and improved safety, significantly reducing carbon emissions and increasing pesticide adhesion.

Currently, most orchard spraying equipment in Taiwan relies on 16 to 21 horsepower diesel engines. These are not only fuel-intensive and high in carbon emissions but also generate considerable vibration, noise, and black smoke. Traditional blower sprayers have fixed spray angles, limiting the uniformity and adhesion of pesticides. Furthermore, manual operation exposes farmers directly to pesticides, increasing the risk of skin and respiratory contact.

The new electric sprayer addresses these issues by offering both remote control and manual driving functions. Powered by interchangeable batteries, it can operate continuously for about 50 minutes and allows for quick battery swaps to minimize downtime. With a remote control range of up to 180 meters and real-time video monitoring, operators can spray pesticides from a safe distance, significantly reducing exposure risks. A manual driving mode is also available for easier machine movement and different operational needs.

A key feature is the innovative "arched bladeless guide system." This system uses a small airflow to guide a large, fan-shaped airflow, replacing traditional fans. This reduces energy consumption and allows for a 30-degree front and back spray angle, ensuring uniform penetration of pesticides between leaves. The addition of a high-voltage electrostatic system charges the mist droplets, improving their adhesion to leaves. The machine emits only 1.7 kg of CO2 equivalent per hour, a reduction of over 67% compared to traditional machines (5.2 to 14.9 kg CO2e/hour). Noise levels have also been reduced from 111 decibels to 81 decibels, balancing energy conservation, operational quality, and operator comfort.