3 easy tips to check your flow meter accuracy
Recently, we had the opportunity to host a Case IH Patriot Performance Workshop with our team and customers, led by Hamish Thornley, our Group Service Manager. The session focused on helping operators get the best performance out of their sprayers — particularly the Case IH Patriot series — with practical checks and adjustments that can make a real difference in the paddock.
One of the key topics Hamish covered was something many operators rely on every day but don’t always stop to check closely: the flow meter.
Why the Flow Meter Matters
Your flow meter is essentially the heart of your sprayer. It measures how much product is being applied and helps ensure your machine is delivering the correct rate across the paddock. If it’s out of calibration, you could end up over-applying or under-applying product — something every grower wants to avoid.
The good news is that checking it doesn’t have to be complicated. During the workshop, Hamish shared a few simple tips that operators can easily work into their routine.
1. Start with a Quick Jug Test
A jug test is one of the easiest ways to check your flow meter calibration. It allows you to compare the machine’s readings with the actual output, while also giving you a chance to see how your nozzles are performing at the same time.
It’s a quick check that can reveal a lot about how accurately your sprayer is operating.
2. Calibrate Over a Full Tank
For the most reliable results, Hamish recommends running your calibration across a full tank of spray — or even two tanks if possible.
This helps smooth out small variations and gives you a clearer picture of how the machine is performing during real operating conditions in the field.
3. Keep an Eye on the Numbers
At the workshop, attendees were provided with handouts to help guide their calculations and calibration adjustments. Monitoring those figures regularly is important.
If you notice a change of more than 5% from the factory calibration, it’s a sign that something may need attention. In some cases, it could indicate that the flow meter is wearing out and may need replacing
Small checks, big impact
A key takeaway from the Patriot Performance Workshop was that a few small checks can go a long way in keeping your sprayer performing as it should. Accurate application not only protects your crop and inputs, but also helps make the most of every pass across the paddock.
If you’d like to learn more about getting the most out of your sprayer or upcoming workshops, the Ramsey Bros team is always happy to help.