ISO 16122-3:2024

Overview

ISO 16122-3:2024 - "Agricultural and forestry machinery - Inspection of sprayers in use - Part 3: Sprayers for bush and tree crops" defines requirements and test methods for on‑site inspection of sprayers used in bush and tree crops. Used together with ISO 16122-1:2024, this second edition focuses on the condition of sprayers in service with respect to their environmental risk and their ability to achieve effective application. The document updates and replaces ISO 16122-3:2015 and aligns inspection practice with the ISO 16119 series for new sprayers.

Key topics and technical requirements

ISO 16122-3:2024 covers a comprehensive set of inspection items and verification methods. Major technical topics include:

• Leaks and dripping - static and dynamic leak checks and spray/drip detection on machine parts.
• Pumps - verification of pump capacity, pulsation behavior and presence/function of air chambers.
• Spray tank(s) - lids, filling strainers, pressure compensation, content indicators, emptying and filling arrangements, induction hoppers, and container cleaning devices.
• Agitation systems - hydraulic and mechanical agitation checks for uniform spray mix.
• Measuring, control and regulation systems - pressure indicators, flow meters, pressure adjustments, and pressure distribution across boom sections.
• Lines, filters and nozzles - integrity and isolation of hoses/pipes, filter presence and serviceability, nozzle arrangement, dripping, shut‑off and adjustment.
• Blower systems and air assistance - condition and adjustability of blowers used for drift control in tree and bush applications.
• Spray guns and lances - trigger function and flow/angle adjustment checks.
• Test methods - prescribed procedures for pumps, pressure indicators, nozzle flow rate measurement, calibrated flow meter installation, pressure distribution and pressure variation on shut‑off.

The standard emphasizes practical verification methods rather than prescribing threshold values; inspectors follow defined test procedures to assess performance and environmental risk.

Practical applications

ISO 16122-3:2024 is intended for:

• On‑farm and service‑center inspection of sprayers in use for bush and tree crops (e.g., orchards, vineyards where tree fruit or woody bushes are treated).
• Routine maintenance diagnostics and pre‑season checks to reduce drift, leaks and environmental contamination.
• Regulatory or certification checks where proof of safe, effective spray equipment operation is required.
• Manufacturer and dealer support for after‑sale service, retrofit evaluation and product improvement.

Adopting the standard improves sprayer performance, reduces environmental risk, and helps ensure accurate agrochemical application.

Who should use this standard

• Agricultural and forestry machinery inspectors
• Farm managers and operators of orchard/vineyard sprayers
• Equipment manufacturers, dealers and service technicians
• Certification bodies and regulators concerned with pesticide application safety

Related standards

• ISO 16122-1:2024 - General requirements and inspector protection (to be used together with Part 3).
• ISO 16119 series - Environmental and performance requirements for new sprayers (related guidance for design and manufacture).

Keywords: ISO 16122-3:2024, sprayer inspection, bush and tree crops, inspection of sprayers, agricultural and forestry machinery, test methods, pump capacity, nozzle flow, pressure distribution, environmental risk.