FAQ's

Here, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of common questions and concerns to provide you with quick and informative answers. Whether you’re a new customer exploring drones and services or an existing client seeking clarity, this page is designed to offer insights and solutions.

If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team for personalized assistance. We’re here to make your experience as seamless and easy as possible.

Specifications and Abilities

Below are some common questions about specifications and drone abilities.

Which products are suitable for drone application?

Our drones are equipped to handle both liquid and granular products. Liquid applications typically encompass fungicides, insecticides, foliar fertilizers, and herbicides, while granular applications involve broadcasting cover crops and fertilizers.

Depending on the specific drone series you choose, our drones can efficiently apply liquid products at rates ranging from 0.25 to 15 gallons per acre and granular products at rates spanning from 3 to 300 pounds per acre. The most common usage for our drone series involves low volume rates, typically around 2 gallons per acre. This is particularly effective due to our drones’ prop wash design, which ensures even distribution and penetration of the product throughout the canopy, resulting in high efficiency across a wide range of products at low volume rates.

What is the hourly acreage coverage for a drone during spraying operations?

Typically, a carrier volume of 2 gallons per acre (GPA) serves as a standard reference for most aerially applied products. Here are the maximum achievable efficiencies at 2 GPA, taking into account factors such as landing and refill time:

  • T10: 15 acres per hour
  • T30: 30 acres per hour
  • T40: 40 acres per hour

It’s worth noting that as the GPA decreases, the efficiency of each drone will see a slight increase, whereas at higher GPAs, the efficiency tends to decrease.

What is the tank's capacity?
  • T10: 10-liter (2.6 gallons) liquid capacity and 3-gallon granular tank, which converts to approximately 20 lbs. of granular material.
  • T20: 20-liter (5.2 gallons) liquid capacity and 5.2-gallon granular tank, which converts to approximately 35 lbs. of granular material.
  • T30: 30-liter (8 gallons) liquid capacity and 10.5-gallon granular tank, which converts to approximately than 70 lbs. of granular material.
  • T40: 40-liter (10.5 gallons) liquid capacity and
What is the width of the drone sprayer's swath on each pass?

Drones harness a vortex effect generated by the rotor wash to facilitate the dispersion of atomized liquid over a wider area than the physical dimensions of the drone itself. This swath width is influenced by several factors, including the vortex effect, application height, nozzle selection, spray rate, and the speed of spraying.

Here are the maximum swath widths for each drone model when spraying at an altitude of 10-13 feet above the crop canopy:

  • T10: Swath width extends up to 5 meters (16.4 feet)
  • T20: Swath width extends up to 7 meters (23 feet)
  • T30: Swath width extends up to 9 meters (29.5 feet)
  • T40: Swath width extends up to 9.75 meters (32 feet)

It’s important to note that the granular spreader’s distribution pattern can vary significantly based on the product being used and the elevation of the drone, typically ranging from 20 to 35 feet.

What is the maximum spraying rate?

The maximum pump output is influenced by factors such as nozzle selection, product density, and calibration. Here are the maximum pump outputs for each drone model:

  • T10: 2.4 liters (0.63 gallons) per minute
  • T20: 6 liters (1.58 gallons) per minute
  • T30: 8 liters (2.11 gallons) per minute
  • T40: 12 liters (3.2 gallons) per minute

These pumps are equipped with brushless motors that automatically adjust the spray rate in sync with flight speed, and electromagnetic flow meters to ensure accurate and consistent rates.

What is the weight of each sprayer drone when fully loaded?
  • T10: Weighs under 55 lbs. (24.9 kg.)
  • T20: Weighs 42 lbs. (19 kg.) empty and 105 lbs. (47.2 kg.) when fully loaded.
  • T30: Weighs 58 lbs. (26.3 kg.) empty and 168 lbs. (76.5 kg.) when fully loaded.
  • T40: Weighs 83 lbs. (33 kg.) empty and 220 lbs. (100 kg.) when fully loaded.
What is the maximum flying speed of the drone during spraying operations?

In manual flight mode, the drone can achieve speeds of up to 33 feet per second or 22.5 miles per hour. During automated operations, it can reach speeds of up to 23 feet per second or 15.5 miles per hour. Even at these speeds, our drones are capable of navigating slopes of up to 30 degrees while detecting and avoiding obstacles in their flight path.

Notably, the T40 model surpasses other Agras models with a faster automated operation speed, capable of reaching up to 32.8 feet per second or 22 miles per hour.

Are there cameras installed on sprayer drones?

All of our drones are equipped with First Person View (FPV) cameras, specifically designed to offer operators a live view on the controller screen. These FPV cameras have a range of up to 2 miles, making them particularly valuable for precise weed spot spraying.

However, it’s important to note that FPV cameras are not intended for field mapping. We do not recommend using sprayer drones for field scouting since smaller, more cost-effective drones equipped with superior cameras are better suited for this specific task.

The T40 model, on the other hand, features a camera mounted on a gimbal, which allows for limited crop scouting and field mapping using the T40 remote to process captured imagery.

What are the primary applications for each drone model?

T10: Compact and Lightweight

Featuring a swappable liquid tank, the T10 stands out as the lightest and most easily transportable sprayer drone available. This makes it an ideal choice for small-scale test plots and spot spraying applications, especially when the drone needs to be frequently relocated from one field to another throughout the day.

T30: Robust Performance and Portability

The T30 has undergone rigorous field testing and has proven its mettle. It offers convenient portability while still being sufficiently large to cover extensive acreage. Equipped with T-Jet nozzles, the T30 exhibits remarkable versatility for a wide range of spraying tasks.

T40: The Ultimate Workhorse

The T40 is a colossal and swift drone loaded with an array of groundbreaking features not previously seen in a single spray drone platform. Capable of efficiently spraying large fields, carrying up to 100 pounds of fertilizer, and generating and processing imagery, the T40 is indisputably the most advanced spray drone in the world.

Where can I obtain replacement parts or service for a sprayer drone?

We have a dedicated, full-time drone technician available to handle drone repairs and assist customers in acquiring the necessary replacement parts. Should you require parts or need your drone to be serviced, please reach out to us via email at support@agrispraydrones.com.

Many repairs are straightforward and can be easily carried out by the drone owner. These drones are designed with modularity in mind, enabling you to remove the problematic part and replace it with a new one. In most cases, there’s no requirement for diagnostics or recalibrations. However, if you encounter a more complex issue, our technician can provide guidance to help you resolve it yourself.

What is the typical lifespan of a sprayer drone?

In general, our drones are engineered for durability and longevity, boasting a minimal presence of major wear components. In simple terms, with proper care and avoiding accidents, you can expect extended service without the need for part replacements.

Should the need for replacement arise, all drone components are designed to be replaceable and modular, facilitating easy and cost-effective maintenance. Here are some details regarding certain parts that might necessitate replacement over time:

  1. Batteries: The manufacturer states that the T30’s batteries can endure up to 1,000 charge cycles.
  2. Motors: All drone motors are brushless, and they typically exhibit an industry-standard service life of 10,000+ hours.
  3. Electronic Speed Controllers (ESC): While some ESCs may wear out after 150 hours of operation, most are built to last over 300 hours.
  4. Props: Props may require replacement if they become chipped or cracked, but under normal conditions, they should endure for multiple seasons.
  5. Spraying System Components: Parts like tips, hoses, and pump diaphragms in the spraying system may need replacement after a few seasons of use.

Operational Configuration

Below are some of are common questions about operational configuration.

What is the procedure for preparing the chemical mix for the sprayer drone system?

There are three primary methods for mixing chemicals:

1. Mix Each Tank Load: This approach is the least efficient but suitable for small plots.

2. Mix Big Batches or Hot Loads in a Bulk Tank: Prepare ample chemical mix for an entire day’s operation using IBC/chemical totes (available in 125-, 260-, and 330-gallon totes). *Note: Recirculation may be required throughout the day to keep the product properly suspended.

3. Mix Batches as You Go: Maintain a large tank of water, sufficient for the day, alongside the necessary chemicals, and two 30-60-gallon cone-bottom tanks on your trailer. Mix batches in the cone-bottom tanks while the drone is operational. *Alternatively, an automatic mixing system can be used to blend the product as you operate throughout the day.

To fill the drone, utilize a 10 to 20 gallon per minute electric pump. A mini-bulk pump, paired with a 30-40-foot hose, is an effective choice.

What type of pump system is required to fill the drone tank?

For filling the drone tank, you’ll need the following components:

Pump: An electric mini-bulk pump, such as the CT6 high flow, is a suitable choice. You can find this at Shop.FarmChem.com. Another option is a DEF diaphragm pump with a flow rate of 8-10 gallons per minute, available for purchase on Amazon.

Hose and Plumbing: You will require a 1″ nylon applicator hose, as well as valves and banjo couplers, which can be conveniently obtained from Shop.FarmChem.com.

Nozzles: We recommend using a ¾” fuel nozzle along with a swivel connector, similar to those found at gas stations. Fuel nozzles can be purchased at your local farm supply store or on Amazon.com. *Please note that auto shut-off fuel nozzles, while effective, may cause certain chemical products to foam.

Fill-Through Cap: This component allows for filling the sprayer tank without the need to remove the cap, enhancing operational efficiency. It can be acquired from Agri Spray Drones. To install the cap, you will need to cut a 41-mm or 1 5/8-inch hole in your existing cap on the drone tank.

What type of truck and trailer setup is necessary to operate a sprayer drone?

The specific truck and trailer setup required depends on various factors, including the type of drone you have, the carrying capacity needed for water and chemicals, and the areas you will be spraying. Here are some general setup recommendations:

  • T10: This drone can fit in the bed of a half-ton pickup truck with everything you need to spray about 50 acres in a day, including 100 gallons of water, a small generator, T10 batteries, and chargers.
  • T20: For the T20, a three-quarter or one-ton pickup truck is suitable, and it can accommodate a 330-gallon water/pre-mixed chemical tote, a large generator, T20 batteries, and chargers.
  • T30: Due to its size, when using the T30, it’s recommended to have a flatbed trailer for loading and unloading. You can land the drone on the trailer and secure it for transportation, minimizing the risk of debris damaging the drone’s props.

While all our drones are equipped with IP67 water and dustproofing, some customers prefer to use an enclosed trailer for storing and transporting the drones. In this scenario, you can unload the drones at the field and take off from the ground. If you plan to use multiple drones, a longer trailer may be necessary.

How much can I charge for custom application with a sprayer drone?

The pricing for custom application services using a sprayer drone varies depending on the services offered and the local market conditions.

For larger acreage jobs, it is advisable to consider rates similar to those charged by helicopters, or even slightly higher, at approximately $14-15 per acre.

For smaller jobs, an hourly rate is recommended, typically ranging from $400-450 per hour when using the T30 model.

Operational Features

Below are some common questions drones operational features.

What is the level of complexity in operating sprayer drones?

Each of our sprayer drones is equipped with remarkably user-friendly software and controls, catering to both manual and fully autonomous operation. Yes, that’s correct! Our drones are capable of not only flying autonomously but also conducting spraying or spreading tasks entirely on their own. You just need to input the field’s boundaries and its specific parameters, which can be easily imported from shapefiles or manually created using the remote control.

What occurs if the drone approaches a tree, building, or any other form of obstruction during flight?

Each of our drone models incorporates cutting-edge obstacle avoidance technology through the use of Digital Beam Forming (DBF) radars. These advanced radars can detect obstacles as small as 1 cm in diameter, triggering the drone to either halt and alert the operator or autonomously navigate around the obstruction.

  • T20: Features obstacle detection capabilities in a 360-degree lateral pattern around the drone.
  • T10 and T30: Come equipped with an upward-facing radar designed to detect obstacles in all directions.
How can I effectively operate a sprayer drone system?

In general, for a comprehensive field operation, there are six key steps:

  1. Ensure you have the necessary equipment, including a generator and a pre-mixed tank with a pump on-site.
  2. Map the field boundaries. This can be accomplished in advance by creating shapefiles, using aerial imagery via the remote control, or on-site with the drone or remote.
  3. Configure the parameters for the operation, including flight height, direction, speed, and application rate.
  4. Instruct the drone regarding the volume of spray and set it for takeoff.
  5. The drone will autonomously take off, perform its task, and return home, or it can be manually landed.
  6. Refill the tank as required, replace the batteries, and recharge them on-site. The drone can also be flown in manual or manual+ modes for spot applications.
What is the maximum line-of-sight control distance?

The line-of-sight control distance is approximately three miles. However, this distance may significantly decrease when flying close to the ground or when obstructions such as trees interfere with the signal. It’s important to note that most pilots typically operate within a one-mile range. For situations involving obstructions, range extenders are available for remote controllers to enhance the signal when flying near such obstacles.

How precise is the GPS system?

The standard GPS on the drones is exceptionally accurate, typically within inches. This GPS system is distinctive as it draws signals from approximately 18 to 26 satellites, simultaneously utilizing three sources: GNSS, GLONASS, and Galileo.

For most users, the standard GPS suffices. However, if you require even greater precision, the drone can be configured for real-time kinematic (RTK) operation, which significantly reduces inaccuracy to the centimeter level. You have the option to acquire a DJI RTK base station from Rocky Mountain Drones or utilize a third-party cellular RTK service for enhanced precision.

How many drones can an individual simultaneously operate?

Under the 107 license, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) typically restricts a single pilot to operating one drone at a time. However, there are exemptions in place. When these exemptions are satisfied, a pilot is legally allowed to operate up to three drones simultaneously. Both the T10 and T30 models enable one remote to autonomously control up to three drones in the field, although multiple remotes can also be utilized.

It’s important to consider that operating three drones simultaneously by oneself can be challenging. It’s advisable to have someone present to assist with tasks such as refilling charged batteries, mixing chemicals, and other operational requirements.

Batteries and Power Systems

Below are some common questions on batteries and power systems.

What is the flight duration of a sprayer drone on a single battery charge?

The flight duration per battery charge is influenced by a variety of factors, including battery type and ambient temperature, payload weight, wind conditions, and the rate at which the drone dispenses its payload. In the case of each of our drones, a single battery charge typically provides enough power for approximately two tank loads when spraying at a rate of 2+ gallons per acre (GPA).

What is the recharge time for the drone batteries?

With our standard recommended package, as outlined below, the batteries recharge nearly as quickly as the drone depletes them. This means you can operate continuously for 1-2 hours before needing to pause to allow the batteries to refresh. For particularly extensive tasks involving continuous flying throughout the day, you might want to consider acquiring an additional battery and charging station.

Here are the recommended quantities of batteries, chargers, and generator sizes for each drone model:

  • T10: 4 batteries, 1 charger, 5000-watt generator
  • T20: 4 batteries, 2 chargers, 7000-watt generator
  • T30: 3 batteries, 1 charger, 9000-watt generator
  • T40: 3 batteries, 1 charger, 12000-watt generator
What generator size is required?

For the T10 charger, a generator with a capacity of at least 4,500 running/continuous watts and a 30-amp, 240-volt twist lock plug is recommended, as it requires 3,500 watts (equivalent to 15 amps on 240 volts).

The T20, which requires two chargers to operate continuously throughout the day, will need a generator with a capacity of at least 7,500 running watts and a 30-amp, 240-volt twist lock plug, as the combined power draw is 7,000 watts (equivalent to 30 amps on 240 volts).

For the T30/T40 charger, which demands 8,000+ watts (equivalent to 35 amps on 240 volts), a generator with a capacity of at least 9,000 watts and a 50-amp, 240-volt, four-prong plug is recommended. Any generator with a 50-amp, 240-volt plug should suffice. We also offer the DJI 12000i generator/charger combo for T30 and T40 batteries.

When selecting your generator, take into account whether you need additional power for your remote battery charger, pumps, and fans. If you plan to operate multiple drones, you may require multiple generators or a larger commercial-grade generator.

What is the typical life expectancy of a sprayer drone?

In general, our drones are constructed for longevity. They are designed with minimal wear components, meaning that if properly maintained and free from accidents, parts replacement is seldom required.

All drone components are designed to be easily replaceable and modular, providing an affordable and straightforward process for part replacement. Here are specific details about some parts that may require replacement over time:

  • According to the manufacturer, T30 batteries are estimated to last for approximately 1,000 charge cycles.
  • The drone motors are all brushless, which is the industry standard for a service life of 10,000+ hours.
  • Electronic speed controllers (ESCs), responsible for motor control, may occasionally require replacement after approximately 150 hours of operation, though most often last over 300 hours.
  • Props may need replacement if they become chipped or cracked, but they are designed to endure through multiple seasons.
  • Certain parts of the spraying system, such as tips, hoses, and pump diaphragms, might require replacement after a few seasons of use.

Licensing and Regulations

Below are some common questions on licensing and regulations.

What licensing is required to fly a sprayer drone?

As our customer, we are committed to offering extensive resources to support you throughout the licensing process. These resources encompass complimentary study guides, access to a prominent drone regulations consultant, and connections with a leading drone insurance provider.

Here is a list of the essential licenses and certifications required for lawful operation of a sprayer drone in the United States:

  • FAA Part 107
  • FAA Part 137
  • FAA Section 44807 Weight Exemption (not mandatory for the T10 model)
  • Drone Registration
  • State Pesticide Applicators License
  • Liability Insurance (for commercial applications)

To delve further into the regulatory procedures, please visit: 

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