Teagasc has launched a digital tool aimed at assisting farmers in applying slurry using low-emission slurry spreading (LESS) equipment.

The ‘Slurry Spreader Calibration Calculator’ is intended to help farmers figure out how fast their forward speed should be at spreading in order to ensure an even application of slurry.

Teagasc noted that a large number of farmers will be moving over to LESS equipment from the traditional splash plate this coming slurry-spreading season.

According to Teagasc, it is important to ensure, when changing methods of application, that slurry is applied evenly; at the right rate; and at the correct time.

The new tool will work with all slurry tankers, Teagasc says.

The authority notes that, in many cases, the forward speed of the tractor will have to be increased “considerably” in order to maintain the same application rate compared to a splash-plate.

This, Teagasc said, can be “a bit of a guessing game”.

The calculator, which can be used on a mobile phone, works by adjusting a number of ‘sliders’ in order to put in your spreading details. The calculator then produces the forward speed required.

“To use the calculator you will need to time how long it takes to empty the first load of slurry. Once you have this information then you can input other information such as the tank size, the working width and the desired application rate,” explained Francis Quigley, Teagasc farm machinery specialist.

He added: “Once you have set the sliders to match your spreading details then you can read off the forward speed needed. Simply set your forward speed to match and you are all good to go.”

The Slurry Spreader Calibration Calculator is available through the Teagasc website.