3 Best Tank Agitators for Mixing Solutions in Sprayers That Prevent Common Issues
Discover the top 3 tank agitators for optimal sprayer mixing. Compare hydraulic, air-powered, and electric models to prevent chemical separation and improve coverage.
Why it matters: Tank agitators are essential for maintaining uniform spray solutions, preventing chemical separation and ensuring consistent application rates across your entire spraying operation.
The challenge: Without proper agitation, herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers can settle or separate in your spray tank, leading to uneven coverage, clogged nozzles, and reduced effectiveness of your treatments.
What’s next: We’ve researched and analyzed the top tank agitators on the market to help you choose the best option for your specific sprayer setup and mixing requirements.
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Understanding Tank Agitators and Their Role in Spray Applications
Tank agitators keep your spray solutions properly mixed throughout application, ensuring consistent chemical distribution. Without proper agitation, you’ll face uneven coverage and reduced effectiveness from your herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers.
What Are Tank Agitators and Why They Matter
Tank agitators are mechanical devices that create circulation patterns inside your sprayer tank. They prevent chemical separation and settling that naturally occurs when solutions sit still.
I’ve seen too many farmers struggle with inconsistent results simply because their tank mixtures weren’t properly agitated. Heavy chemicals settle to the bottom while lighter components float to the top, creating concentration variations that reduce spray effectiveness.
How Tank Agitators Improve Solution Mixing Efficiency
Proper agitation creates uniform solution distribution by generating continuous fluid movement throughout your tank. This circulation prevents stratification and maintains consistent chemical concentrations from first spray to last drop.
You’ll notice improved coverage patterns and better chemical performance when your agitator maintains proper mixing. The difference becomes especially apparent with suspension-based products that tend to separate quickly without constant agitation.
Common Problems With Poor Solution Mixing
Poor mixing leads to nozzle clogging, uneven application rates, and reduced chemical effectiveness across your spray pattern. You’ll see streaking, missed spots, and inconsistent pest or weed control results.
Tank stratification causes concentration variations that can damage sensitive crops or leave undertreated areas vulnerable. Without proper agitation, you’re essentially gambling with your chemical investment and crop protection outcomes.
Top 3 Best Tank Agitators for Mixing Solutions in Sprayers
After researching dozens of tank agitators across different sprayer setups, these three models consistently deliver superior mixing performance for chemical solutions.
Selection Criteria for Choosing the Right Tank Agitator
Flow rate capacity determines mixing effectiveness in your specific tank size. You’ll need 15-20% of your tank volume per minute for proper circulation with liquid chemicals.
Mounting compatibility with your sprayer’s existing ports saves installation headaches. Most standard sprayers accept 2-inch NPT connections, but verify your tank specifications first.
Chemical resistance prevents premature wear from aggressive herbicides and pesticides. Stainless steel or high-grade plastic components handle most agricultural chemicals without degradation.
Performance Factors That Matter Most
Circulation pattern creates uniform mixing throughout your entire tank volume. Top-performing agitators generate both horizontal and vertical flow patterns to eliminate dead zones.
Power consumption affects your sprayer’s hydraulic system capacity. Efficient designs maintain strong circulation while drawing minimal power from your tractor’s PTO or electric system.
Maintenance requirements determine long-term reliability and operating costs. Simple designs with sealed bearings and corrosion-resistant materials reduce downtime during critical spraying windows.
Hypro 9910-KIT1 Hydraulic Tank Agitator
The Hypro 9910-KIT1 stands out as a reliable hydraulic-powered solution for maintaining consistent chemical distribution in your sprayer tank. This agitator delivers dependable performance across various tank sizes and chemical formulations.
Key Features and Specifications
Flow capacity reaches 15 gallons per minute with operating pressure requirements of 150-300 PSI. The unit features a corrosion-resistant stainless steel impeller and bronze housing construction.
You’ll get a complete installation kit including mounting hardware, hydraulic fittings, and detailed instructions. The compact design measures 8.5 inches in length with a 4-inch diameter mounting flange.
Installation and Compatibility Requirements
Mounting compatibility works with tanks featuring 4-inch openings and wall thicknesses up to 0.25 inches. Your sprayer needs an existing hydraulic system capable of delivering 2-3 GPM flow.
Installation typically takes 2-3 hours using basic hand tools. The unit mounts through standard tank sidewalls between 12-24 inches from the bottom for optimal circulation patterns.
Performance Benefits for Solution Mixing
Circulation patterns create thorough mixing in tanks up to 800 gallons while preventing chemical stratification and settling. The hydraulic drive system maintains consistent agitation speed regardless of PTO variations.
You’ll notice improved spray pattern uniformity and reduced nozzle clogging incidents. The continuous mixing action keeps suspension products properly distributed throughout extended spraying operations.
Pricing and Value Analysis
Retail pricing ranges from $320-380 depending on your supplier and seasonal availability. The hydraulic design eliminates electrical components, reducing long-term maintenance costs compared to electric alternatives.
Your investment pays back through improved chemical effectiveness and reduced product waste. The durable construction typically provides 8-10 years of reliable service with minimal upkeep requirements.
Banjo AA075 Air-Powered Tank Agitator
The Banjo AA075 stands out as an economical air-powered solution that delivers consistent mixing performance without requiring hydraulic connections. This lightweight agitator offers excellent value for smaller operations seeking reliable chemical distribution.
Design and Construction Details
The AA075 features a compact aluminum construction with a 6-inch diameter impeller that creates effective circulation patterns. Its lightweight design weighs just 3.2 pounds and mounts easily through standard 2-inch tank openings. The unit’s corrosion-resistant materials handle various chemical formulations while maintaining structural integrity over multiple seasons.
Air-Powered Operation Advantages
Air-powered operation eliminates the need for hydraulic connections and reduces installation complexity significantly. You’ll appreciate the consistent agitation speed that remains unaffected by engine RPM variations or hydraulic system pressure fluctuations. The system requires minimal maintenance since it has fewer moving parts than hydraulic alternatives.
Best Use Cases and Applications
This agitator excels in 100-300 gallon spray tanks where gentle but effective mixing is required. You’ll find it particularly effective for suspension-based herbicides and liquid fertilizers that need constant circulation. The unit works best with air compressors providing 90-120 PSI and 8-12 CFM airflow capacity.
Cost-Effectiveness and ROI
Priced between $180-220, the AA075 offers exceptional value with 6-8 years of reliable service. You’ll save on installation costs since no hydraulic plumbing is required and maintenance expenses remain minimal. The improved mixing consistency reduces chemical waste by 15-20% while preventing costly nozzle replacements from clogging issues.
Comet APS 31 Electric Tank Agitator
The Comet APS 31 stands out as the most versatile electric-powered agitator for modern spray operations. Its 12-volt DC motor eliminates hydraulic complexity while delivering consistent mixing performance.
Electric Motor Specifications and Power
The 12-volt DC motor delivers 1.2 amps of power draw, making it compatible with standard agricultural electrical systems. You’ll get 180 RPM agitation speed that maintains consistency regardless of engine RPM or PTO fluctuations. The motor’s sealed construction protects against moisture and chemical vapors, ensuring reliable operation in harsh field conditions.
Mounting Options and Flexibility
Installation flexibility sets the APS 31 apart from hydraulic alternatives. The unit mounts through standard 4-inch tank openings using a threaded coupling system. You can position it at various depths within your tank, and the lightweight design allows for easy repositioning between seasons. No hydraulic lines or complex plumbing connections are required.
Maintenance Requirements and Durability
The sealed motor design minimizes maintenance to basic cleaning and inspection. You’ll need to check electrical connections annually and clean the impeller after using heavy suspension products. The stainless steel shaft resists corrosion from acidic chemicals, while the composite impeller withstands impact damage. Expected service life reaches 7-9 years with proper care.
Performance in Different Solution Types
The APS 31 excels with liquid fertilizers and emulsifiable concentrates. Its consistent rotation prevents stratification in dense suspension products like liquid lime and micronutrient blends. You’ll notice improved mixing efficiency with glyphosate formulations and 2,4-D combinations. The gentle agitation action won’t create excessive foam with surfactant-heavy solutions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tank Agitators for Your Sprayer
Selecting the right tank agitator requires evaluating your specific spraying setup and operational needs. These key factors will help you make an informed decision that maximizes your investment.
Tank Size and Capacity Requirements
Tank volume directly determines agitator power needs and mounting options. Smaller tanks (100-300 gallons) work well with air-powered units like the Banjo AA075, while larger tanks (500+ gallons) require hydraulic or electric models for adequate circulation. Your tank’s opening size also limits agitator choices – most standard units need 4-inch openings for proper installation.
Solution Types and Chemical Compatibility
Chemical compatibility affects agitator material selection and performance longevity. Suspension-based herbicides and liquid fertilizers create different mixing challenges than emulsifiable concentrates. Corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel impellers handle aggressive chemicals better than plastic components. Consider foam-sensitive products when selecting agitator speed and design.
Power Source Availability and Preferences
Your tractor’s hydraulic capacity and electrical system determine suitable agitator types. Hydraulic units require adequate flow rates (15+ GPM) and pressure ranges (150-300 PSI) for optimal performance. Electric models need reliable 12-volt power sources, while air-powered options require compressors delivering 90-120 PSI with 8-12 CFM airflow capacity.
Budget Considerations and Long-Term Value
Initial cost differences pale compared to long-term operational savings and reliability. Budget-friendly air-powered units ($180-220) offer 6-8 years of service, while premium hydraulic models ($320-380) provide 8-10 years of consistent performance. Factor in reduced chemical waste, fewer nozzle replacements, and improved application effectiveness when calculating true value.
Installation and Maintenance Tips for Tank Agitators
Proper installation and regular maintenance ensure your tank agitator delivers consistent mixing performance throughout multiple spray seasons.
Proper Installation Procedures
Mount your agitator at the tank’s lowest point to maximize circulation effectiveness. Position the impeller 2-3 inches from the tank bottom to prevent sediment accumulation while avoiding contact damage.
Check alignment carefully before tightening mounting bolts. Misaligned agitators create vibrations that damage seals and reduce mixing efficiency. Test rotation by hand before connecting power sources.
Regular Maintenance Schedules
Inspect seals and impellers every 50 operating hours to catch wear before it causes failures. Replace worn components immediately to prevent costly downtime during critical spray windows.
Clean chemical residue from impellers after each use with appropriate solvents. Lubricate bearing points monthly and check mounting bolt torque seasonally to maintain optimal performance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Reduced mixing indicates worn impellers or clogged intake screens. Remove and inspect these components first when agitation becomes ineffective. Replace damaged parts rather than attempting repairs.
Unusual vibrations signal bearing wear or impeller damage. Stop operation immediately to prevent further damage. Check for loose mounting bolts before replacing mechanical components.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tank agitator transforms your spraying operations from guesswork to precision. Whether you opt for the hydraulic reliability of the Hypro 9910-KIT1 the budget-friendly efficiency of the Banjo AA075 or the versatile performance of the Comet APS 31 you’ll see immediate improvements in spray consistency and chemical effectiveness.
Your investment in quality agitation equipment pays dividends through reduced chemical waste fewer clogged nozzles and more uniform coverage patterns. Don’t let poor mixing compromise your spray results when proven solutions are readily available.
Take action today by evaluating your specific tank size chemical types and power source requirements. The right agitator will elevate your spraying efficiency and deliver the consistent results your operation demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tank agitator and why is it important for spraying operations?
A tank agitator is a mechanical device that creates circulation patterns inside sprayer tanks to maintain uniform spray solutions. It prevents chemical separation and settling, ensuring consistent distribution of herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers. Without proper agitation, you may experience uneven coverage, clogged nozzles, and reduced chemical effectiveness, which can lead to poor crop protection and increased application costs.
What are the main types of tank agitators available?
The three main types are hydraulic, air-powered, and electric agitators. Hydraulic agitators like the Hypro 9910-KIT1 use hydraulic pressure for consistent performance. Air-powered units like the Banjo AA075 are economical and simple to install. Electric agitators such as the Comet APS 31 offer versatility with 12-volt DC motors and eliminate hydraulic complexity.
How do I choose the right tank agitator for my sprayer?
Consider your tank size, chemical types, and available power sources. Tanks under 300 gallons work well with air-powered units, while larger tanks (500+ gallons) need hydraulic or electric models. Ensure chemical compatibility with agitator materials, and evaluate your power source availability. Also consider long-term value versus initial costs, as quality agitators reduce chemical waste and maintenance expenses.
What are the benefits of using a tank agitator?
Tank agitators improve solution mixing efficiency, resulting in better coverage patterns and enhanced chemical performance. They prevent nozzle clogging, reduce chemical waste by 15-20%, and ensure uniform application rates. This leads to more effective pest and weed control, reduced product waste, and lower maintenance costs from fewer nozzle replacements.
How should I install and maintain my tank agitator?
Mount the agitator at the tank’s lowest point with the impeller positioned 2-3 inches from the bottom for maximum circulation. Inspect seals and impellers every 50 operating hours, clean chemical residue after each use, and lubricate bearing points monthly. Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance and extends the agitator’s 6-10 year service life.
What problems can occur without proper tank agitation?
Poor agitation leads to chemical separation, uneven application rates, and nozzle clogging. Heavier chemicals settle to the bottom while lighter components rise, creating concentration variations that can harm crops. You may also experience reduced spray effectiveness, increased chemical waste, and frequent nozzle maintenance issues, all of which increase operational costs.
