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Oberdorfer - Applications - Agriculture - Mosquito Control

Mosquito Control

Aerial ULV Spraying with Oberdorfer Chemsteel Pumps

Controlling mosquito populations is critical for public health, especially in regions prone to mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, and West Nile virus. One of the most effective large-scale methods is aerial spraying using ULV (Ultra-Low Volume) insecticides. These are highly concentrated chemical formulations applied in extremely fine droplets to maximize coverage while minimizing environmental impact.

Aerial Spraying Systems: How They Work

  1. Aircraft Platform: Fixed-wing planes or helicopters are equipped with spray booms and tanks.
  2. Chemical Reservoir: Holds the ULV insecticide concentrate.
  3. Oberdorfer Chemsteel Pump: Mounted externally on the aircraft, it draws the insecticide and delivers it at a precise, low flow rate.
  4. Atomizing Nozzles: The pump feeds the chemical into nozzles that create a fine mist, dispersing it over large areas.
  5. Coverage: The mist drifts with air currents, targeting adult mosquitoes in flight or resting on vegetation.

Why Oberdorfer Chemsteel Pumps Are Ideal for ULV Spraying

  1. Corrosion-Resistant Construction
    • Pump housings and gears are made from non-galling stainless steel, which resists wear and chemical attack.
    • Teflon (PTFE) components are used for seals and internal parts to withstand the highly corrosive nature of ULV insecticides.
  2. Precision Flow Control
    • As positive displacement gear pumps, Chemsteel models deliver a fixed volume per shaft revolution, ensuring consistent and accurate dosing.
    • Flow rate is directly proportional to shaft speed, making them ideal for DC motor control in aircraft.
  3. External Mounting and DC Drive

    • Pumps are designed for external mounting on aircraft fuselages or spray pods.
    • Powered by DC motors (also available from Oberdorfer), they integrate seamlessly into aerial spray systems.
  4. Lightweight and Compact
    • Critical for aviation use, where weight and space are limited.
    • Durable enough to withstand vibration, altitude, and temperature extremes.
Mosquito Control - Infographic

Benefits for Mosquito Control Programs

  • Efficient Coverage: ULV spraying allows treatment of large areas in a short time.
  • Public Health Protection: Reduces mosquito populations and disease transmission.
  • Environmental Safety: Low-volume, targeted application minimizes chemical exposure to non-target species.
  • Operational Reliability: Chemsteel pumps ensure consistent performance in mission-critical applications.

Typical Use Cases

  • Municipal Mosquito Control Programs
  • Disaster Relief Zones (e.g., post-flooding)
  • Military Bases and Camps
  • Tropical Agriculture Zones
  • Wetlands and Marshlands