Spreaders

Spreaders are devices or agents used to distribute materials or information over a target area. In agriculture and landscaping, spreaders are common tools for applying granular fertilizers, seeds, or lime. They come in several forms, with rotary or broadcast spreaders and drop spreaders being the main categories. Rotary spreaders use a hopper to feed material to a rotating impeller or disc, which throws the contents outward in a wide arc. Drop spreaders release material through a gate above a narrow chute, dropping it more directly beneath the device for controlled, precise placement. Both types may feature adjustable rate controls, variable spread widths, and optional agitators to prevent material bridging.

Calibration is essential for accurate spreading. Operators typically weigh and apply a known area, compare the actual coverage to the target, and adjust the dial setting, gate size, or drive speed accordingly. Material characteristics such as particle size, moisture, and weight, as well as field conditions like wind and slope, influence performance. Common maintenance tasks include cleaning after use, preventing hopper contamination, and checking moving parts for wear.

Beyond agriculture, spreaders can refer to individuals or channels that disseminate substances or information, including public-health or media contexts. In epidemiology, the term may relate to spreaders of disease, while in communications it can describe actors who accelerate message diffusion. The term is also used for equipment in other industries, such as paint or lime application, where controlled dispersion is required.