Trials & Product Development
Slug Pellet Testing
Who we work with
We work with slug pellet manufacturers and applicator manufacturers who need to understand how their products perform through the applicators commonly used on UK farms.
We also support efficacy trials alongside accredited organisations, where we assess spread pattern and width, and collect samples across the bout for pellet integrity and breakage analysis.
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What we do
We carry out independent tray testing of slug pellets to measure spread width, distribution balance, and overall application accuracy.
A well-balanced spread pattern and consistent working width are essential for effective and responsible pellet application.
Our testing helps confirm whether a product achieves both — ensuring reliable field performance and compliance with stewardship requirements.
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We also offer rate calibration, producing output tables for a range of application rates.
These tables follow the same principles used in the Certis Slug Pellet Calibration Wizard, which was developed using SCS trial data.
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How We Do It
Step 1 - Pellet Analysis
Each project begins with a detailed pellet assessment — measuring pellet size, crush strength, and bulk density.
This provides the baseline for understanding how physical properties influence spreading behaviour and allows fair comparison between products or batches
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Step 2 - Tray Testing
We conduct field tray testing to determine the working width and evaluate the spread pattern across the full bout width.
Results highlight any imbalance or narrowing of the spread width, ensuring both an accurate throw and even pellet distribution.​​
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​Step 3 – Additional Testing & Analysis
Depending on project needs, we can include:
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Rate calibration – establishing settings for a range of application rates.
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Product benchmarking – comparing your product against competitor formulations.
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Sample collection – capturing material across the bout width for laboratory analysis in efficacy or registration trials.
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Step 4 – Reporting
Each project delivers a tailored report that can include:
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Product analysis data
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Recommended spread width and pattern summary
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Optional calibration tables
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Photographs or video footage from testing
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
"Fertilisers and application equipment are continually evolving.
To keep ICL at the forefront of the industry, we utilize the service from Spreader & Sprayer Testing to rigorously evaluate our products and provide the calibration data we use every day.
This ensures that each machine and fertiliser we offer is optimised for accurate and efficient spreading, giving us confidence in their performance."
Dr Andy Owen, International Technical Manager, ICL Growing Solutions
