What is the function of baffles inside a liquid spray tank in aerial application?

The function of baffles inside a liquid spray tank in aerial application is primarily to reduce sloshing of the liquid during flight. When an aircraft maneuvers, the liquid in the tank can move around, potentially affecting both the stability of the aircraft and the evenness of the application. Baffles are designed to disrupt the free movement of the liquid, allowing for a more stable environment within the tank. This stabilization is crucial for ensuring that the aerial applicator maintains control and achieves an accurate and uniform distribution of the spray.

Maintaining consistent pressure, while important, is not the primary role of baffles. Baffles do not actively regulate pressure; instead, they serve more to manage the liquid’s motion. Filtration of impurities typically occurs earlier in the process of preparing the liquid before it enters the spray tank, rather than through baffles. Additionally, baffles do not increase the overall capacity of the tank; their purpose is to improve the performance and safety of the application rather than altering the tank’s physical size or volume.