Spray nozzles clog up because particles in the spray solution that are larger than the orifice get to them, and this causes a waste of time and material that we can easily prevent.

Check the screen on all of your line strainers. Aside from making sure that they are not damaged or bent (which would certainly let large particles get by), check the screen size (mesh) and set them up as follows:

The strainer closest to the nozzles should have a screen size just a little smaller than the orifice of the nozzle. This will assure that particles that could lodge in the orifice and clog it do not reach the nozzle. Spray tip manufacturers recommend the mesh size for each of their tips. Check with your supplier for the proper combination.

If you have another strainer in line between the pump and the nozzles (and this is recommended) that screen size (mesh) can be one or two sizes larger than the last strainer.

And now to the main strainer. The one between the tank and the suction side of the pump.This one can have a screen as big as 16 mesh, which will allow the larger particles in the spray solution to recirculate and thus reduce the suction load on the pump. A fine mesh on this strainer will cause caking-up and blockage and will shorten the life of the pump. (the principal cause of diaphragm failure).

With this set-up, the other strainers down the line will take care of the filtering and, provided that the screens are in good condition, your nozzle blockage should be minimal. This type of filtering under pressure will break down particles in the solution, especially when using wettable powders, and allow them to be sprayed.