Use at least 10 pans to cover the full width of the spread. Twenty to thirty pans may be required for large spreaders. One square foot by 1 to 2 inches deep for small spreaders, and 2 to 4 inches deep for larger spreaders, is recommended. Rectangular shaped pans are preferred. Pans should be padded or baffled.
Material bouncing into or out of the pans can affect results.
Make several passes in the same direction over the pans. Make sure the spreader is open before reaching the pans and remember to walk at the same speed you will use to distribute the material later. The data collected will be used to determine the distribution pattern and the application rate. Empty each collection container into separate identical cylindrical tubes and examine the distribution pattern across the series of tubes. A desirable pattern is one that peaks in the center and descends evenly on each side forming a bell-shaped curve.