The Science of Sprinkler Irrigation: Understanding Water Distribution and Coverage
Do you want to install a sprinkler irrigation system for your farm? Before you do that, it would help to understand the water distribution and coverage factors associated with it.
What is a Sprinkler Irrigation System?
A sprinkler irrigation system is a widely used farm-water application technique that applies water as rainfall or spray. The system does it with the help of various pipes and pumps. It helps provide water to the crops in the required quantities.
Benefits of Sprinkler Irrigation System – Overview
Some fundamental advantages of a sprinkler irrigation system include the following.
- The system is cost-effective and easy to install
- Its interference with cultivation for setting up the system is very low
- Assurance of equal water distribution
- The system can be installed for all soil types
- You can control the amount of water you apply to the crops
- Consequently, you can save a substantial amount of water
- The system provides a cooling effect in high-temperature conditions
- A sprinkler system does not require terracing
- It is suitable for crops with a higher plant density
Sprinkler System – Water Distribution and Coverage
Sprinkler irrigation systems are known for their uniform water distribution and coverage. However, various external and internal factors can affect it. Accordingly, let's understand the concept of wetting patterns in sprinklers first.
The wetting pattern from a single rotary sprinkler is not highly uniform. Usually, the wetted area is circular. The area closest to the sprinkler is often the wettest.
To achieve uniform water distribution and coverage and to overlap the sprinklers' pattern, you must position sprinklers closely and operate several of them together. Speaking of the overlap, it should be at least 65 percent of the wetted diameter. It helps determine the maximum spacing that you can maintain between sprinklers.
Additionally, external factors like wind and water pressure can affect sprinkler water distribution uniformity and coverage. Even a gentle breeze can let the spray drift and affect the latter's uniformity. Accordingly, to reduce the effect of wind, you must position the sprinklers closely together.
Another significant factor is the operating pressure. It should be per the manufacturer's recommendations. Anything above or below the prescribed range can affect distribution uniformity and coverage. One common problem is low pressure. It happens when the pipes and pumps wear. Increased friction reduces the sprinkler's pressure. Consequently, the water jet does not break up, thus causing all the water to fall in a single area towards the wetted circle's exterior. Similarly, high pressure can also impact distribution. It develops a fine spray that remains proximal to the sprinkler and does not venture beyond a particular area, thus affecting distribution uniformity and coverage.
Optimize Your Sprinkler Irrigation System Efficiency with Netafim!
Netafim is one of India's top solution providers for sprinkler irrigation systems. We manufacture and help farmers install, operate, and maintain sprinkler irrigation systems.
Our experts conduct a comprehensive study of the soil type, prevailing external conditions, crop requirements, etc. It enables us to install sprinkler systems that help optimize irrigation efficiency, achieve uniform distribution, and cover the desired area under cultivation.
Click https://www.netafimindia.com/contact-us/ to connect with us and discuss your sprinkler system needs with our experts.
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