Advanced Pressurized Irrigation

Systems
EiT-M, School of Civil Engineering, IEC
March, 2020
 Chapter Two

Design of Sprinkler Irrigation Systems

Contents
• Introduction
• Planning and data analysis
• Water distribution in a sprinkler system
• Design and layout of sprinkler systems
• Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
• Performance measures for sprinkler systems
• Operation and maintenance of sprinkler irrigation system
Objectives
• At the end of the chapter, students will be able to :
• Understand different types of sprinkler systems and basic components for each system
• Understand basic data required for design of sprinkler irrigation systems
• Understand design of different sprinkler irrigation systems
• Estimate cost of different sprinkler irrigation systems
• Understand basic procedures for field evaluation of sprinkler irrigation systems
• Understand basic procedures for identifying and removing common troubles in
sprinkler irrigation systems
Introduction
Definition
• Sprinkler irrigation is a system in
which water is applied from a pipe
network to crops above the ground
in the form of sprays, somewhat
resembling rainfall.
• Sprinkler system generally requires
a pumping device to drive water
from the source to the pipe
network.
• Sprinkler systems can be Fig. 1: Sprinkler irrigation
pressurized by gravity, if sufficient
head is available
Introduction
Principles of operation of sprinkler system
• In sprinkler system, water is conveyed from the source to the field by network of pipes.
• The pressure due to sufficient head (gravity) or pump causes the water to flow out through small
opening (sprinkler nozzle) and fly through the air and falls onto the soil surface.
• The pipes used in sprinkler system are called main, submain and lateral pipes.
• The main pipe takes water from the supply pipe, which is short pipe connected to the source or
pump.
• The submain pipes provide water to lateral pipes which are the smallest pipes in the system.
• Riser pipe is connected to the lateral pipe at regular spacing at one end while the other ends are
connected to a device which is called sprinkler nozzle.
• It is through this nozzle or small opening that water is applied or sprayed onto the field.
• As water is coming out from the system through small openings on the sprinkler heads, the system
requires relatively clean water.
• Depending upon the level of debris in the water, additional component such as water filter is
required
Introduction
Benefits of sprinkler irrigation system
• The major benefits of using sprinkler irrigation system are:
• It can be applied on irregular topography and steep slopes of up to 20% that cannot be
irrigated by surface irrigation without producing runoff or erosion.
• It can be used on soils with low water holding capacity such as sandy soils which is
difficult under surface irrigation due to high infiltration rate.
• It can be applied on proper irrigation of problem soils with intermixed textures and
profiles or the irrigation of shallow soils that cannot be graded without detrimental results.
• It is suited to irrigate most row, field and tree crops
• It delivers water uniformly throughout the field and at high water use efficiency.
• Effective use of water from various sources such as small, and continuous streams of
water, such as from springs and small tube or dug wells.
Introduction
Benefits (cont.…)
• System operation is simple and labor requirement is low. Labor is only needed for a short
time each day for pipe moving during operation (for hand move lateral system).
• Since water is transported through pipes, no contamination of the irrigation water during
transport and avoids water losses.
• The system is also known to modify the micro climate (hot and freezing conditions)
• Light and frequent irrigations are so easily managed by using the system, in many
situations such as for shallow rooted crops, and germination of new plants.
• As field channels are not required in the system, more areas become available for crop
production.
Introduction
Limitations
• Although sprinkler system has many benefits, it has the following limitations:
• System installation cost is relatively high.
• As the water is applied in the form of sprays, they are easily drifted away under high wind
conditions.
• System operation interfere farm activities like cultivation
• Since the whole area is wetted, it promotes weed growth.
• Pump is required for the system if sufficient head is not available. This will be extra cost of the
energy consumed for creation of water pressure.
• Overhead application may induce leaf diseases as some crops are sensitive to wet conditions.
• As sprinkler nozzles are small, it might be blocked by suspended sediments.
• Planning and design of the system requires good technical know-how and its operation needs
great attention.
Introduction
Types of sprinkler irrigation
• Sprinkler irrigation system can be classified based on:
• Method of water application
• Type of installation
• Movement
• Precipitation rates
Introduction
Perforated pipe sprinkler system
• It consists of holes perforated in
the lateral irrigation pipe
• It is usually designed for low
operating pressure
• It is suitable for soils having
moderately high infiltration rates.
• Clean water is required to prevent
clogging of the small perforations.
• This system is suitable for lawn,
garden and small vegetables.

Fig. 2: Perforated pipe sprinkler system

Introduction
Rotating head sprinkler system

• Small size nozzles are placed on riser

pipes at uniform intervals along the
length of lateral .
• The sprinkler heads mounted on the
risers which are above the crop height
are rotated through 900 to 3600, to
irrigate a rectangular strip.

Fig. 3: Rotating head sprinkler system

Introduction
Types of sprinkler irrigation systems[based on portability]
• Depending upon the movement of lateral, submain, mainline, pumping unit the system is
classified into different types.
• Fully portable system: It means entire unit of sprinkler system can be shifted from one
place to another place.
• Semi-portable system: It is similar to the fully portable system except that the location of
filtration unit and pumping plant is fixed near the water source.
• Semi-permanent system: In this system, only the lightweight laterals and sprinklers head
are portable.
• Fully permanent sprinkler system: All components of sprinkler system are permanent.
The mainline, submain and lateral are buried in the ground at about 60 to 90 cm depth.
These are costly and automation can be done with moisture sensing devices and mostly used
for permanent orchards.
Introduction
Types of sprinkler irrigation systems[based on movement]
• Based on movement, sprinkler systems may be divided in to:
• Set move sprinkler systems: this system can be moved from one set position to another
set manually or mechanically.
• Set move systems remains stationary as long as water is applied, then system is
shutoff, the sprinkler laterals are drained and moved to the next set position repeatedly
until the entire field has been irrigated.
• Solid set system: It has sufficient laterals and sprinkler heads to irrigate entire field
simultaneously.
• The laterals are laid in the field early in the crop season and remain for the entire
season.
• Continuous move systems- systems that operate while the sprinkler is moving through
the field.
Introduction
Hand move lateral system
• In this system:
• Laterals are moved manually from one position to another.
• Each lateral is transferred several times to different positions during the irrigation cycle.
• This system is used to irrigate more area than any other type of set system.
• It is usually applied:
• In small plots of field crops, vegetables and orchards,
• In fields that are not suitable for mechanized irrigation,
• Solid set systems are beyond owner’s financial capacity
• Comparatively, the initial investment on hand move system is not high but the labor cost is
more.
Introduction
Hand move lateral system

Fig. 4: Layout of hand move sprinkler system

Introduction
Side roll sprinkler system

• In the mechanical move system,

the lateral is mounted on wheels
and is moved as a unit instead of
one pipe at a time.
• The wheel move system
involves higher capital
investment but the labor
requirement is less.

Fig. 5: Side roll sprinkler system

Introduction
Solid set sprinkler systems
• A solid set sprinkler system has
enough lateral pipe and
sprinkler heads so that none of
the laterals need to be moved
for irrigation purposes after
being placed in the field
• To irrigate the field, the
sprinklers (or laterals) need only
to be cycled on and off.
• Solid-set systems save labor, are
conveniently operated and are
compatible with all the types of
Fig. 6: Fixed Sprinkler Systems
automatic control systems.
Introduction
Traveling sprinkler
• Travelling sprinkler or traveler,
is high capacity sprinkler fed
with water through a flexible
hose; it is mounted on a self-
powered chassis and travels
along a straight line while
watering.
• The sprinkler is mounted on a
moving vehicle and wets a
diameter of more than 120m.
• Traveling sprinklers require the
highest pressure of any system.
Fig. 7: Mobile rain gun sprinkler system
Introduction
Center-pivot system

• Center-pivot system consists

of a pipeline rotating around
a pivot point and supported
by a large number of self-
propelled towers.
• Water is supplied at the pivot
point and flows outward
through pipeline and is
distributed through rotating
sprinklers located on the
pipeline at regular intervals.

Fig. 8: Centre pivot system

Introduction
Linear-moving laterals
• Linear moving laterals combine the
structure and guidance system of a
center-pivot lateral with a traveling
water feed system similar to a
traveling sprinkler.
• For efficient operation, linear moving
laterals require rectangular field free
from obstructions.
• A major disadvantage of linear
moving lateral systems, compared
with center-pivot systems, is the
problem of bringing the lateral back
Fig. 9: Linear move system to the starting position
Introduction
Components of sprinkler irrigation system
A typical sprinkler irrigation system consists
of Pumping unit, pipeline, couplers, sprinkler
head and other accessories such as valves,
bends, plugs and risers.

Fig. 10: Components and general layout of sprinkler systems

Introduction
Pumping unit • In sprinkler system, water is carried in the
pipe network under pressure.
• A pump may be required to create this
pressure (to provide sufficient head) for the
system to operate.
• The pump is selected depending upon the
required discharge and pumping water head.
• Centrifugal pump is generally used if the
water source is from irrigation ditches, lakes,
ponds, river channels, shallow wells or
surface reservoirs.
• Debris screen or strainer is provided on the
water source end of the suction pipe to filter
Fig.11: Typical centrifugal pump installation out any large debris from entering into the
system.
Introduction
The head control unit • It consists of mostly short supply
pipeline; the shut-off, and check (non-
return) valves, fertilizer connections and
tank, and water filter.
• The supply pipe is a rigid galvanized
steel pipe installed horizontally at a
minimum height of 60cm above ground.
• For small land holdings, the control unit
can be as simple as possible.
• The fertilizer injector is not always
needed, as many farmers prefer to apply
solid fertilizer manually.
Fig.12: The head control unit • Where a filter is needed, it is installed at
the beginning of the supply pipe.
Introduction
• It comprises generally of three types: main, submain and
Pipe network laterals.
• Main and submain pipe lines are laid permanent or buried
below ground.
• They are commonly buried at about 45 to 65cm below
ground level so as to:
• Be out of the way of farming operations
• Protect from temperature changes.
• Main and submain pipe lines are made of plastic (rigid PVC
or HDPE) with Class 4, 6, 8 or 10.
• The class of the pipe implies that the pipes can resist up to a
nominal pressure (PN) of 4, 6, 8 or 10 bars which otherwise
get damaged.
• The lateral pipes are always laid as portable ones.
• They are usually made of aluminum pipe or plastic pipe
(HDPE) of Class 4 or 6 and are generally equipped with
Fig.13: Pipe line types used in sprinkler system quick coupling devices.
Introduction
Sprinkler head • It is a device with a nozzle mounted on a
short riser pipe to spray water onto the field.
• They are usually rotating type with two-
nozzle heads (long and short range).
• The long-range nozzle is to irrigate at
long distance from the sprinkler and
• The short-range nozzle is to apply the
area under and near the sprinkler.
• Sprinklers are available in various nozzle
sizes, flow discharges, operating pressures
and wetted diameters.
• Most agricultural sprinklers have a hammer-
drive slow-rotating or revolving mechanism
and use a low (<2.0 bars) to medium
Fig. 14: Sprinkler head operating pressure (2.0-4.0 bars).
Introduction
• Based on the method they use to distribute the
Types of sprinkler heads water, sprinkler heads are grouped into:
• Spray type sprinklers
• Rotor type sprinklers.
• Spray type sprinklers
• Small heads that spray a fan-shaped pattern
of water and that operate at low pressures
(less than 210 kPa) are currently available for
center-pivot and linear-move irrigation
systems.
• Rotating sprinklers head
• These sprinklers operate by rotating streams
of water back and forth or in circles over the
Fig. 15: Types of sprinkler heads landscape. Examples: impact sprinklers, gear
driven sprinklers, reaction sprinklers
Introduction
Impact sprinklers
• Impact sprinklers have one or more nozzles
that discharge jets of water into the air.
• These jets are rotated in a start and stop
manner as a spring-loaded arm strikes
(impacts) and then is bounded out of one of
the jets.
• The spring returns the arm to strike the jet
again and the process is repeated.
• Several different nozzle types have been
developed for impact sprinklers: constant-
Fig. 16: Typical “jets” from impact sprinklers with (a) diameter, constant discharge, and diffuse-
Diffuse-jet nozzle, and (b) Constant-diameter nozzle jet nozzles.
• Constant-diameter nozzles are the most
common type of nozzles
Introduction
Gear driven sprinklers
• Driven by a small water turbine located in the base of the sprinkler.
• Gear-driven sprinklers have one or more jets that rotate around the vertical axis of the
sprinkler.
• Gear-driven rotors are one of the most commonly used sprinkler heads for medium- to large-
scale sprinkler systems.
• Their low cost, quiet operation, and versatility are a few of the advantages that gear-driven
rotors have over impact rotors.
• They typically require less maintenance because the enclosed body design prevents clogging
of the drive mechanism from dirt and other debris.
Introduction
Riser pipe/drop tube
• Riser pipes attach the sprinkler to the lateral and raise heads above the crop so the crop does
not interfere with the spray, which distorts the spray pattern.
• Drop tubes are used on center-pivot or linear move systems to lower the sprinkler heads
below the lateral, but above the crop. This is often done to reduce wind drift.

Fig. 17: Riser pipe

Introduction
Quick couplers
• A coupler provides connection between two pipes and between pipes and fittings.
• For hand move laterals, couplers provide flexible connection that facilitate fast
disconnecting of the riser from the laterals.

Fig. 18: quick couplers

Introduction
Valves
• They control the flow of water in
irrigation systems.
• Valves in sprinkler irrigation system
provide services like:
• On-off service (gate or ball valve)
• Flow regulation (glob valve)
• Pressure regulation,
• Protection of pipe damage by trapped
Fig. 19: valves
air in the system (Air release)
• Backflow prevention (check valve)
Introduction
Water meter
• It is used to measure the volume of water
delivered.
• The common flow meter consists of a
casing containing a horizontal or vertical
impeller.
• The impeller is rotated by the flowing
water and transmits its rotational motion Fig. 20: Water meter
to a measuring scale mounted on top of
the casing.
• The flow meter visually displays the
readings of the delivered water amount.
Introduction
Pressure gauge
• It is used to measure and monitor the pressure under
which sprinkler is working in order to deliver the
water uniformly.
• A portable gauge can be used by an operator to read
the sprinkler pressure at the sprinkler nozzle which is
in use.

Fig. 21: Pressure gauge

Introduction
Filters
• Depending upon the level of impurities of the water,
different filter types can be used.
• If the level of impurities are high primary filters (sand and
hydrocyclone) are preferred.
• Sand or media filters are primarily suitable when
irrigating with water containing high organic loads
• Hydro-cyclones are used if the water is having sands.
• For low level of impurities, secondary filters (screen or disk
filters) are used.
• Screen filters are suitable to water with inorganic
impurities
• Disk filters are suitable for water containing mixed
impurities (inorganic solid particles and organic debris).
Fig. 22: Filters
Introduction
Fittings
• To facilitate proper connections of pipes, different types of fittings such as
• Flanges,
• Adapter are used
• Nipples

Fig. 23: Fittings

Planning and data analysis
Topographic Survey
• A topographical map at a scale of 1:1000 with contour interval of 1m or 0.5
• Depending on the topographic condition of the site and contour index of 2.5m will be used
for overall planning, layout and system design of the project.
• All existing physical structures on the area must be collected like
• Location of Water Sources (Well fields, boreholes, Springs and Rivers),
• Infrastructures,
• Drainage Outlets,
• Swamps & marshy areas,
• Existing irrigation schemes,
• Settlements,
• Land holding (private, cooperative , individual), other development activities etc.
Planning and data analysis
Climatic data
• Temperature,
• Humidity,
• wind speed, Which is collected from the metrological station about 20 year
data of the nearby station
• sunshine hours
• Rainfall
Water Resource Data
• For the design of the pressurized irrigation system :
• Location,
• Minimum discharge,
• Allowable time limitation in hours to extract the water resource,
• Static water level,
• Draw down and
• Quality of water for each water source.
Planning and data analysis
Crop /Agronomy Data
• The basic data required for design on each crop, proposed area, and water source and
recommended pressurized Irrigation system (drip, Sprinkler or both)
• Distance between rows/beds and plants
• Root Zone depth
• Planting and harvesting date
• Crop period
• Crop factor (Kc)
• Crop water requirement
• Crop rotation
Planning and data analysis
Soil Data
• The Soil survey and laboratory analysis results of the project,
• Soil map at a scale of same to the topographic map for pressurized irrigation system
• Land suitability and
• The physical properties of the soil:
• Soil type/Texture
• Bulk density
• Infiltration rate
• Field capacity W/W
• Available water content
• Allowable water depletion
• Total available soil moisture
Water distribution in sprinkler system
Water distribution uniformity
• The purpose of a sprinkler system is to distribute water over the surface of the soil uniformly.
• Right after installation and successful testing of pipes and fittings, the uniformity of the
sprinklers shall be tested.
• Properly designed sprinklers enable greater distribution uniformity.
• Uniformity of application depends on:
• Matching operating pressure with the selected sprinkler
• Nozzle diameter,
• Wind effects and
• Sprinkler spacing.
Water distribution in sprinkler system
Effect of pressure on uniformity of application

• If the pressure at the nozzle is too low, the water stream is not
adequately broken up and a donut-shaped application pattern
results.
• If the pressure at the nozzle is too high, the stream is broken up
in to excessively small droplets and the water doesn’t carry to
the extent of the design wetted diameter. Excessive amounts of
water are instead deposited in the vicinity of the nozzle.
• With proper operating pressure an application pattern close to
triangular shape (in cross sectional view) is produced by most
sprinkler nozzles.
Fig. 24: Effects of pressure
on uniformity of application
Water distribution in sprinkler system
Effect of wind on uniformity of application

• Prevailing wind condition can have a tremendous

effect on the application pattern of a sprinkler system.
• Consistent high velocity winds can in fact rule out the
effective use of sprinkler irrigation or limit operations
to times of relatively low winds such as night.

Fig. 25: Effects of wind on sprinkler

distribution pattern
Design and layout of sprinkler system
Phases of sprinkler system design
• The procedure for designing sprinkler irrigation systems can be divided into two phases:
• Preliminary design steps
• Adjustment or final design steps
• Preliminary design steps comprise the procedure for synthesizing farm data in order to
determine preliminary design parameters, which will be needed in the final design
adjustment process.
• The final design steps reconcile the preliminary design parameters obtained with the
irrigation equipment performance characteristics, as well as human, physical and financial
factors.
Design and layout of sprinkler system
Phases of sprinkler system design procedure
• The final design process involve:
• Identification of irrigation system options with farmer participation
• Preparation of system layout for the field shape and topography
• The hydraulic design and iterative adjustments
• Irrigation equipment selection taking into consideration economic and financial aspects
• Final irrigation system selection as well as options, taking into consideration farmers'
preferences, management capabilities, labour aspects, financial capabilities and
constraints
• The final design process is intended to make the irrigation system selected compatible with
the preliminary design factors.
• The final design process varies between the set-move systems and the continuous-move
systems.
Design and layout of sprinkler system
Steps in sprinkler irrigation system design
Step 1: Collect basic resource data at farm
The data include:
• A topographic map showing:
• The proposed irrigated area, with contour lines
• Farm and field boundaries and water source or sources
• Power points, such as electricity lines, in relation to water source and area to be
irrigated, roads and other relevant general features such as obstacles
• Data on water resources, quantity and quality over time, on water rights and on cost of
water where applicable
• The climate of the area and its influence on the water requirements of the selected crops
• The soil characteristics and their compatibility with the crops and irrigation system
proposed
• The types of crops intended to be grown and their compatibility with both the climate in the
area, the water availability and the soils; current agricultural practices should be identified
Design and layout of sprinkler system
Steps in sprinkler irrigation design • To achieve this, designer will:

Step 2: Analyse the farm data in order to determine • Determine moisture extraction depths
(root zone depths=RZD)
the following preliminary design parameters:
• Calculate peak water consumption
• Peak and total irrigation water requirements use (ETc)
• Infiltration rate of soils to be irrigated • Define allowable depletion (P)
• Maximum net depth of water application per • Calculate net irrigation application
irrigation (dnet)
• Calculate gross depth of application
• Irrigation frequency and cycle (dgross)
• Gross depth of water application • Calculate the irrigation frequency
• Preliminary system capacity and cycle
• Calculate preliminary system
capacity (Q)
Design and layout of sprinkler system
Steps in sprinkler irrigation design
Step 3: Sprinkler selection and spacing Step 10: Select pump and power source
Step 4: Determine Hydrant spacing Step 11: Select other components and
fittings
Step 5: Size Laterals and header lines.
Step 12: Prepare Drawings and Map of
Step 6: Sub main and Main line design/ Design
sizing
Step 13: Make a list of materials (BOQ)
Step 7: Size Delivery/supply line
Step 14: Estimate the capital cost
Step 8: Determine the Total Dynamic Head
(TDH) Step 15: Choose final option.
Step 9: Determine the power requirements Step 16: Prepare operation instructions
Note: Several design options should be prepared and the final option should be chosen with the
participation of the farmer/client.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
• The major steps in the design process of set-move sprinkler systems are:
• Laying out (mainlines, submains and laterals)
• Determining the number of laterals to be operated per irrigation
• Selecting sprinklers
• Developing pipeline, valve, and pumping plant specifications for the most feasible layouts
System layout
• Key factors affecting system layouts are:
• Topography
• Field shape
• Location of the water source
• Identifying the best layout often requires consideration of several alternate layouts and careful pipe-size
analysis.
• The layout selected is usually the one with the lowest total ownership and operation costs.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
• The following general rules should be kept in mind during sprinkler
System Layout irrigation system layout:
• Mains should be laid up and downhill.
• Laterals should be laid across slope or nearly on the contour as
much as possible.
• In windy areas laterals should be laid perpendicular to prevailing
winds during the irrigation season.
• For multiple lateral option, lateral pipe sizes should be limited to
not more than two diameters.
• If possible, water supply nearest to the center of area should be
chosen.
• Layouts should facilitate minimal lateral movement during a crop
season.
• Differences in number of sprinklers operating for various setups
should be minimum.
• Booster pumps should be considered where small portions of field
would require high pressure at the pump.
Fig. 26: Layouts for set move sprinkler • Layout should be modified to apply different rates and amounts of
system water where soils are greatly different in the design area.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hand move sprinkler system
• Hand move irrigation system is used on smaller farms.
• Lightweight aluminum pipes with sprinkler heads are put across fields, and they are moved
by hand at periodic intervals to insure that the whole field receives an adequate amount of
water.
• Work time include irrigation time and moving time.
• The length of time in a position is called irrigation set time.
Equipment movement time
• The time needed for moving the equipment depends on the distance between the former
place and the latter one, the velocity of disassemble and fix of the pipe set and the number
of the sets.
• Because the area of the filed is small and equipments are not many and the time of moving
is less than irrigation time, in a perfect design, the equipment should be moved as less as
possible.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hand move sprinkler system
• Number of settings of each lateral
Leng𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑
S=
Width at each setting
• Irrigation time to apply required depth of irrigation water (T, hrs.),
Depth of irrigation
T=
Application rate of sprinkler nozzle
• Time required to move the laterals
= Estimated time to move laterals from one posion to next position
• Time required to irrigate the whole area
= number of setting ∗ time required at each setting
• Time required to irrigate
= time needed to apply the required depth + time required to move the laterals
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hand move sprinkler system
Examples
1. Compute the time required to irrigate a square area of 4 ha to a depth of 5cm with two movable laterals
200m long each fitted with 16 sprinklers at an interval of 13m on each lateral. A sprinkler/nozzle
applies 1.25cm of water per hour and the laterals are spaced at 20m interval. Five hours are required to
move the laterals each time.
2. Determine the required capacity of a sprinkler system to apply water at the rate of 1.25cm/hr. Two 200
meters long sprinkler lines are required. Sixteen sprinklers are spaced at 12 meter intervals on each line.
The spacing between the lines is 20 meters. Allowing 1 hour for moving each 200 meter sprinkler line,
how many hours would be required to apply 5cm irrigation to a square 16 hectare field?
3. A farmer wants to irrigate 2.1ha (210m long and 100m wide ) of sugarcane crop to a depth of 7.5cm
with a sprinkler system applying water at the rate of 1.5cm/hour. Two laterals each 100m long and
spaced 15m interval are in use. Ten sprinklers are fitted on each lateral at intervals of 10m each. Two
hours are required to move the laterals each time. Determine the capacity of the sprinkler system and
the time required to irrigate the area. Assume the layout of the mainline is along the length of the field
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Maximum number of laterals operating simultaneously
• To determine the total discharge and pressure head on sub-mains and mains we need to
know the total number of laterals that will operate simultaneously.
• For each plot the number of laterals operating together or in the same day is to be
determined when designing the sprinkler system.
• For the determination of the minimum number of laterals required one has to know the
following:
• Ns = the number of settings of the laterals along the sub main,
• NWR = net water requirement (mm),
• GWR = gross water requirement (mm),
• Cu = daily consumptive use (mm/day),
• Ep = system efficiency
• I = application rate of the sprinkler (mm/hour),
• Ql = discharge of a lateral(liter/hour)
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Procedures to determine maximum number of laterals operating
simultaneously
NWR
• Compute irrigation interval using T =
Cu
• Select the design interval (TNmax ),TNmax = T − di, where di = the number of days for farm
operations in the field between applications,
NWR
• Calculate GWR using GWR = ,
Ea
GWR
• Calculate duration of application using t = ,
I
• Check t is smaller than the possible duration for the specific plot (t av. ). Select the smaller from t
andt av.
t
• Calculate number of daily applications using Nd = int. av. ,
𝑡
length of sub main
• Calculate number of lateral settings along the sub main using Ns =
lateral spacing
Ns
• Calculate number of laterals required daily using Nldaily =
TNmax
Nldaily
• Calculate the number of laterals operating simultaneously using Nlsimult. =
Nd
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Example 4
Installation is required for a level field in which three crops are to be grown for three
successive years. Data for soil and crops are given as follows.
Soil: Crop:
• Field capacity = 25% Crop type Root zone (m) Cu (mm/d) MAD (%)
• Permanent wilting point = 15% A 1.2 6 80
• Dry bulk density =1.2 g/cm 3
B 0.6 6 60
C 0.9 6.5 70
Efficiency of the system is 70 %. Adopt 12m spacing between laterals along the 360m sub-
main placed in the center of the field. The water is available for 18 hours per day. The selected
sprinkler has discharge (𝑞𝑠 ) = 1.7 m3/hr., Operating pressure (ℎ𝑠 ) = 20m and application rate (I)
= 11.8 mm/hr. Determine:
a) Maximum number of laterals required to operate the system,
b) Total number of lateral settings, settings per day,
c) Number of laterals that should operate simultaneously.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
• Sprinkler selection is the process of choosing sprinklers for the farm irrigation system.
• Sprinklers are normally selected on the basis of:
• Cost, With acceptable uniformity and
• Operating pressure requirements, and without runoff.
• Ability to provide (DDIR)
• In addition, sprinklers must have:
• Proper nozzle (trajectory) angle,
• Droplet size, For the crop, soil, and wind
conditions in which they are to
• Distance of throw, and
operate.
• Application pattern characteristics
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
Operating pressure requirement

Too high pressure Too low pressure Optimum pressure

Fig. 27: Effect of operating pressure on water distribution

Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
Distance of throw

The horizontal distance

between the position of the
sprinkler head and the farthest
point of the precipitation.
Usually, the precipitation rate
decreases the further the point
is from the sprinkler head.

Fig. 28: Schematic view of wetting diameter of a sprinkler

Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
Precipitation rate
• The average height of the collected water that
has fallen on the ground from the sprinklers
over a specified period of time, measured as
mm per hour.
• If the precipitation rate is higher than the
intake rate of the soil, runoff will occur,
particularly in heavy soils and uneven
surfaces.
• Therefore, the precipitation rate is an
important factor to consider when selecting the
type of sprinkler to use.
Fig. 29: Runoff due to high application rate
• Generally, small sprinklers have a slower
application rate, thereby lowering their ability
to cause runoff damage.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
Overlapping of the precipitation
• The precipitation rate from
individual sprinkler heads is
not uniform throughout the
wetting circle.
• To get a desirable water
distribution uniformity two
adjacent sprinklers should be
spaced such that there is some
overlap of the precipitation. Fig. 30: Overlapping of the precipitation
• As a general rule, the spacing
between the sprinklers is kept
between 50-60% of the
“wetting diameter.”
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
Effect of wind on water distribution
• Sprinkler water distribution
uniformity is greatly
influenced by the direction
of the wind.
• Hence, it is recommended
to operate the sprinklers
during periods of low wind.
Fig. 31: Effect of wind on water distribution
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
Sprinkler discharge capacity
• The sprinkler must have sufficient capacity to supply the DDIR plus wind drift and
evaporative losses that occur after water leaves the sprinkler and before it reaches plant and
soil surfaces.
• The required sprinkler discharge (capacity) can be estimated using:
K Da L S
Qs = ,
H−Tm Ea

• Where Q s = sprinkler capacity (l/min); Da = net depth to be applied (mm); L = spacing

(distance) between laterals (m); S = spacing (distance) between sprinklers on lateral (m); H
= time interval between the beginnings of successive irrigations of a given set (hour); Tm =
down time for moving set move systems and/or maintenance (hour); Ea = application
efficiency (percent); K = unit constant (K = 1.67 for Q s in l/min, Da in mm, and L and S in
m)
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
0.24 Pf D
• The interval, H, can be determined using: H ≤ ,
DDIR
• where Pf = percent of total field irrigated when the system is operating;
D = desired depth of irrigation (mm); DDIR = design daily irrigation requirement for D mm
of soil storage (mm/day).
• Once a value of H has been selected, the depth applied, Da, can be computed using:
H DDIR
Da =
0.24 Pf
Ll L Nl
• The term Pf can be calculated by: Pf = , where: Lt = length of lateral (m), Nl =
K Af
number of laterals operating simultaneously, Af = total field area (ha), K = unit constant (K
= 100 when 𝐿𝑙 and L are in m and Af is in ha).
• Pf equals 100 percent for continuous move sprinkler systems or when an entire solid system
is operating (i.e., all sprinklers are operating simultaneously).
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Pipeline design
Pressure variation
• In order to have high uniformities of application, the operating pressure needed for the
desired sprinkler performance should be provided.
• Factors which can cause pressure variation in a field are:
• Friction loss in pipes and fittings, and
• Differences in elevation.
• Friction loss causes the pressure to decrease in the downstream direction
• Changes in elevation can cause either an increase or decrease in pressure
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Pipeline design
• The difference in pressure between locations along a pipeline can be estimated using
Hd = Hu − k HLact ± ∆z
Where,
Hd and Hu = pressure at downstream and upstream position, respectively, kPa
HLact = energy loss in pipe between up and downstream positions, m
∆z = difference in elevation between up and down positions, m
K = unit constant, = 9.81 for Hd and Hu in kPa, HLac and ∆z in m
• The energy loss can be estimated using HL ac = F ∗ HLP + M1 ,
Where,
F = constant that depends on the number of outlets (sprinklers or laterals) removing water from
the pipe between the up and downstream location.
HLP = friction loss in a plain pipe between the up and downstream location (m, ft.)
M1 = minor losses through fittings (m, ft.)
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Pipeline design
• When the change in elevation
between the downstream and
upstream positions is uphill:
• Pressure at the d/s end of a
pipe is given by:
Hd = Hu − k HLact + ∆z
• When the change in elevation
between the downstream and
up positions is downhill:
• Pressure at the d/s end of a
pipe is given by:
Hd = Hu − k HLact − ∆z
Fig. 32: Pumping to pressurized system
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulic design of pipe network
• The purpose of pipeline and sprinkler system design is:
• To properly calculate frictional energy losses so as to move the design flow through the
system, by conserving energy at some points and by burning it off (through friction) at
other points.
• This is accomplished by a thorough understanding of:
• The water demand,
• A detailed survey of the local topography,
• A careful selection of the pipe and pump sizes and
• A strategic layout of the whole system.
• Pipeline design begins with the laterals, proceeds to the sub mains, if present, and ends with
mainlines.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Design of sprinkler lateral • Figure 33 shows the hydraulic grade line in
a lateral over a level surface.
• Sprinkler laterals have equally spaced
• It is assumed that the average operating
sprinklers along its length as if a pipe
pressure is located about 2/5th (for
with evenly spaced multiple outlets.
simplicity it can be assumed at the middle)
• The flow decreases as it advances along of the lateral downstream from the inlet and
the direction of flow and resulting the at this point the head loss is 3/4th of the total
decreased pressure or the head loss in head loss.
pipe-sections between successive outlets
gradually towards the downstream.
• Thus, the friction loss in a lateral pipe is
much less than the pipe of same length if
the total flow is carried to the entire
length of the pipe.

Fig. 33: HGL with and without outlets along the lateral
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a lateral
• The hydraulic behavior of a sprinkler
lateral is that of a pipe with evenly
spaced multiple outlets.
• It is characterized by decreasing Figure 34: Schematic of a lateral
discharges in the direction of the
flow, starting with Qo at the inlet of • At the inlet of the lateral, the discharge is Qo
the lateral and terminating with Qn at and the pressure head is Ho.
the last sprinkler.
• At the first sprinkler, i=1, the pressure head is
• The number of sprinklers along a H1 = Ho − Hf1 , where Hf1 is the loss of
lateral are from 1 (first) to n (last). pressure head along the first segment, from the
• The number of pipes (segments) start inlet until the first sprinkler.
from 1, pipe that ends with sprinkler
1, to n, last pipe that ends with
sprinkler n.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a lateral
• The discharge of the sprinkler is determined by Bernoulli’s equation:
V1i 2 V1o 2
H1i + = H1o + + 𝑒, where
2g 2g
H1i and H1o are the pressure heads at the inlet and outlet of the first sprinkler respectively;
V1i and V1o are the velocities at the inlet and outlet of the first sprinkler; and e is loss of
pressure head
• V1i is considerably smaller than V1o and for practical purposes can be neglected; also,
H1o = 0 (atmosphere), therefore: V1o = V = 2gH1i + e
• Since q = AV (where A is the cross sectional area of a nozzle) and since the above analysis
holds true also for every sprinkler i, therefore the discharge of the ith sprinkler is:
Qi = 𝑐𝑞 ∗ A ∗ 2gHi, where 𝑐𝑞 is a coefficient that expresses the pressure head losses at the
nozzle of the sprinkler
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a lateral
• The discharge at pipe 2, between the first and the second sprinklers is
Q2 = Q0 − Q1 and the pressure head at the second sprinkler is
H2 = H1 − Hf2 = H0 − Hf1 − Hf2
• The discharge of the second sprinkler is Q2 = 𝑐𝑞 ∗ A ∗ 2g ∗ H0 − Hf1 − Hf2
• The discharge of the ith sprinkler is Qi = 𝑐𝑞 ∗ A ∗ 2g ∗ H0 − Hfi
• Where Hfi = σij=1 Hfi and Hf = σnj=1 Hfj
• The pressure head distribution along a multioutlet lateral can be calculated step wisely by
the above equations.
• Another possibility to calculate the distribution of pressure heads along a lateral is by using
a method of J.E. Christiansen.
• The method calculates the head loss in lateral by assuming as the same discharge is flowing
through the lateral .
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a lateral
• The steps in calculating head loss in a lateral as proposed by Christiansen
are:
• Calculate the head loss in the lateral assuming the lateral pipe as plain pipe
using methods like: Hazen Williams equation, Darcy Weisbach equation
• Calculate the Christiansen F factor
• Calculate the actual head loss in the pipe considering the multiple outlets
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a sprinkler lateral
Head loss calculation in lateral pipe
• Select a suitable sprinkler or emitter with a required Hs, qs and sl from a
catalogue.
• The number of sprinklers (n) along the lateral is determined by (L/sl).
• The discharge rate at the lateral inlet is determined by (Qu = n x qs ).
• The lateral diameter (D) should comply with maximum head loss of 20%.
• The head loss along a lateral (Qu, q, D and L) is computed assuming the
lateral as plain pipe by:
• Hazen Williams equation,
• Darcy Weisbach equation.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a sprinkler lateral
Methods for determining head loss in lateral
Hazen – William’s equation
Q 1.852
KL C
Hf =
D4.87
hf = friction loss expressed as head, m
K = conversion constant = 1.22*1010
L = length of pipe, m
Q = flow rate, l/s
C = Hazen – William friction coefficient
D = Pipe diameter, mm
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a sprinkler lateral
Methods for determining head loss in lateral
Darcy–Weisbach Equation
L V2
Hf = f ∗ ∗
D 2g

hf = head loss due to friction, m

f = friction factor
L = length of pipe, m
D = Diameter of pipe, m
V2
= velocity head of flow, m
2g
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a sprinkler lateral
Calculation of the F factor
• The Christiansen friction factor, F, for the first sprinkler at distance Sl from
the mainline is given by:
1 1 m−1
F= + +
m+1 2N 6N2
N = Number of sprinklers along the lateral
m = exponent on velocity related term in friction head loss formula = 1.852,
for Hazen- William equation = 2.0, for Darcy Weisbach equation
Sl
• If the first sprinkler is at distance from the main line then,
2
2N 1 m−1
F= +
2N−1 m+1 6N2
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a sprinkler lateral
Lateral inlet pressure
• The pressure head at the lateral inlet (Hn) is
3 3
determined by: Hn = Ha + Hf ± He + Hr
4 4
Where,
Ha = Average pressure on the sprinkler, m
Hf = Head loss due to friction in lateral pipe, m
Hn = Pressure required at the main to operate, m
He = Maximum difference in elevation between the
first and last sprinkler on a lateral pipe, m
Hr = The riser height, m
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Hydraulics of a sprinkler lateral
• From the above analysis one can see that the pressure heads are not equal for
all the sprinklers.
• It means that, without regulators, the discharges of the sprinklers will also be
uneven.
• Moreover, the longer the lateral, the larger the differences in pressure heads
and consequently in discharges.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
20 percent rule
• In designing a lateral, common practice requires limiting the discharge
differences between the sprinklers in order to obtain satisfactory uniformity
and efficiency of water applications.
• The most common rule, as a criterion for irrigation planning regarding the
differences in discharges, is the so called “20 % rule”
• The discharge variation along a lateral (comprising both head loss and
elevation difference) must be limited to 10% of the discharge of the selected
sprinkler and consequently, the variation in pressure heads (comprising both
head loss due to friction and topography) be limited to 20%.
• If the pressure head variation exceeds 20% of Hs, the diameter of lateral is to
be increased, the length of the lateral is o be shortened or both.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Steps for determining size of lateral
1) Calculate the maximum allowable head loss due to friction using:
θ Ha −He
HL allowable = where He increase in elevation in direction of water flow,
,
l
m
2) Calculate head loss/m length of pipe assuming the pipe as plain using
Q 1.852
HLp K C
=
L D4.87
3) Calculate the F factor using:
1 1 𝑚−1 2𝑁 1 𝑚−1
F= + + , or F = +
𝑚+1 2𝑁 6𝑁2 2𝑁−1 𝑚+1 6𝑁2
HLac HLp
4) Calculate the actual head loss in the pipe using: = ∗F
L L
5) Determine the minimum diameter of pipe which satisfies the 20% rule
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Combination of diameters
• Procedure to calculate ∆Ht :
• The use of a combination of laterals
1. Assume d1 along L1 and d2 along L2
provides saving in cost of pipes.
2. Compute the head loss along the entire
• The total head losses in such a lateral
lateral assuming d=d1 and given Q
may be determined by:
3. Compute the head loss in d2 mm section
Hft = Hfd1 l − Hfd1l2 + Hfd2l2 of the lateral assuming d = d1. Then
subtract the result from that obtained in
(2)
4. Compute the head loss in the d2 mm
section of the lateral. Then add the result
to that obtained in (3). The value
obtained is the head loss, Hf, along the
lateral.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Design of a sub main
• The sub main has to convey the required discharge at desired pressure to all the laterals in it.
• The selection should be based on the consideration of cost of the pipes and cost of energy to
operate the system.
• The length of the sub mains is usually considerable and the discharge gradually reduces
towards the downstream.
• Therefore, there is scope for selection of low diameter pipes from the upstream to downstream
of the sub main.
• A step-by-step calculation is followed to arrive at the most economic diameters of the sub
mains.
Design of a manifold
• The manifold is the sub-main in which all the laterals in it operates simultaneously.
• Therefore, its design is similar to a lateral.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Example 5
A level field of 144mx144m is to be designed by solid-set sprinkler irrigation system. The
manifold runs through the center of the field. The laterals are placed on both sides at 12m on
the manifold and the sprinklers are also at 12m intervals on the laterals. The laterals operate
simultaneously to irrigate the entire field. The selected sprinkler operates at pressure head of
20m at the rate of 500l/h. The local head loss in both the laterals and manifolds are 10 percent.
The recommended maximum pressure variation is 20 percent. Design the pipe diameters
(PVC).
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Design of a main line
• Main pipelines are responsible to convey the water to the various points in the
irrigated fields.
• If more numbers of sub mains are operated simultaneously at the same time (a case
for the large field) the procedure described for the design of the lateral may be used.
• However, when a single sub main is operated, the size of sub main and main pipe
line is selected such that the annual operating cost and initial cost of the sub main
line and main line should be low.
• Normally friction loss of 3m for small sprinkler system and 12 m for large sprinkler
systems are used in design of main pipe.
• The selection of diameter starts from the downstream and gradually approaches to
the upstream water source.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Pressure required at mainline entrance to laterals/sub mains
• Adequate pressure must be available at mainline take-out for the lateral to
provide the correct operating pressure for the selected nozzle.
• The pressure required must also account for elevation changes along the lateral
and the height of the connecting riser between the lateral line and the sprinkler
nozzle.
• The pressure requirement at the mainline entrance to the lateral is calculated by
the following equation:
Hm = Ha + 0.75 Hf ± He + Hr ∗ 9.807
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Critical pressure requirement on mainline
• The pressure required at any point of interest on the mainline is given by:
Hi = Hn + Hf−in + He−in + Hv−in
Hi = pressure head required at point i, m
Hn = Pressure head required at point n, m
Hf−in = Friction head loss from point i to n , m
He−in = increase in elevation head from point i to n , m
Hv−in = increase in velocity head from point i to n , m
• Pressure calculations are started at the end of the line and worked back towards the pump.
• The critical point on the mainline is the point with the highest pressure requirement taking in to
account all pressure losses starting from the pump.
• The pump must deliver adequate head at the critical point for the proper operation of the
system.
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Pumping requirements
• The pressure head required at the pump is given by:
Vi 2
TDHi = Hi + Hf−pi + He−pi + Hf−s + , where,
2g
TDHi = Total dynamic head required for point i, m
Hf−pi = Friction head loss from pump to point i , m
He−pi = increase in elevation from source to point i, m
Hf−s = friction head loss on suction side of pump , m
• The horsepower requirement of the pump is given by:
Qt ∗TDH
hp = , where,
75∗np

Q t = total discharge, L/sec,

TDH = total dynamic head, m,
np = efficiency of the pump (fraction)
Design of set-move sprinkler system
Example 6
A distribution system is to be designed for a sprinkler system on which five laterals will be
operated simultaneously. Each lateral is to have 30 nozzles with 0.360 L/s discharge per nozzle.
The required pressure on the mainline at the inlet to each lateral is 393 kPa. The elevation of
each point on the line and distance between points are given in the following table.
Point Elevation Distance between The mainline is made of 20.32 cm inside
(m) points(m) diameter aluminum pipe with a Hazen-Williams
C factor of 144. The friction loss and elevation
Pump 48.41
head from the water surface to the centerline of
A 47.55 36.58
the pump is +0.333m. Laterals are to operate on
B 48.46 18.29
points A through E simultaneously. Determine
C 48.77 18.29 the total dynamic head requirement of the
D 47.85 18.29 pump.
E 47.24 18.29
Design of traveler sprinkler system
• A typical traveling sprinkler system consists of the following major components:
• Pumping plant
• Mainline
• Flexible hose
• Traveler unit
• Gun sprinkler
• The design procedure for traveler sprinkler systems is similar to the one used for set-move
sprinkler system.
• The steps in traveler system design are:
• Layout of towpaths, sub mains, and mainlines,
• Sprinklers selection,
• Developing specifications for various components of the systems.
Design of traveler sprinkler system
System layout
Water source and pumping plant location
• Water source and pumping plant should be located to minimize pipe and pumping costs.
• Wells should be located as close to the center of the irrigated area as possible.
• When water is obtained from lakes and streams, pumping plants should be located at a
central point for delivery to all points of the design area.
Towpaths
• Towpaths should be laid across land slopes or along field contours and, if possible, in the
same direction as crop rows.
• When traveler systems are to operate for extended periods of time in 2.2 m/sec (about 5
mph) or more winds, towpaths should be perpendicular to the prevailing wind direction.
Design of traveler sprinkler system
System layout
Mainlines and sub mains
• Sub mains or a mainline should bisect
towpaths to minimize hose length whenever
possible.
• Sub mains and mainlines that feed traveler
hoses should be laid up and down prominent
land slopes to allow towpaths to be across the
slope.
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Sprinkler Selection
• Sprinkler characteristics that need to be considered in the design of traveler system are:
• Nozzle size and type
• Operating pressure
• Jet trajectory
• Sprinkler body design
• The operating conditions that enter in to the selection process are:
• Soil infiltration characteristics
• Desired depth and frequency of irrigation
• Towpath length
• Towpath spacing
• Wind conditions
• Crop characteristics
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Sprinkler Selection
Sprinkler variables
• Gun sprinklers used on most travelers have trajectory angles ranging between 18 and 32°.
• Higher trajectory angles increase the altitude of the jet, which allows the stream to exhaust
its horizontal velocity before the water droplets reach the soil surface.
• The higher angles give maximum coverage in low winds and droplet impact is minimized.
• Low angles give more uniform coverage in winds above 16km/hour(10mph), but drop
impact can be quite severe, especially when the operating pressures are low, and may be
detrimental to all but the sturdiest crops and coarsest soils.
• For average conditions, trajectories between 23 and 25° are satisfactory.
• These midrange trajectories give reasonable uniformity in moderate winds, produce gentle
enough drop impacts for use on most crops and soils and are suitable for operation on
varying slope conditions where there will be some riser tilting.
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Sprinkler Selection
Nozzles
• The majority of gun sprinklers used on travelers can be fitted with either tapered or orifice
ring type nozzles.
• The tapered nozzles normally produce a compact water jet that is less susceptible to wind
distortion than the more diffuse stream from an orifice nozzle.
• Therefore, for a given discharge, the tapered nozzles will also provide a greater distance of
throw, which may permit wider spacing between towpaths and lower application rates
• However, orifice nozzles produce better stream breakup at lower operating pressures. This in
turn produces smaller drops, which is an important factor on delicate crops and unstable
soils. Further more, orifice nozzles are relatively inexpensive, and thus offer considerable
discharge flexibility at low cost.
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Sprinkler Selection
Wetted Sector
• Both full circle and part circle gun sprinklers are available in all nozzle types and size
ranges.
• Some traveling sprinklers need to be operated with part circle coverage to give more
uniform water distribution.
• Another important reason for part circle operation is to leave a dry path for vehicle travel.
However, the use of part circle sprinklers increase the application rate.
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Sprinkler Selection
• Gun-type sprinklers that operate at pressures in excess of 500 kPa and having
capacities between 380 and 3800 l/min are used with traveler sprinkler systems.
• Sprinkler characteristics are determined using the following equations:
1.67 Da L S
• Qs = ,
H−Tm Ea

• S ≤ KsD
0.24 Pf D
• H≤
DDIR
H DDIR
• Da =
0.24 Pf
Ll L N
• Pf = where Ll is the length of the longest towpath, L is the spacing
100 Af
between adjacent towpaths, and N is the number of travelers.
• L ≤ KlD
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Sprinkler selection
• Spacing L is computed using L ≤ K l WD with approximate values of WD from Table 6 (handout) and
Kl values from Table below.
• Spacing L is adjusted so that there are an integer number of towpaths.
• When more than one traveler is used, the number of towpaths must be an integer multiple of the
number of traveler units.
• The maximum set-length should be 23 h for one set per day systems and 11 h for two sets per day
systems.

Table: Recommended values of Kl for big gun type sprinklers

Wind speed
m/s mph Kl
0 0 0.80
<2.2 <5 0.70 – 0.75
2.2 to 4.5 5 to 10 0.60 – 0.65
< 4.5 710 0.5 to 0.55
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Towpath spacing
• The application uniformity of traveling sprinklers is affected by:
• Wind velocity and direction
• Jet trajectory
• Nozzle type and wetted sector angle
• Sprinkler profile characteristics and overlap
• Variations in operating pressure and travel speed
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Application rates
• The application rate of a traveler sprinkler at which water must infiltrate in to the
soil to eliminate runoff is useful to know.
• For a full or part circle gun sprinkler spaced to give sufficient overlap between
towpaths, this rate is approximately:
K Qs
A=
WD 2 θ

A = application rate (mm/hour)

Q s = sprinkler discharge (l/min)
WD = wetted diameter (m)
θ = arc setting (i.e., portion of circle receiving water) (degrees)
K = unit constant (K = 33953 when A is in mm/hour, WD is in m, and Q s is in l/min).
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Travel speed
• The traveler unit must move along a towpath at constant speed for uniform water
distribution over the irrigated area.
• The traveler speed needed to apply a given depth of water is computed using:
K QS
ST = for Da ≤ Dm
L Da

Where,
ST = required traveler speed (m/min)
Q S = sprinkler discharge (l/min)
L = towpath spacing (m)
Da = depth of application (mm), Da ≤ Dm
Dm = amount that can be applied without runoff;
K = unit constant (1.0 for ST in m/min, Q S in l/min, L in m and Da mm)
Design of traveler sprinkler system
Example 7
Determine the sprinkler capacity for a single unit traveler system to irrigate 48 ha
field that is 600 m wide. The readily available water holding capacity of the soil
is 50 mm and the design daily irrigation requirement is 7 mm/day. The prevailing
wind speed and direction are respectively 2m/s and normal to the 600 m long side
of the field. Use a travel path length of 600 m. Determine the average application
rate for arc setting of 270 degrees. Determine the travel speed for the traveler
system. Assume that Da < Dm. Assume efficiency of the system as 70%.
Design of center-pivot systems
• A center pivot irrigation system is a movable pipe structure that rotates around
a central pivot point connected to a water supply.
• Center pivot system design involves:
• Locating individual center pivot units,
• Laying out mainlines and sub mains,
• Specifying lateral diameters,
• Selecting sprinklers, and
• Recommending speeds of rotation for each unit.
• Sizing of sub mains and mainlines
Design of center-pivot systems
System layout
• The lateral rotates continuously in
either direction around the field.
• Water is normally conveyed from the
water source to the pivot point in an
underground pipe.
• There should not be any obstruction in
the area to be irrigated
• To avoid area left unirrigated providing
end gun sprinkler is important.

Fig. 35: Center pivot system layout

Design of center-pivot systems
Specifying diameter of lateral
• Pipe diameters for center-pivot laterals usually range between 100 and 250 mm, with 168
mm being the most common size.
• The size of a particular center pivot lateral is most often chosen on the basis of economics.
• The pressure required to operate a center pivot is computed using:
Pd = Pu − k hl ± ∆z
Where,
Pd and Pu = pressure at down and upstream position, respectively, kPa
hl = energy loss in pipe between up and downstream positions, m
∆z = difference in elevation between up and down positions, m
K = unit constant (K= 9.81 for Pd and Pu in kPa, hl and ∆z in m)
K = 0.43 for Pd and Pu in psi and hl and ∆z in ft.
Design of center-pivot systems
System capacity
• System discharge is estimated using:
694.4 A DDIR
Qcp =
Ea

where,
Qcp = system discharge, l/min
A = area irrigated, ha
Ea = application efficiency, percent
DDIR = design daily irrigation requirement, mm/day
Design of center-pivot systems
Sprinkler selection
• The discharge at each sprinkler is given by:
K Da L S
Qs =
H−Tm Ea
0.24 Pf D𝑎
H≤ ,
DDIR
Pf = 100%,
Re
L = 2πr, or L = 2π R + if it is for end gun sprinkler
2
• S = half the distance to the next upstream sprinkler plus half the distance to the next
downstream sprinkler.
• For the up and downstream most sprinklers, the sprinkler's effective radius of coverage is
used in lieu of half the distance of the upstream or downstream sprinkler, respectively.
• S = 40 percent of the end gun's wetted diameter, for end gun sprinkler
Design of center-pivot systems
Speed of center-pivot rotation
• The speed at which a center-pivot lateral rotates
around the field determines the depth of water
application:
• High speeds of rotation increase machine wear,
while slow speeds may result in runoff.
• The maximum hours per revolution of center pivot
to prevent runoff is the lesser of:
24 Dm 0.24 Pf D𝑎
Sr ≤ and H ≤
DDIR DDIR
Where,
Sr = speed of rotation (hour/revolution),
Figure 36: Maximum depth of water that can be
Dm = amount that can be applied per irrigation applied with center-pivot and linear-move
without runoff (mm/revolution) , sprinkler systems per irrigation for soil
DDIR = design daily irrigation requirement conservation service (SCS) intake families 0.1,
(mm/day). 0.3, 0.5, and 1.0.
Design of center-pivot systems
Application rate
• The peak application rate can be computed using:
60 Qcp
Ap =
R Re

Where,
Ap = peak application rate (mm/h),
Qcp = system discharge (l/min),
R = distance from pivot to the downstream most sprinkler (m);
Re = effective radius of coverage of downstream most sprinkler (m);
Design of center-pivot systems
Center pivot pipeline design
• Minimizing center pivot pipe diameter reduces pipe and structure cost because the structure
must carry the weight of the pipe.
• However, reducing pipe size increases pressure loss in the pipeline and thus increases the
pressure requirement of the pump (increases energy cost).
• Center pivot pressure loss can be calculated if the entire pipeline has a single diameter, then
the Christensen factor (F) for multi-outlet pipelines can be used.
• The Christensen factor for center pivots is 0.54.
Hact = HLP ∗ F
Where,
Hact = actual pressure loss in the multi-outlet pipeline, m
HLp = pressure loss in a pipeline with no outlets with inlet flow rate, m
F = Christiansen’s F factor.
Design of center-pivot systems
Example 8
Determine the discharge and operating pressure of sprinklers along a center pivot lateral. The
5cm diameter steel lateral is 95 m long and has 10 sprinklers spaced 10 m apart. The first
sprinkler is located 5 m downstream of the pivot. The design daily irrigation requirement is
7mm and the readily available water holding capacity of the soil is 75mm. The desired
operating pressure at the last sprinkler is 350kPa. Determine the maximum number of hours per
revolution at which the center pivot system can be operated on a 0.5 SCS intake family soil
with no surface storage. The effective wetted radius of the downstream most sprinkler is 5m. A
gun sprinkler is mounted at the downstream end of the center pivot system. Determine the
sprinkler capacity required to irrigate an additional 40m of field. Determine the minimum arc
setting for the sprinkler.
Design of linear move systems
• Design of linear move systems involves:
• Field layout,
• Lateral pipe diameter selection,
• Sprinkler selection,
• Determining the speed of travel, and
• Developing mainline or supply canal specifications.
Design of linear move systems
System Layout
• Linear-move systems obtain water from:
• Pipelines or
• Open channels constructed through the center or
along the edge of the field.
• Center-fed systems normally require less energy per
unit of water applied, since flow is split to each side of
the system.
• End-fed units, however, leave the field unobstructed by
a supply canal, surface pipe, or risers from an
underground pipeline.

Fig. 37: Linear move system layout

Design of linear move systems
Sprinkler selection
• Since outlets are evenly spaced along most linear-move systems, the discharge
requirements of all sprinklers (except part-circle end sprinklers) are the same.
• The discharge in the sprinkler can be determined using the following
equations:
K Da L S
Qs =
H−Tm Ea

Where L is the distance the moving lateral system covers "wet" per irrigation.
0.24 Pf Da
H≤ , Pf = 100%
DDIR
H DDIR
Da =
0.24 Pf
Design of linear move systems
Travel speed
• The application depth is determined by the speed at which the system moves across the
field.
• The depth of application is increased by reducing the travel speed.
• The travel speed equals the length of the field divided by the time required for the system
to complete an irrigation.
60 Qs
• The peak application rate is given by Ap =
S We

Where,
Ap = peak application rate (mm/hour),
Q s = design discharge of sprinklers (l/min),
S = outlet spacing (m),
We = effective width of water pattern, (m),
Design of linear move systems
Example 9
Determine the required capacity for full circle low pressure spray sprinklers
mounted on the top of a 400 m long linear move system. The readily available
water holding capacity of the soil is 90 mm and the design daily irrigation
requirement is 8mm. The length of the field is 1250m. Determine the maximum
travel time for a 0.5 SCS intake family soil (Dm =18mm). The wetted diameter of
the sprinklers is 12 m. Assume efficiency of the system as 75%
Cost estimation of sprinkler irrigation system
• After the complete design of the system, an estimate of cost is required. Suggested items are:
• Well
• Pump house
• Power,
(a) Electrical installation, transmission line, transformer, motor, switches, etc.,
(b) Engine.
• Pump unit including foot valve, non-return valve, suction and discharge pipes
• Main line and sub mains
• Lateral lines
• Sprinklers and risers
• Special equipment, if any,
• Installation charges
• Value of farm labor and equipment
• Other costs
Cost estimation of sprinkler irrigation system
• In considering the economics of sprinkler irrigation, all costs and benefits should be included.
• Initial costs are important because the purchaser must finance this usually heavy capital
investment. However, annual costs per hectare compared to annual returns per hectare are the
best measure of the economics of an irrigation system.
• The annual cost per hectare may be estimated from the cost of the various components
including the cost of equipment, labor, energy, depreciation and interest.
• When considering the returns to be expected from a new irrigation system, credit should be
shown for any savings resulting from:
• Increased yield,
• Less land out of production,
• Reduction in land preparation, tillage, and harvesting costs,
• Saving in labor, repair and maintenance, and operating costs, and ,
• Saving in water and power costs.
Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
Interpretation of design layout
• Design layout should be readable and self-explanatory so as field technicians may be able
to install the system properly and accurately as per layout.
• For this, the technician must thoroughly check/study the layout and the legends on it and
locate the different main and sub main pipes on the layout.
• If the technician is unable to understand the layout, he, must then consult the site/design
engineer to clarify the doubts in his mind.
• Subsequently, it should be checked that the physical situation on site are in accordance
with that mentioned in the design layout.
• The installation of the system must be carried out strictly adhering to the design layout.
Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
Receiving, unloading and handling guide
• Pipes and fittings are delivered to a project site in rolls or pieces depending on the type of
product.
• When a load of pipes and fittings arrives at the site, it is the responsibility of the engineer to
check it thoroughly:
• If possible, it is required to inspect each piece for damage.
• It is quite necessary to check quantities against the delivering list.
• Note missing or damaged items on bill of loading; set aside any damaged items and
notify the supplier.
Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
Receiving, unloading and handling guide(cont’d)
• In order to avoid any damage to pipes and fittings, the person in charge of the site must
adhere to the following recommendations:
• The storage surface must be flat, stable, and free of stones and debris.
• Unload the truck, being careful to avoid any movement, which could cause injury to the
personnel or damage to the product and make note if any missing products in the
delivery lot.
• Unload layer by layer, ensuring they do not fall to the ground.
• Do not discard damaged materials; rather identify them carefully for later inspection and
notify to the supplier on time.
• Do not return damaged product before the authorization of the supplier.
Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
Storage of received materials
• Pipes and fittings delivered in rolls or pieces must be stored appropriately as described
below:
• Deposit the products on a clear, flat surface, and far away from any source of fire
hazard.
• Specially fittings must be stored inside shelter and take care not to be lost.
• The maximum pipe storage height is preferable not to exceed 1.5m.
• Use chocks to prevent the pile of pipes from falling down which could result in damage
to the pipes, or worse still, cause injury to a person.
• If the pipes are stockpiled along the trench, they should be as close as possible to the
trench, on the opposite side from the backfill, to minimize loading, unloading and
transportation.
Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
Installation of main and sub mains
• For installation of main and sub main pipes:
• First make sure that the pipes, fittings and valves are free from any defects impairing
strength and durability and be of the best commercial quality for the purposes specified.
• Further, all dust, dirt and foreign matter must be removed from the pipe.
• All pipes, valves and pipe fittings shall conform to the relevant standards.
Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
Installation of main and sub mains (cont’d)
• For buried mainline and sub mains, to protect them from farming operations and traffic
hazards, the following guide may be used in their installation:
• During trench excavation, Proper layout, demarcation and pegging that guides the
excavation line has to be carried out before commencing excavation works.
• The width of the trench varies based on pipe size, soil type and other site-specific
conditions.
• The pipes should be buried at depth of 350mm-400mm below the deepest recorded
penetration of plough depth. Therefore, the commonly used depth of excavation is
500mm plus the pipe outside diameter.
• After trenches are excavated, the easiest way to install the pipe is to start at the water
source and work out to the valves, and then continue to the end of each lateral.
• For laying the pipes, first granular bedding of sand for pipes shall be placed by spreading
and compacting granular bedding material over the complete width of the pipe trench.
Installation of sprinkler irrigation system
Installation of laterals, sprinklers and other fittings
• After installation of main and sub main pipes, the lateral pipes are installed as per the design
and arrangement of shifts of laterals
• The laterals are HDPE/aluminum pipes which should be carefully connected to the sub
main pipes at riser points.
• The inlet end of the laterals is connected to the sub main with appropriate connectors but the
other end of the laterals shall be closed by end plugs.
• The lateral pipes are connected to each other to meet the field length by quick couplers.
• It is important to make sure that the laterals are aligned and the couplers are properly fixed
to avoid unnecessary stress on the pipes and leakage.
• At the couplings, risers are connected on the other end of which sprinkler heads are fixed.
• If the risers are longer than 60cm, they may need tripod to keep them vertical, which
otherwise tilted due to the force of water coming out through sprinkler nozzles.
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Water distribution uniformity
• The following is a brief summary of water distribution testing
procedure for sprinkler irrigation:
• A 4 X 4 grid (16 sprinklers) is set up according to the planned
layout - spacing between sprinklers in the same row and spacing
between laterals.
• The center area is selected and a grid pattern of rain gauges or
catch cans is set up, where the distance between them is:
• 1 meter or less on both axes for sprinklers (flow rate ≥ 200 l/h)
• ½ meter or less on both axes for micro-sprinklers (flow rate <
Fig. 37: Water distribution test
200 l/h)
survey
• The system is operated for 1 hour under normal operating conditions.
• The level of the water collected in each gauge or can is measured and
the results (in mm) are noted as a list, from the highest to the lowest.
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Distribution uniformity
• There are 3 methods for calculating distribution uniformity:
• Christiansen Coefficient of Uniformity (%CU) - known to produce the most flattering
results.
• Distribution Uniformity (%DU) - known to be more rigorous than %CU
• Scheduling Coefficient (SC) - known to be the most rigorous method of all
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Christiansen Coefficient Uniformity (%CU)
• The %CU is a measurement of uniformity, expressed as the average rate (%) of deviation
from the overall average application.
• %CU can be estimated using the following equation:
σ di
%CU = 1 − ∗ 100
nതx
Where, di = 𝑋𝑖 − 𝑋,ത
xത = mean depth/volume amount caught/infiltrated and
n = no of sample
• A perfectly uniform application is represented by a CU of 100%.
• Lower uniformity applications are represented by lower percentages.
Limitations of the %CU method:
• Due to the statistical nature calculation of the %CU method, it does not account for
individual spots that receive no water at all.
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Calculating %CU
• The records of the levels of water previously collected in each gauge or can (mm) are used [a].
• All the numbers in column [a] are summed up.
• The sum is divided by the number of gauges or cans placed in the field. This provides the average net
application of the surveyed area [b].
• The average net application of the surveyed area [b] is subtracted from the amount of water collected
in each gauge or can (mm) [a]. Each result, whether lower or higher than the average net application,
is recorded as a positive number in column [c].
• All application deviations [c] are summed up.
• The sum is divided by the number of gauges/cans placed in the field. This provides the average
deviation from the average net application of the surveyed area [d].
• The average deviation from the average net application [d] is divided by the average net application
of the surveyed area [b] and the result is subtracted from 1. This provides the CU of the surveyed
area as a percentage (%) [e].
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Calculating %CU
*Application deviations are always
recorded as positive numbers,
whether the result is lower or higher
than the average net application
[AVG].
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Distribution Uniformity (%DU)
• The %DU is a measurement of uniformity, based on comparison of the driest 25% of the surveyed
area with the overall average net application, as a percentage.
• %DU can be computed using the following equation:
ഥ LQ
X
(%DU) = 100 ഥ
X
Where,
ഥ
XLQ = low-quarter depth/volume amount caught/infiltrated; ഥ
X = average amount depth/volume
caught/infiltrated.
• A perfectly uniform application is represented by a DU of 100%.
• A less uniform application is represented by a lower percentage:
Advantage of the %DU method:
• The measurement of %DU takes the driest results into account. Therefore it is better than %CU, as it
compares the area that receives the least water with the average application of the entire area.
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Calculating %DU
• The records of the levels of water previously collected in each gauge or can (mm) are used
[a].
• All the numbers in column [a] are summed up.
• The sum is divided by the number of gauges or cans placed in the field. This provides the
average net application of the entire surveyed area [b].
• The lowest 25% of the numbers in the column are summed up.
• The sum of the lowest 25% of the numbers in the column is divided by 25% of the number
of gauges or cans placed in the field. This provides the average net application of the lowest
25% of the numbers representing the surveyed area [c].
• The average net application of the lowest 25% of the numbers is divided by the average net
application of the entire surveyed area. This provides the DU of the surveyed area as a
percentage (%) [d].
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Calculating %DU
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Scheduling Coefficient (SC)
• The Scheduling Coefficient is a run-time multiplier. It is the amount of time one needs to
over-irrigate to achieve the average application rate of the entire area in the driest part of the
irrigated area.
• SC = overall average net application / average net application in the driest 5% of the
irrigated area
• The SC method is applicable only for testing purposes, in order to validate the %CU and
%DU methods and is not recommended for irrigation planning.
• A perfectly uniform application is represented by an SC of 1.0.
• A less uniform application is represented by a higher SC value:
Advantage of the SC method:
• SC measurement takes into account the driest area (the part that receives the least water)
while ensuring that the entire area is irrigated with at least the minimum required quantity,
according to the crop value.
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Calculating SC
• The records of the levels of water previously collected in each gauge or can (mm) are used
[a].
• All the numbers in column [a] are summed up.
• The lowest 5% of the numbers in column [a] are summed up [only 1 number in this
example].
• The sum of all the numbers in the column [a] is divided by the number of gauges or cans
placed in the field. This provides the average net application of the entire surveyed area [b].
• The sum of the lowest 5% of the numbers in column [a] is divided by 5% of the number of
gauges or cans placed in the field. This provides the average net application of the 5%
lowest numbers in the surveyed area [c]
• The sum of all the numbers in column [a] is divided by the sum of the lowest 5% of the
numbers in column [a]. This provides the SC value [d].
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Calculating SC
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Adequacy of application
• Adequacy of irrigation is the percent (farm)
receiving the desired amount of irrigation
water or more.
• It is evaluated using a cumulative frequency
distribution (Figure 4).
Steps to determine adequacy of application
• Arrange the depths in descending order,
• Compute percent of the field represented by
each depth,
• Compute cumulative area for each depth, Fig. 38: Cumulative frequency distribution
• Plot cumulative area versus depth,
• Determine adequacy from the plot
Performance measures for sprinkler irrigation
Example 10
Determine the Christiansen’s uniformity coefficient, DU, SC and adequacy of irrigation from
the following data obtained from a field test on a square plot bounded by four sprinklers.
* 8.9 7.6 6.6 *
8.1 7.6 9.9 10.2 8.3
8.9 9.1 9.1 9.4 8.9
9.4 7.9 9.1 8.6 9.1
* 7.9 6.6 6.8 *
Note:* indicates sprinkler positions and take net irrigation requirement = 8.25cm
Operation of sprinkler irrigation systems
• To realize the full benefit of the sprinkler irrigation system, it must be operated according
to design and properly maintained throughout the irrigation season.
• Operation of sprinkler system according to schedule facilitates:
• Optimal utilization of the system,
• Efficient water use and
• Energy saving.
• To realize the full benefit of the sprinkler irrigation system, the following special operating
techniques should be applied.
• Alternating between day and night on successive irrigation cycles to improve
distribution uniformity.
• Using pressure regulators to control low uniformity of water application due to pressure
differences within a sprinkler system.
Operation of sprinkler irrigation systems
When and how long to irrigate
• The application of the exact amount of water required by the crops at the right time is the
main achievement of the irrigation installation.
• Farmers shall strictly follow the main elements of irrigation programming, such as:
• Water discharge and rate,
• Operating hours, For equity of water allocation as well as to achieve
• Irrigation frequency, high water use efficiency.
• Required pressure.
• Good operation includes matching the set time (or rotation time with a center pivot) with the
applied water depth and application rate to maximize the fraction of water stored in the root
zone.
Operation of sprinkler irrigation systems
Starting and stopping the system
• Starting and shutting down the system needs to be done very carefully in order to prevent
surges and water hammer and to avoid air pockets in the pipelines.
• The opening and closing of the valves at the head of the system, the main and sub-main
pipelines, should always be done slowly.
• In starting the sprinkler system, the motor or engine is started with the valves closed.
• The pump must attain the pressure stated on type-plate or otherwise there is a fault in the
suction line.
• After the pump reaches the regulation pressure, the delivery valve is opened slowly.
• Similarly, the delivery valve is closed after stopping the power unit.
• The pipes and sprinkler-lines are shifted as required after stopping the power unit.
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation systems
• A lack of maintenance of an irrigation system usually results in a decreased performance
like the occurring of blockage in the irrigation system which results in a lower uniformity;
reduced flow rates and higher friction losses.
• Parts of the system subject to the most wear are:
• The rotating sprinkler heads,
• The couplers and
• The pipeline.
• General principles regarding the maintenance of the pumping set, pipes and
fittings and sprinkler heads are given below.
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation systems
Pipes and fittings
• The pipes and fittings require virtually no maintenance but attention must be given to the
following procedures:
• Occasionally clean any dirt or sand out of the groove in the coupler in which the rubber
sealing ring fits.
• Any accumulation of dirt or sand will affect the performance of the rubber sealing ring.
• Keep all nuts and bolts tight.
• Do not lay pipes on new damp concrete or on piles of fertilizer.
• Do not lay fertilizer sacks on the pipe.
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation systems
Sprinkler heads
• The sprinkler heads should be given the following attention:
• When moving the sprinkler lines, make sure that the sprinklers are not damaged or pushed into
the soil.
• Do not apply oil, grease or any lubricant to the sprinklers. They are water lubricated and using
oil, grease or any other lubricant may stop them from working.
• Sprinklers usually have a sealed bearing and at the bottom of the bearing there are washers.
Usually it is the washers that wear and not the more expensive metal parts.
• Check the washers for wear once a season or every six months - this is especially important
where water is sandy. Replace the washers if worn.
• After several season's operation the swing arm spring may need tightening. This is done by
pulling out the spring end at the top and re-bending it. This will increase the spring tension.
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation systems
Storage
• The following points are to be observed while storing the sprinkler equipment during the
off season:
• Remove the sprinklers and store in a cool, dry place.
• Remove the rubber sealing rings from the couplers and fittings and store them in a cool,
dark place.
• The pipes can be stored outdoors in which case they should be placed in racks with one
end higher than the other. Do not store pipes along with fertilizer.
• Disconnect the suction and delivery pipe-work from the pump and pour in a small
quantity of medium grade oil. Rotate the pump for a few minutes. Blank off the suction
and delivery branches. This will prevent the pump from rusting. Grease the shaft.
• Protect the electric motor from the ingress of dust, dampness and rodents.
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation system
Troubleshooting
Sprinklers do not turn
• Check pressure.
• Check that the nozzle is not blocked. Preferably unscrew the nozzle or use a small soft piece of wood
to clear the blockage. Do not use a piece of wire or metal as this may damage the nozzle.
• Check that the sprinkler bearing is quite free and smooth. During operation, the sprinkler can usually
be pushed down towards the riser pipes so that the water pressure flushes out the bearing. If the
bearing is still stiff dismantle and then clean it. Do not use oil, grease or any lubricant.
• Check the condition of washers at the bottom of the bearing and replace them if worn or damaged.
• Check that the swing arm moves freely and that the spoon which moves into the water stream is not
bent by comparing it with a sprinkler which is operating correctly. If it is bent then very carefully
bend it back into position.
• Adjust the swing arm spring tension. Usually it should not be necessary to pull up the spring by more
than about 6 mm.
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation system
Sprinkler head troubleshooting
Problem Possible causes Solution
Blocked heads • Overgrowth of vegetation • Trim back overgrown vegetation.
• Changes to landscape and not • Move the head with blocked
sprinkler system spray pattern to a better location.
• Poorly placed heads
Clogged nozzle Debris in the system • Wash out any debris in the filter or
getting stuck in the nozzle or the filter of the nozzle.
a spray head.
Tilted heads Over time, sprinkler heads settle and tilt • Remove sod with shovel- be careful
due to natural compaction of soil, foot to not hit lateral line.
traffic, and lawn maintenance. • Lift and straighten the head by
Sunken heads Sunken sprinkler heads settle due to packing soil under and around
natural compaction of soil. until it is level with and
perpendicular to the ground.
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation system
Troubleshooting
Leakage from coupler or fittings
• The sealing rings in the couplers and fittings are usually designed to drain the water from the
pipes when the pressure is turned off. This ensures that the pipes are automatically emptied
and ready to be moved.
• When the pump is first started and before the pressure has built up in the system the seals
may give a little leakage. With full pressure in the system the couplers and fittings will be
effectively leak-free. If, however, there is a leakage, check the following:
• There is no accumulation of dirt or sand in the groove in the coupler in which the sealing
ring fits. Clean out any dirt or sand and refit the sealing ring.
• The end of the pipe going inside the coupler is smooth, clean and not distorted.
• In the case of fittings such as bends, tees and reducers ensure that the fitting has been
properly connected into the coupler
Maintenance of sprinkler irrigation system
Troubleshooting for uPVC pipes
Problems Possible causes Solutions
Pipe splits Surge pressure exceeding the • Replace pipe with a higher class
pressure class of the pipe • Control pressure
Water hammer in the
Pipe bursts in a • Investigate air entrapment
system, usually induced
herringbone fracture in the system and install
by the rapid recolution of
along its entire length air relief valves
air in the system
Joint leaks – seal No lubrication during
• Use gel lubricant
pushed into the pipe jointing
Joint leaks-seal Air in the line trying to • Purge the line at low pressure
extruded out of the pipe escape during commissioning
Small hole appears in the Foreign particles in the
• Repair hole or replace pipe
pipe wall raw material