PHILIPPINE NATIONAL

STANDARD PNS/BAFS/PAES 223:2017

ICS 65.060.35

Design of a Pressurized Irrigation System –

Part A: Sprinkler Irrigation

BUREAU OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES STANDARDS

BPI Compound Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City 1101 Philippines
Phone (632) 920-6131; (632) 455-2856; (632) 467-9039; Telefax (632) 455-2858
E-mail: [email protected]
DEPARTMENT OF Website: www.bafps.da.gov.ph
AGRICULTURE
PHILIPPINES
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL STANDARD PNS/BAFS/PAES 223:2017
Design of a Pressurized Irrigation System – Part A: Sprinkler Irrigation

Foreword

The formulation of this national standard was initiated by the Agricultural

Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AMTEC) under the project entitled
“Enhancement of Nutrient and Water Use Efficiency Through Standardization of
Engineering Support Systems for Precision Farming” funded by the Philippine
Council for Agriculture, Aquaculture and Forestry and Natural Resources
Research and Development - Department of Science and Technology (PCAARRD -
DOST).

As provided by the Republic Act 10601 also known as the Agricultural and
Fisheries Mechanization Law (AFMech Law of 2013), the Bureau of Agriculture
and Fisheries Standards (BAFS) is mandated to develop standard specifications
and test procedures for agricultural and fisheries machinery and equipment.
Consistent with its standards development process, BAFS has endorsed this
standard for the approval of the DA Secretary through the Bureau of Agricultural
and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE) and to the Bureau of Philippine Standards
(BPS) for appropriate numbering and inclusion to the Philippine National
Standard (PNS) repository.

This standard has been technically prepared in accordance with BPS Directives
Part 3:2003 – Rules for the Structure and Drafting of International Standards.

The word “shall” is used to indicate mandatory requirements to conform to the

standard.

The word “should” is used to indicate that among several possibilities one is
recommended as particularly suitable without mentioning or excluding others.

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PHILIPPINE NATIONAL STANDARD PNS/BAFS/PAES 223:2017
Design of a Pressurized Irrigation System – Part A: Sprinkler Irrigation

CONTENTS Page

1 Scope 1
2 References 1
3 Definitions 1
4 Components of a Sprinkler Irrigation System 5
5 General Design Criteria 6
6 Limitations 7
7 Types of Sprinkler Systems 7
8 Data Requirements 10
9 Preliminary Design Procedure 10
10 Final Design Procedure 12
11 Bibliography 21

ANNEXES

A Types of Sprinklers 22
B Recommended Materials for Mainlines, Submainlines and 25
Laterals
C Sample Design Computation 29

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PHILIPPINE NATIONAL STANDARD PNS/BAFS/PAES 223:2017

Design of a Pressurized Irrigation System – Part A: Sprinkler Irrigation

1 Scope

This standard provides minimum requirements, criteria and procedure for the
design of a periodic-move and a continuous-move sprinkler irrigation system.

2 References

The following normative documents contain provisions, which, through

reference in this text, constitute provisions of this National Standard:

PNS/BAFS/PAES 217:2017 Determination of Irrigation Water Requirements

3 Definitions

For the purpose of this standard, the following terms shall apply:

3.1
average pressure
average sprinkler pressure of a lateral

3.2
design pressure
pressure required to overcome the elevation difference between the water
source and the sprinkler nozzle, to counteract friction losses and to provide
adequate pressure at the nozzle for good water distribution

3.3
distribution uniformity
numerical value on the uniformity of application for agricultural irrigation
systems

3.4
irrigation period
time required to cover an area with one application of water

3.5
sprinkler irrigation
method of applying irrigation water similar to natural rainfall where water is
distributed through a system of pipes by pumping and then sprayed into the air
through sprinklers so that it breaks up into small water drops which fall to the
ground

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3.6
sprinkler spacing
distance between two sprinkler heads along the lateral (see Figure 1)

Figure 1. Sprinkler spacing and wetted diameter

SOURCE: FAO - Irrigation Manual Volume III – Module 8, 2001

3.7
wetted diameter
diameter of the circular area wetted by the sprinkler when operating at a given
pressure and no wind (See Figure 1)

4 Components of Sprinkler Irrigation System

Figure 2. A typical sprinkler irrigation system and its components

4.1 Pump Unit – delivers water from the source to the pipe system at an
adequate capacity

4.2 Filtration System – consists of screen openings considerably lower than

the nozzle diameter to prevent nozzles from clogging

2
4.3 Sprinklers – device of various nozzle sizes which sprays water over the
ground or crop. Different types of sprinklers are shown in Annex A.

4.4 Mainline and Submainlines – pipes which convey water from the pump
to the laterals

4.5 Laterals – deliver water from the mainlines or submainlines to the

sprinklers

Materials recommended for use in mainlines, submainlines and laterals are

shown in Annex B.

5 General Design Criteria

5.1 Type of Crop – Sprinkler irrigation shall be used in crops and trees where
water can be sprayed over or under the crop canopy. Large sprinklers shall not
be used in delicate crops to avoid damage.

5.2 Slope – Sprinkler irrigation can be used in uniform or undulating slopes.

Lateral pipes shall always be laid out along the land contour whenever possible
in order to minimize the pressure changes at the sprinklers and provide uniform
irrigation.

5.3 Soil Type – Sprinkler irrigation may be used in almost any type of soil
except those which easily form a crust. It is best used in sandy soils with high
infiltration rates. The application rate shall always be less than the basic
infiltration rate of the soil. Infiltration rate may be determined using the method
described in Annex C of PAES 607:2016.

5.4 Irrigation Water – The irrigation water shall be free of suspended

sediments to avoid nozzle blockage.

5.5 Layout – The following layout configurations shall be considered:

5.5.1 Mainlines shall be laid up and downhill.

5.5.2 Laterals shall be laid across slope or nearly on the counter.

5.5.3 For multiple lateral operation, lateral pipe sizes shall be limited to not
more than two diameters.

5.5.4 Layout shall facilitate and minimize lateral movement during the season.

5.5.5 Differences in the number of sprinklers operating for the various setups
shall be held to a minimum

6.5.6 Layout shall be modified to apply different rates and amounts of water
where soils are greatly different in the design area.

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6 Limitations

6.1 Sprinkler irrigation requires high initial and operating costs compared to
surface irrigation systems.

6.2 Intermittent delivery of large flows and other forms of rate fluctuations
are not economical and thus require reservoirs.

6.3 Salinity and high concentrations of bicarbonates in irrigation water affect

the crops when used in overhead sprinklers.

6.4 Water of different quality causes corrosion to pipes commonly used in

sprinkler irrigation.

6.5 Sprinkler irrigation is not suitable for soils with an intake rate of less than
3 mm/hr.

6.6 Windy and excessively dry conditions result to low irrigation efficiencies.

6.7 Non-rectangular field shapes are inconvenient for design especially for
mechanized systems.

7 Types of Sprinkler Systems

7.1 Set System – operate with sprinklers set in a fixed position

7.1.1 Periodic-Move System – sprinklers that must be moved manually through

a series of positions during the course of irrigation

7.1.1.1 Hand-Move System – composed of portable or buried pipe with

valve outlets at intervals for attaching the portable laterals.
 Portable
 Semi-portable
 Drag-hose type

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 Figure 3. Portable Sprinkler System
SOURCE: Schwab, Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, 4th Edition, 1993

7.1.1.2 Mechanical-Move System

 Side-roll lateral system – the lateral pipes are rigidly coupled and each
joint of pipe is supported by a large wheel where the lateral line forms the
axle for the wheels. This is mechanically moved by an engine mounted at
the center of the line.
 End-tow lateral system – consists of rigidly coupled lateral pipe
connected to a buried mainline positioned in the center of the field.
Laterals are towed lengthwise over the mainline from one side to the
other in an “s” form
 Gun and boom sprinkler system –nozzles are attached to long discharge
tubes and rotated by means of a rocker arm drive

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 Figure 4. Mechanical-move Sprinkler Systems
SOURCE: Schwab, Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, 4th Edition, 1993

7.1.2 Fixed System – sprinkler systems not requiring to be moved during the
course of irrigation
 Solid-set
 Permanent Buried
 Sequencing-Valve Laterals

7.2 Continuous Move System – sprinklers operate while moving in either a

circular or straight path.

 Center-Pivot – sprinkles water from a continuously moving lateral

pipeline. The self-propelled lateral is fixed at one end and rotates to
irrigate a large cicular area. The fixed end of the lateral, called the pivot
point is connected to the water supply.
 Linear-Move – combine the structure and guidance system of a center-
pivot lateral with a traveling water-feed system similar to a travelling
sprinkler
 Travelling – high capacity sprinkler fed with water through a flexible hose
which is mounted on a self-powered chassis and travels along a straight
line while watering
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 Figure 5. Center pivot sprinkler system
SOURCE: FAO Technical Handbook on Pressurized Irrigation Techniques, 2000

8 Data Requirements

8.1 Topographic map – the topographic map shall include the following
details:
 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

8.2 Water resources data

 quantity and quality of water resources over time
 water rights
 cost of water if applicable
8.3 Climate of the area and its influence on the water requirements of the
selected crop

8.4 Soil characteristics and their compatibility with the crops

9 Preliminary Design Procedure

The following parameters shall be computed in designing a periodic-move and

continuous-move sprinkler systems:

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9.1 Net Depth of Water Application

𝑑𝑛𝑒𝑡 = (𝐹𝐶 − 𝑃𝑊𝑃) × 𝑑𝑟𝑧 × 𝑀𝐴𝐷

where:

dnet is the net depth of water application (mm)

FC-PWP is the available moisture (mm/m)
drz is the depth of root zone (m)
MAD is the allowable moisture depletion (%)

9.2 Irrigation Frequency at Peak Demand

𝑑𝑛𝑒𝑡
𝐼𝑓 =
𝑝𝑒𝑎𝑘 𝐸𝑇𝑎
where:

If is the irrigation frequency (day)

dnet is the net depth of water application (mm)
peak ETa is the actual evapotranspiration (see
PNS/BAFS/PAES 217:2017-Determination of
Irrigation Water Requirements) at peak period
(mm/day)

9.3 Gross Depth of Water Application

𝑑𝑛𝑒𝑡
𝑑𝑔𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑠 =
𝐸𝑎
where:

dgross is the gross depth of water application (mm)

Ea is the application efficiency

9.4 Preliminary System Capacity

10 × 𝐴 × 𝑑𝑔𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑠
𝑄𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑚 =
𝐼𝑓 × 𝑁𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑓𝑡 × 𝑇
where:

Qprelim is the preliminary system capacity (m3/h)

A is the design area (ha)
dgross is the gross depth of water application (mm)
If is the irrigation frequency (days)
Nshift is the number of shifts per day
T is the irrigation time per shift (h)

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10 Final Design Procedure

10.1 Periodic-Move System

Figure 5. Final design procedure of a periodic-move sprinkler system

10.1.1 Sprinkler Spacing and Move of Laterals – Sprinkler spacing and lateral
movement shall be decided based on the extent of field area, source of water and
type of sprinkler irrigation system. If wind is a major factor in the area, Tables 1
and 2 may be used. Tables 1 and 2 show the suggested spacing of sprinklers and
laterals based on the wind velocity and spacing pattern. Table 3 shows a sample
suggested sprinkler spacing from a manufacturer’s data, based on the sprinkler
size. Samples of sprinkler spacing patterns are shown in Figure 6.

Table 1. Maximum sprinkler spacing as related to wind velocity,

rectangular pattern

Average Wind Speed Spacing as Percent of Wetted Diameter (D)

(km/hr)
Up to 10 40% between sprinklers, 65% between
laterals
10-15 40% between sprinklers, 60% between
laterals
above 15 30% between sprinklers, 50% between
laterals
SOURCE: FAO - Irrigation Manual Volume III – Module 8, 2001

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 Table 2. Maximum sprinkler spacing as related to wind velocity, square
pattern

Average Wind Speed Spacing as Percent of Wetted Diameter (D)

(km/hr)
Up to 5 55%
6-11 50%
13-19 45%
SOURCE: FAO - Irrigation Manual Volume III – Module 8, 2001

Figure 6. Square and triangular spacing patters for sprinkler irrigation

10.1.2 Irrigation Period – This shall be set based on the sprinkler spacing and
application rate.

10.1.3 Sprinkler Selection – Sprinklers shall be selected such that the average
application rate is less than the infiltration rate of the soil. Data are usually
available from the manufacturer of the sprinkler as shown in Table 3 and Table 4
or the theoretical nozzle discharge of the nozzle can be computed as follows:

𝑞 = 𝑆𝑙 𝑆𝑚 𝑟

𝑞 = 0.00111𝐶𝑑𝑛2 𝑃1⁄2
where:

q is the discharge of each sprinkler (m3/h)

Sl is the sprinkler spacing along the lateral (m)
Sm is the sprinkler spacing along the main (m)
r is the application rate (mm/h)
C is the coefficient of discharge
dn is the diameter of the nozzle orifice (mm)
P is the pressure at the nozzle (kPa)

10
 Table 3. Sprinkler Specifications and Suggested Spacing

Sprinkler Specifications Sprinkler application rate (mm/hr)

Nozzle Pressure q Wetted Sprinkler Spacing (m x m)
Size (kPa) (m3/h) Diameter 9x12 9x15 12x12 12x15 15x15 18x18
(mm) (m)
3.0 250 0.57 25.00 5.28 4.22 3.96
3.0 300 0.63 25.60 5.83 4.67 4.38
3.0 350 0.68 26.20 6.30 5.04 4.72
3.5 250 0.75 26.85 6.94 5.56 5.21 4.17
3.5 300 0.82 27.60 7.59 6.07 5.69 4.56
3.5 350 0.89 28.35 8.24 6.59 6.18 4.94
4.0 300 1.08 26.60 8.00 7.50 6.00 4.60
4.0 350 1.16 30.50 8.59 8.06 6.44 5.16
4.5 300 1.32 30.95 9.17 7.33 5.87
4.5 350 1.42 32.00 9.86 7.89 6.31
4.5 400 1.52 33.05 10.56 8.44 7.56
5.0 300 1.70 33.00 9.44 8.18 5.25
5.0 350 1.84 34.30 10.22 8.18 5.68
5.0 400 1.96 35.60 10.89 8.71 6.05
SOURCE: FAO - Irrigation Manual Volume III – Module 8, 2001

Table 4. Sample Sprinkler Characteristics for a Head with Two Nozzles

Nozzle Diameters (mm)

Nozzle 3.97 x 3.18 4.76 x 3.97 6.35 x 3.97
Pressure Wetted Wetted Wetted
Discharge Discharge Discharge
(kPa) Diameter Diameter Diameter
(L/s) (L/s) (L/s)
(m) (m) (m)
207 25 0.37 26 0.52 28 0.76
276 27 0.43 28 0.61 31 0.90
345 28 0.47 30 0.68 34 1.00
414 30 0.52 31 0.74 36 1.10
SOURCE: Fangmeier, D.D, et al. 2006. Soil and Water Conservation Engineering,
Fifth Edition

10.1.4 System Capacity

𝑄 = 𝑁𝑐 × 𝑁𝑠 × 𝑞
where:

Q is the system capacity (m3/h)

Nc is the number of laterals operating per shift
Ns is the number of sprinklers per lateral
q is the discharge of each sprinkler (m3/h)

10.1.5 Determination of Pipe Sizes – The following shall be considered in

selecting pipe sizes for mains and laterals:

10.1.5.1 The total pressure variation in the laterals, if practicable shall not be
more than ±10% of the design pressure.

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10.1.5.2 If the lateral runs up or downhill, allowance for the difference in
elevation shall be made in determining the variation in the head.

10.1.5.3 The diameter of the main shall be adequate to supply the laterals in
each of their positions.

10.1.5.4 The position of the lateral that gives the highest friction loss in the main
shall be considered.

10.1.5.5 The allowable friction loss in the laterals is 20% of the average
pressure.

10.1.5.6 The velocity in the main line shall be less than or equal to 2 m/s.

10.1.6 Friction Loss in Main Lines – can be determined using Hazen-Williams

Equation, Darcy Weisbach or other friction loss formula. The formula given
below is based on Hazen Williams

𝑄 1.852
1.21 × 1010 𝐿 (𝐶 )
𝐻𝑓 =
𝐷4.87
where:

Hf is the total friction loss in pipe with the same

flow throughout (m)
L is the length of pipe (m)
Q is the total discharge (L/s)
C is the pipe roughness coefficient
145 to 150 for plastic pipe
120 for aluminum pipe with couplers and new or
coated steel pipe
D is the inside diameter of pipe (mm)

10.1.7 Friction Loss in Laterals

ℎ𝑓 = 𝐻𝑓 × 𝐹
where:

hf is the friction loss in the lateral (m)

Hf is the total friction loss in pipe with the same
flow throughout (m)
F is the correction factor depending on the number
of outlets in the lateral (Table 5)

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 Table 5. F factors for various number of outlets

Number of F Number of F
outlets outlets
1 1.000 14 0.370
2 0.625 15 0.367
3 0.518 16 0.365
4 0.469 17 0.363
5 0.440 18 0.361
6 0.421 19 0.360
7 0.408 20 0.369
8 0.398 21 0.357
9 0.391 22 0.355
10 0.385 23 0.353
11 0.380 24 0.351
12 0.376 25 0.350
13 0.373
SOURCE: Keller, J. and R.D Bliesner. 1990. Sprinkle and Trickle Irrigation

10.1.8 Average Pressure Head

𝑆𝑒 𝐿𝐿
𝐻𝑎 = 𝐻𝑑 + 0.26ℎ𝑓 +
2
where:

Ha is the average sprinkler pressure of a lateral (m)

Hd is the sprinkler pressure at the distal end of the lateral (m)
hf is the friction loss in the lateral (m)
Se is the uniform slope of the lateral from the inlet –
positive slope is uphill
LL is the lateral length (m)

10.1.9 Sprinkler Pressure at the Inlet to the Lateral

𝑆𝑒 𝐿𝐿
𝐻𝑜 = 𝐻𝑎 + 0.74ℎ𝑓 +
2
where:

Ho is the sprinkler pressure at the inlet to the lateral (m)

Ha is the average sprinkler pressure of a lateral (m)
hf is the friction loss in the lateral (m)
Se is the uniform slope of the lateral from the inlet –
positive slope is uphill
LL is the lateral length (m)

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10.1.10 Total Dynamic Head

𝑇𝐷𝐻 = 𝐻𝑛 + 𝐻𝑚 + 𝐻𝑗 + 𝐻𝑠
𝐻𝑛 = 𝐻𝑜 + 𝐻𝑟ℎ
where:

TDH is the total dynamic head against which the pump

is working (m)
Hn is the head required at the junction of the lateral
and the main (m)
Hm is the maximum friction loss in the main and the
suction line (m)
Hj is the elevation difference between the pump and
the junction of the lateral and the main (m)
Hs is the elevation difference between the pump and
the water supply after drawdown (m)
Ho is the sprinkler pressure at the inlet to the lateral (m)
Hrh is the riser height (m)

Figure 7. Head Losses in a Sprinkler Irrigation System

SOURCE: Fangmeier, D.D, et al. 2006. Soil and Water Conservation Engineering,
Fifth Edition

10.1.11 System Capacity – the total sprinkler discharge

𝑄 = 𝑞 ×𝑁
where:

Q is the system capacity (m3/h)

q is the discharge of each sprinkler (m3/h)
N is the total number of sprinklers

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10.1.12 Pump and Power Selection – the pump power requirement shall be
computed as follows:

𝑄 × 𝑇𝐷𝐻
𝑃=
360 × 𝐸𝑝
where:

P is the power requirement (kW)

Q is the system capacity (m3/h)
TDH is the total dynamic head against which the
pump is working (m)
Ep is the pump efficiency from the pump performance chart

10.1.13 Other Components – The following components must be sized and

selected based on the parameters computed above:
 Fittings and pipes
 Protective cage for sprinklers
 Shed for the power components
 Headworks

10.1.14 Map of Design – The map of design shall include the following:
 Map of the area
 System layout indicating the position of the mains and laterals
 Map of uphill and downhill flow
 Bill of quantities

10.2 Continuous-Move System

Figure 7. Final design procedure of a continuous-move sprinkler system

15
10.2.1 Maximum Allowable Flow Rate – The maximum allowable flow rate
shall not exceed the soil’s infiltration rate. The sprinkler’s application rate can be
computed using the formula

𝐾 × 𝑄𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑘𝑙𝑒𝑟 × 360
𝐼=
𝜋 × (0.9 × 𝑅)2 × 𝑤
where:
I is the approximate infiltration rate or approximate
sprinkler application rate (mm/hr)
K is the conversion constant, 3600
Q is the sprinkler discharge (l/s)
R is the wetted radius of sprinkler (m)
w is the portion of circle receiving water (degrees)

10.2.2 Sprinkler Selection – The type of sprinkler shall be based on jet

trajectory and operating pressure.

10.2.2.1 Jet Trajectory

 Most travellers use gun sprinklers with trajectory angles ranging between
18 and 32 degrees.
 High angles give maximum coverage only under low wind conditions and
this minimizes droplet impact.
 For winds exceeding 16 km/hour, gun sprinklers with trajectory angles
between 20 and 21 degrees should be used.
 Where winds are below 16 km/hr, sprinklers with trajectory angles from
26 to 28 degrees are better.
 Low angles generally result in large droplets which are not good for some
crops, especially leaf crops such as tobacco.

10.2.2.2 Operating Pressure - Data are usually available from the manufacturer
of the sprinkler. A sample data is shown in Table 6.

Table 6. Sprinkler Specifications

Diameter of Tapered Nozzle (mm)

Sprinkler
20.3 25.4 30.5 35.6 40.6
Pressure
Sprinkler Discharge and Wetted Diameter
m
l/s m l/s m l/s m l/s m l/s m
42.18 9.02 86.87 14.20 99.06 20.82 111.25 - - - -
49.21 9.78 91.44 15.46 103.63 22.40 115.82 30.29 132.59 - -
56.24 10.41 94.49 16.41 108.20 23.98 120.40 34.50 138.68 42.59 146.3
63.27 11.04 97.54 17.35 111.25 25.56 124.97 34.39 143.26 45.12 150.88
70.30 11.67 100.58 18.30 114.30 26.82 128.02 36.28 146.30 47.64 155.45
77.33 12.30 103.63 19.25 117.35 28.08 131.06 38.18 149.35 48.85 158.50
84.36 12.94 106.68 20.19 120.40 29.34 134.11 39.75 152.40 52.06 163.07
SOURCE: Keller and Bliesner, Sprinkle and Trickle Irrigation, 1990

10.2.3 Tow Path Spacing – This should be selected such that it would provide
the best possible spacing between any two tow-paths. Table 7 gives an example
of recommended tow-path spacings for gun sprinklers.

16
 Table 7. Typical Recommended Tow-Path Spacings for Traveling Gun
Sprinklers under Various Wind Conditions

Sprinkler Wind Speed (km/hr)

Wetted Over 16 8-16 3.2-8 0-3.2
Diameter Spacing as a Percentage of Wetted Diameter
M 50 55 60 65 70 75 75
Tow Path Spacing
60.96 30.44 33.53 36.58 39.62 42.67 45.72 48.77
76.20 38.10 41.76 45.72 49.38 53.34 57.00 60.96
91.44 45.72 50.29 54.86 59.44 64.01 68.58 73.15
106.68 53.34 58.52 64.01 69.19 74.68 79.86 85.34
121.92 60.96 67.06 73.15 79.25 85.34 91.44 94.54
137.16 68.58 75.59 82.30 89.00 96.01 103.02 109.73
152.40 76.20 83.82 91.44 99.06 106.68 114.30 121.92
167.64 83.82 90.05 100.58 109.12 117.35 125.58 134.11
188.88 91.44 100.58 109.73 118.87 128.02 - -
SOURCE: Keller and Bliesner, Sprinkle and Trickle Irrigation, 1990

10.2.4 Travel Speed – Compute the travel speed based on the formula below

𝑘×𝑄
𝑣=
𝑑𝑔𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑠 × 𝑊
where:

dgross is the gross depth of water application (mm)

k is the conversion constant, 60
Q is the sprinkler discharge (l/s)
v is the travel speed (m/min)
W is the tow-path spacing (m)

10.2.5 Readjusted Irrigation Interval – The irrigation interval shall be ajusted

based on the designed operating capacity of the gun sprinkler to travel one tow-
path length in about 23 hours for a single shift per day or 11 hours for 2 shifts
per day. For 2 shifts, 1 hour is provided for between the shifts in order to allow
for the change to the next tow-path.

10.2.6 Hose Length Determination – Calculate the standing positions and time
per operation. It may be assumed that the hose should be as long as the distance
from one end of the field to another, along the tow-path length.

10.2.7 Total Dynamic Head – The total dynamic head shall be computed as the
sum of the following:
 Sprinkler operating pressure
 Friction loss in hose
 Head loss in traveller
 Head loss in automatic valve
 Riser height
 Friction loss in mainline
 Suction head

17
  10% of the sum of the above heads for fittings
 Elevation difference

10.2.8 Pump and Power Selection – the pump power requirement shall be
computed as follows:
𝑄 × 𝑇𝐷𝐻
𝑃=
360 × 𝐸𝑝
where:

P is the power requirement (kW)

Q is the system capacity (m3/h)
TDH is the total dynamic head against which the pump
is working (m)
Ep is the pump efficiency from the pump performance chart

10.2.9 Other Components – The following components must be sized and

selected based on the parameters computed above:
 Fittings and pipes
 Protective cage for sprinklers
 Shed for the power components
 Headworks

10.2.11 Map of Design – The map of design shall include the following:
 Map of the area
 System layout indicating the position of the mains and laterals
 Map of uphill and downhill flow
 Bill of quantities

11 Bibliography
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 2001. Irrigation
Manual Volume III – Module 8: Sprinkler Irrigation Systems: Planning, Design,
Operation and Maintenance

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 2002. Irrigation

Manual Volume III – Module 10: Irrigation Equipment for Pressurized Systems

Keller, J. and R.D Bliesner. 1990. Sprinkle and Trickle Irrigation.

National Irrigation Administration. 1991. Irrigation engineering manual for

diversified cropping.

National Resources Conservation Service – United States Department of

Agriculture. 2012. Part 623: Irrigation – National Engineering Handbook.

Phocaides, A. 2000. FAO Technical Handbook on Pressurized Irrigation

Techniques.

Schwab, G.O., et al. 1993. Soil and Water Conservation Engineering. Fourth
Edition
18
 ANNEX A
(informative)

Types of Sprinklers

A.1 Impact sprinkler

A.1.1 Usually made of brass, stainless steel, aluminium and heavy duty plastic

A.1.2 Parts: the body, which in most cases incorporates the impact bridge, the
impact arm with its counter weight, the spoon and the vane, the arm spring, the
bearing assembly, which includes a number of washers and the bearing sleeve,
and the nozzle

A.1.3 Operation: water coming out of the nozzle is directed by the spoon at a 90-
degree angle, forcing the arm away from the impact bridge. The arm spring, after
absorbing this energy, returns the arm to its original position, which hits the
bridge and causes the body to rotate

A.1.4 The most common nozzle is the straight bore-type which at times is
combined with a wind vane to facilitate better throw under windy conditions

Figure A.1. Impact type sprinkler

A.2 Rotor and gear rotating sprinkler

A.2.1 Gear-driven sprinklers are mostly used for landscape irrigation while
rotor-types of sprinklers are used for solid set, portable and semi-portable
systems in agriculture as well as for landscape irrigation

A.2.2 Operation: water coming out of the nozzle is directed into an offset channel
on the rotor plate, which creates a reactionary drive force that turns the
sprinkler

19
A.2.3 Advantage: claims higher uniformity for the rotor sprinkler compared to
impact sprinklers and the riser vibration caused by the impact sprinkler is
avoided.

Figure A.2. Rotor and Gear Rotating Sprinkler

A.3 Stationary sprinkler

A.3.1 Manufactured from stable engineering plastic and silicon tubing,has a

built-in flow controller, making it suitable for undulating terrain. It also has no
moving parts and a unique flow pattern.

A.3.2 Operation: the water both from the sprinkler inlet and through the flow
controller reaches the silicon tube, setting the tube in motion and water is spread
on the field.

A.3.3 With various models with nominal discharge covering the range of 280-
1400 l/hr.

20
Figure A.3. Stationary Sprinklers

21
 ANNEX B
(informative)

Recommended Materials for Mainlines, Submainlines and Laterals

B.1 Steel threaded pipes

B.1.1 Have the ability to withstand stress, to resist high pressures and to
maintain their strength for the duration of their service life, unlike plastic pipes
which suffer a continuous creep strength with time and temperature
fluctuations.

B.1.2 Mostly useful in small pieces needed for risers in the hydrants, connector
tubes in the head control units and similar applications

B.1.3 Available in nominal diameters (DN), usually in inch-based series which

correspond more or less to the actual bore diameter, and in several high
pressure rates (classes) in accordance with various standards and
recommendations (ISO R-65, BS 1387, DIN 2440/41/42, or to American
Standards, etc.)

B.1.4 Supplied in random lengths of 6 m, they are for permanent assembling

with screw-type (threaded) joints where pipe carries an internal threaded socket

B.1.5 Welded hot-dip galvanized steel pipes have an average life of 15-20 years
on the surface ‘in the atmosphere’ and of 10-15 years in soil depending on soil
physical properties

B.2 Quick coupling light steel pipes

B.2.1 Made of light rolled strip steel which has been hot-galvanized inside and
outside

B.2.2 Each pipe is equipped with a hand-lever quick coupling welded on one end
while the other end is arranged accordingly for water and pressureproof tight
closure

B.2.3 Standard pipe length is 6 m and the working pressure (PN) ranges from
12.0 to 20.0 bars

B.2.4 Light in weight, easy to install and remove, and they are used as mains,
submains, manifold feeder lines and laterals with sprinklers

B.2.5 Have a full range of pipe connector fittings of the same type of joints

B.2.6 Available in many sizes and in diameters (DN) of 70, 76 and 89 mm, which
are convenient for farm-level pressure irrigation techniques

22
B.3 Quick coupling aluminum pipes

B.3.1 Mostly used, always above ground, as moveable lateral lines in sprinkler
irrigation portable installations

B.3.2 Made of aluminium alloy by extrusion or by fusion welding

B.3.3 Light in weight (about half that of the light steel ones), relatively strong
and durable. Manufactured in nominal diameters quoted in inches,
corresponding to the outside pipe diameter, of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 in (51, 76, 102, 127
and 159 mm)

B.3.4 Minimum working pressure is 7.0 bars

B.3.5 In accordance with ISO 11678, the same sizes in the metric series are 50,
75, 100, 125 mm and so on with working pressures of 4.0, 10.0 and 16.0 bars

B.3.6 Supplied in standard lengths of 6, 9 and 12 m, complete with aluminium

quick couplings are either detachable by means of clamps and rings, or
permanently fixed on the tubes

B.3.7 Couplings seal automatically under high water pressure during operation
and drain in pressures below 1.0 bar with the use of U-shaped rubber gaskets

B.3.8 Mmost widely used are the latch system (single or dual), with a 1 in
threaded outlet for sprinkler risers, or hose extensions

B.3.9 Expected life of these pipes is 15 years under good management

B.3.10 Can be used not only as sprinkler lateral lines, but also as water
conveyance and distribution lines

B.4 Rigid PVC pipes

B.4.1 Also called uPVC, these pipes are ideal for irrigation, (cold) water
conveyance and distribution lines as mains and submains and in many cases can
also serve as manifolds and laterals

B.4.2 Must always be laid permanently underground, protected from high or

very low ambient temperatures and solar radiation

B.4.3 Maximum flow velocity should not exceed 1.5 m/s

B.4.4 Manufactured in standard lengths of 6 m

B.4.5 In accordance with the European standards and ISO 161, rigid PVC pipes
are available in nominal diameters (DN), which is the approximate outside
diameter, in 50, 63, 75, 90, 110, 125, 140, 160, 200 and 225 mm

23
B.4.6 Working pressures are 4.0, 6.0, 10.0 and 16.0 bars at 24°C. At higher
temperatures, the working pressures decrease accordingly

B.4.7 Small diameter pipes up to 50 mm and inch-sized pipes have one end plain
with a preformed socket at the other end for solvent cement welding

B.4.8 Larger diameter pipes have a tapered spigot at one end while the other end
consists of a wall-thickened, preformed grooved socket with a rubber sealing
ring for a push-fit integral
mechanical joint

B.4.9 All the fittings and the valves of underground PVC pipelines should be
thrust blocked to prevent them from moving whilst in operation due to the
thrusting force of the water pressure

B.4.10 Estimated average life of buried uPVC pipes is 50 years

B.4.11 Minimum depth of cover should be 45 cm for pipes up to 50 mm, 60 cm

for pipes up to 100 mm, and 75 cm for pipes over 100 mm

B.5 Polyethylene (PE) pipes

B.5.1 Extruded from polyethylene compounds containing certain stabilizers and

2.5 percent carbon black which protect the pipes against ageing and damage
from sunlight and temperature fluctuations

B.5.2 LDPE (low-density resin) pipes are also known as soft polyethylene and PE
25, while HDPE pipes (highdensity resin) are more rigid and known as hard
polyethylene or PE 50 (the numbers correspond to the pipe material’s
hydrostatic design stress)

B.5.3 Manufactured in accordance with various standards in inch-based and

metric series (ISO 161-2, DIN 8072/8074, etc.)

B.5.4 All laterals with micro-emitters are LDPE pipes (hoses) of 12-32 mm.

B.5.5 HDPE pipes of larger diameters are used for main lines, submains and
manifolds.

B.5.6 Supplied with plain ends in coils of 50-400 m, depending on the diameter.

B.5.7 Service life is 12-15 years when laid on the surface

B.5.8 Available in the following sizes: DN (external diameter) millimetres: 12, 16,
20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 75, 90 and 110;

B.5.9 Available in the following working pressures:PN (working pressure) bars:

2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 10.0 and 16.0

24
B.5.10 Maximum flow velocity in the plastic pipes should not exceed 1.5 m/s

B.6 Layflat hose

B.6.1 An alternative to rigid PVC pipes for surface use as water conveyance lines,
mains and manifolds, in drip and other low pressure micro-irrigation
installations

B.6.2 Made of soft PVC reinforced with interwoven polyester yarn

B.6.3 Flexible, lightweight, and available in various sizes (millimetres or inches)

from 1-6 in and for working pressures (PN) of 4.0-5.5 bars

B.6.4 Manufactured with plain ends and supplied in coils in standard lengths of
25, 50 and 100 m

B.6.5 Hoses are connected by inserting small pieces of PE piping into the ends of
the hoses, or by metallic quick couplings attached to both pipe ends

B.6.6 Small diameter PE tubes are used to connect laterals to the layflat
manifolds

25
 ANNEX C
(informative)

Sample Computation for a Side-Roll System

Parameter Value
Area to be irrigated, A 16 ha
Soil silt loam to a depth of 0.9 m with coarse sand
below
Crop tomatoes
Peak daily water use, peak ETa 5.0 mm/day
Available Moisture (FC-PWP) 120 mm/m
Allowable moisture depletion, 40% or 0.4
MAD
Root-zone depth, drz 1.1 m (take 0.9 m since soil is only up to 0.9
m)
Soil infiltration rate 16 mm/h
Application Efficiency 70%
Average wind velocity 5 km/h

C.1 Preliminary Design

C.1.1 Net Depth of Water Application

dnet = (FC − PWP) × drz × MAD = 120 × 0.9 × 0.4 = 43.2 mm

C.1.2 Irrigation Frequency

dnet 43.2 mm
If = = = 8.6 days or 8 days
peak ETa 5.0 mm/day

Readjust dnet since If was readjusted.

mm
dnet = peak ETa × If = 5.0 × 8 days = 40.0 mm
day

C.1.3 Gross Depth of Water Application

dnet 40.0
dgross = = = 57.1 mm
Ea 0.70

C.1.4 Preliminary System Capacity

10 × A × dgross 10 × 16 × 57.1
Qprelim = = = 63.4 m3 ⁄hr
If × Ns × T 8 × 1 × 18

26
C.2 Final Design Steps

C.2.1 Choose sprinkler size: From Table 4, Nozzle – 6.35 mm x 3.97 mm;
Operating Pressure – 276 kPa;
Discharge – 0.90 L/s; Wetted Diameter = 31 m

C.2.2 Determine sprinkler spacing which satisfies wind requirements in Table 1

and Table 2: Sprinkler Spacing – 12.2 m x 18.3 m

C.2.3 Since the application rate is not given. Compute using the formula given in
section 10.1.3. Since the computed value is less than the soil infiltration
rate, the selected sprinkler and spacing are acceptable.

L 1 m3 3600 s 1000 mm 3
q 0.9 × × ×( )
s 1000 L 1h 1m
r=SS = = 14.5 mm/h
l m 12.2 m×18.3 m

dgross 57.1 mm
C.2.4 Set time = = = 3.93 h/set.
r 14.5 mm/h

C.2.5 Prepare a sprinkler layout, assuming the main runs along the center of the
field as shown in Figure C.1.

27
 Figure C.1. Layout of Sprinkler Irrigation System

C.2.6 Number of sprinklers, Ns = 200/12.2 = 16.4 or 16. If the first sprinkler is

12.2 m away from the main, the 16th sprinkler is 5 m away from the boundary,
spraying 10.5 m beyond the boundary. For the purpose of illustration, it will be
considered fine. However, the following options may be considered:

C.2.6.1 Move the first sprinkler to one-half the spacing from the main to
reduce the overspray.

C.2.6.2 Place a part-circle at the end of the lateral

C.2.6.3 Remove one sprinkler from the lateral.

28
C.2.7 Number of lateral locations = 400/18.3= 21.86 or 21. Where there are 20
spaces between set locations, and the sprinklers will spray one half the wetted
diameter on each side of the field, the total coverage is 366+31 = 397 m.

C.2.8 Determine the number of laterals needed. Assuming one lateral operates
per set, the irrigation time is greater than the required irrigation frequency, an
no other time for repair and maintenance, choose other options.

Irrigation Time = (Set time × No. of sets ) + (Move Time × No. of Moves)
h h
= (3.93 set × 42sets ) + (1 move × 42moves) = 207 h or 8.6 days > If

C.2.8.1 Use one long lateral, with main on the side.

C.2.8.2 Use two laterals per set.

h h
Irrigation Time = (3.93 set × 3 set/day ) + (2 move × 3moves/day) =
17.8 h/day
21 sets
Irrigation Time = = 7 days
3 set/day

C.2.9 Compute for the system capacity.

Q = Nc × Ns × q = 2 × 16 × 3.24 = 103.7 m3/hr

C.2.10 Select the size of the lateral: LL =195m, aluminum pipe, outside diameter=
101.6 mm with wall thickness = 1.83 mm.

C.2.11 Compute for the friction loss.

Q 1.852 14.4 1.852

1.21 × 1010 L ( C ) 1.21 × 1010 × 195 ( 120 )
Hf = = = 9.37 m
D4.87 (101.6 − 2 × 1.83)4.87

hf = 9.37 m × 0.38 = 3.56

C.2.12 Compute for the average pressure head.

Se LL 276 195
Ha = Hd + 0.26hf + = 9.81 + (0.26 × 3.56) + = 29.1 m
2 2

C.2.13 Recompute the sprinkler flow for the average pressure, application rate,
friction loss in the lateral with the new average pressure.

29.1 0.5
q = 0.9 (9.81 × 276 ) = 0.915 L/s
L 1 m3 3600 s 1000 mm 3
0.915 × × ×( )
s 1000 L 1h 1m
r= = 14.8 mm/h
12.2 m×18.3 m

29
 14.64 1.852
0.38×1.21×1010 ×195( )
120
hf = 4.87
= 3.67 m
(101.6−2×1.83)
276 195
Ha = 9.81 + (0.26 × 3.67) + = 29.08 m
2

C.2.14 Compute for the pressure at the inlet to the lateral.

195
Ho = 29.1 + (0.74 × 3.67) + = 31.8 m
2

C.2.15 Determine if the pressure variation in the lateral is less than 20% of the
average pressure.

hf < 0.2 × 29.1; thus 101.6-mm lateral is acceptable

C.2.16 Determine the size of the main line. L = 183 m, D1 = 101.6 mm, D2 = 127
mm; wall thickness = 1.3 mm

Q 1.852 14.4 1.852

1.21×1010 L( ) 1.21×1010 ×183( )
C 120
Hf = = = 8.6 m
D4.87 (101.6−2×1.3)4.87

Q 1.852 14.4 1.852

1.21×1010 L( ) 1.21×1010 ×183( )
C 120
Hf = = = 2.8 m
D4.87 (127.0−2×1.3)4.87

For lower pumping costs and better uniformity, choose 127-mm pipe for
the main line.

C.2.17 Determine the wheel diameter .

D = 1.47m, Travel Distance = 4 × π × 1.47 = 18.5 m

D = 1.93m, Travel Distance = 3 × π × 1.93 = 18.2 m

Choose 1.47-m wheel for sufficient clearance between the lateral and
tomatoes, and less susceptible to wind damage or movement as well.

C.2.18 Determine the total dynamic head.

Hn = Ho + Hrh = 31.8 + 1.47⁄2 + 0.2 = 32.7 m

TDH = Hn + Hm + Hj + Hs = 32.7 + 2.8 + 1.0 + 3.0 = 39.5 m

C.2.19 Select the pump with the following characteristics:

Discharge Capacity: 29.3 L/s or 105.48 m3/h
TDH: 39.5 m
Efficiency: as high as possible

C.2.20 Compute for the pump power. Assuming pump efficiency of 70%

Q×TDH 105.48×39.5
P= = = 16.53 kW
360×Ep 360×0.7

30
 Technical Working Group (TWG) for the Development of Philippine
National Standard for Design of a Pressurized Irrigation System – Part A –
Sprinkler Irrigation

Chair

Engr. Bonifacio S. Labiano

National Irrigation Administration

Members

Engr. Felimar M. Torizo Dr. Teresita S. Sandoval

Board of Agricultural Engineering Bureau of Soils and Water Management
Professional Regulation Commission Department of Agriculture

Dr. Armando N. Espino Jr. Dr. Elmer D. Castillo

Central Luzon State University Philippine Society of Agricultural Engineers

Dr. Roger A. Luyun Jr. Engr. Francia M. Macalintal

University of the Philippines Los Baños Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries
Department of Agriculture

Project Managers

Engr. Darwin C. Aranguren

Engr. Romulo E. Eusebio

Engr. Mary Louise P. Pascual

Engr. Fidelina T. Flores

Engr. Marie Jehosa B. Reyes

Ms. Micah L. Araño

Ms. Caroline D. Lat

Mr. Gerald S. Trinidad

University of the Philippines Los Baños –

Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center