Three purposes have always been pursued in agriculture: resource optimization, obtaining great results when it comes to producing and ecosystem preservation. Sprinkler irrigation is defined as a pressurized irrigation system that applies water in the form of rain or dew evenly on the ground and reaches a level of between 80 and 85% efficiency.
In our country it is of enormous importance as it is one of the most widely used irrigation systems due to its wide use in the agricultural sector. Let's see point by point what you should know about sprinkler irrigation.
Table of Contents
Types of sprinkler irrigation
In relation to the crop, the area or the system that we are going to use, they can be classified into two types: stationary and continuously moving. Let's see its application and the differences.
Stationary irrigation systems remain stationary while irrigation occurs.
This type is generally used to irrigate soccer fields, which results in great benefits with little effort without the need to monitor or move the system. Among its benefits we highlight that:
- It allows dividing the sprinklers and having control of them according to the terrain.
- Its use is indicated to irrigate lawns or crops that do not require huge amounts of water.
- Once installed, this system does not need personal care.
Unlike the irrigation system mentioned above, those with continuous displacement, when they are in operation, move and achieve a progressive irrigation of the area.
Advantages and disadvantages of sprinkler irrigation
Sprinkler irrigation controls and doses irrigation and water pressure with an eye to optimizing resources. It does not require leveling and facilitates its automation. In addition, sprinkler irrigation allows the use of fertilizers, phytosanitary products and reduces the effect caused by frost.
As for its drawbacks, we see that it has a high investment cost at the beginning for the installation of the materials that are part of the irrigation system, although it pays off a lot. It also requires strict control to combat fungus spread by moisture. This system can have a poor uniformity in the distribution of water when there are strong winds.
Description of the elements of the installation of a sprinkler irrigation system
Among the components of the sprinkler irrigation system, we highlight the following:
Pumping unit or group: If the water supply by gravity is not sufficient, then a pumping unit is needed depending on the flow rate, as well as the irrigation distance between the sprinklers.
Pipelines: Either main or secondary. Although they are generally metallic, they can be made of any material that can withstand water pressure and withstand temporary conditions.
Hydrants, also known as hydrants: These are water intakes that are connected to the secondary and lateral pipes and to the sprinklers.
Lateral pipe or irrigation branch: it performs functions as a pivot located in the sprinkler and rotates on a base.
Control elements: These elements can be hydrants or a regulating valve whose purpose is to limit the flow that reaches the sprinklers and regulate the irrigation pressure.
Sprinklers: They are defined as those devices that rotate around their vertical axis and distribute water on a circular surface.
What crops benefit most from sprinkler irrigation?
Any type of crop can benefit from the sprinkler irrigation system during its development. In addition, the sprinkler system It is the natural way of watering plants.. Among the crops in which they are most used, we highlight those of corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton and all those that are planted in large areas field.
In greenhouses it is essential to micro-spray for the irrigation of lettuce, branch and root vegetables, such as crops that offer excellent results when grown in controlled environments.
If we are not completely clear about the use of the sprinkler irrigation, we recommend seeking direct advice from a professional in the sector, and contacting CONTACT with US. We also recommend that you view information on drip irrigation system.
Leave your comment