Understand How Drip Irrigation System Works

| Saturday, February 8, 2014
By Jayne Rutledge


A drip irrigation system is preferred over the other systems because it is economical on water without affecting production. It targets the root area of the crops by releasing the water in small amounts. The water is dripped on the surface or directly into the soil below. Narrow tubes are used to deliver water directly to the base of the plant.

Common names used to refer to this method of irrigating crops include localized, micro and trickle methods. Common features with this farming method are pipes and tubes of different sizes, valves and emitters. In addition to water, fertilizers and pesticides are delivered using the network. Direct delivery covers for the wastage that is witnessed with sprinkling or irrigating by flood.

The use of emitters came as a solution to blocking of holes by tiny particles present in water. The amount of water released depends on velocity settings. Unlike traditional systems, the modern assembly provides longer and larger passages. Water is supplied from a pressurized source or pump. Natural gravity can supply water if the area is sufficiently slanted.

Systems used to irrigate expansive areas require filtration to avoid blocking and clogging the pipes. The market has provided disc filters, media filters, screen filters and hydro cyclone for that purpose. Fertilizers and chemicals are also administered using the same network. There is need to install valves that prevent back flow which would contaminate water sources with chemicals used on the farm.

Pressure within pipes determines the rate of dripping water. This calls for a control mechanism since water requirement is determined by many other factors. The valves installed can either be hand, hydraulic or electronically operated. Professionals understand the requirements in different sections and are better placed to advice. Thinner poly-tubes deliver water to the last point.

Different sections of the networked pipes are connected using poly fittings. It takes seasoned professionals to design and install an effective system that reflects the needs and demands of the area. The size of emitters and drippers depend on the crops though there are flexible ones for use on different areas. They determine how much water is dripped. The pumps are run by hands or powered by electricity, solar or generators.

The need for filters to prevent clogging is determined by the type of water available for agriculture. Some systems do not have filters because the water is free of any particles. Filters can be placed at the last line because fine particles easily settle around the area or are accidentally inserted at the intermediate lines.

Drip irrigation system is mandatory if a farmer uses recycled municipal water. There are regulations restricting water that is below certain standards from being sprinkled or flooded. The method is also used to deliver pesticides and other chemicals to the base of crops being irrigated. Research has show that this method is very economical with water and other farming chemicals. The amount of chemicals or fertilizer to be used is given by extension officers.




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