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The mechanical irrigation system provides several methods for applying water to crops and soil. These methods are usually cost-effective and energy-efficient, making them suitable for large farms far from water sources.
Drip Irrigation
A mechanical drip irrigation system delivers water to the roots of plants. It uses a network of tubes, pumps, and flow regulators to provide a low and steady amount of water. The system is often gravity-fed and can work on sloped surfaces. This irrigation method minimizes water loss and gives the gardener better control over how much water each plant receives.
Canal Flooding
This method floods a field or farm with open channels or canals. The system uses gates and levees to control the flow of water. It allows plants to grow submerged or partially submerged. While it may use a lot of water, canal flooding is simple, and it works well for growing rice and other water-loving crops.
Sprinkler Irrigation
A mechanical sprinkler irrigation system uses pumps to spray a fine mist or spray of water over crops. The pumps can be powered by sprinklers turned by wind, flows through channels, or by being connected to a portable generator. While the sprinkler system may use more water than a drip system, it can cover a large area compared to other irrigation methods.
Subsurface Irrigation
Subsurface irrigation allows water to flow directly to the root zone of crops through buried tubes or pipes. The system helps reduce evaporation and can keep weeds from growing. It also makes water distribution uniform. Subsurface irrigation works very well on sandy soils or in arid regions where water efficiency is very important.
Mechanical irrigation systems come in different specifications to suit distinct agricultural needs and plot sizes, which also affects the maintenance requirements for these systems.
System capacity
The ability of an irrigation system to supply water is its capacity, typically measured in litersper minute or gallons per minute. Farmers should match the irrigation system's capacity with the expected water demand from crops and available water sources.
Irrigation coverage area
Many frequently used mechanical irrigation systems, such as sprinkler and drip, can cover both large and small areas. Users should take plot size, shape, and crop spacing into consideration when selecting a system to ensure uniform irrigation.
Water pressure requirements
The pressure produced by a liquid's weight both inside and outside the body must be strong enough for the system to work. Either a gravity-fed system that uses a water tower situated at high altitude, or a pump that pressurises the water, can provide the pressure. Pump selection and tank height must be considered with water delivery and crop needs in mind.
Component durability
Systems with moving parts require resilient materials and dependable manufacturing to withstand frequent use and weather. Select the materials and production standards for the sprockets, bearings, chains, and other essential components that will last for a long time.
Compatibility with water sources
Filters, screens, or other devices may be used to prepare water from various sources so that it can be used as an irrigation system. Typical sources include groundwater, streams, reservoirs, and rainwater.
Cost considerations
The upfront investment and long-term operating expenses of different irrigation types. Balancing factor analysis, all area coverage, mechanization, and conservation, the choice of mechanical irrigation system may be made according to crop needs and budget.
Proper mechanical irrigation system maintenance maximizes crop yield, minimizes input, extends system life, and reduces breakdowns and repairs. The maintenance requirements vary according to the type of mechanical irrigation system and its components.
Some simple but effective routines that all systems share include the following:
Additional specific maintenance tips for different subsystems are as follows:
For central drive gearboxes and chains:
Check periodically for proper gear oil level and add oil if required; adjust chain tension and lubricate as per schedule.
For lateral moving lines:
Inspect connectors and hoses for leaks, clean drip nozzles, and check filter condition, etc.
For sprinkler heads:
Inspect the spray tubes and nozzles, clean the nozzle orifice, and examine the rain sensor or timer, etc.
For drip lines:
Check for kinks, leaks, and proper operation of emitters, etc.; flush the lines to remove sediment buildup; and examine the pressure regulators, filters, etc.
Business buyers should develop a tailored irrigation system maintenance plan based on the specific components and operating conditions. To extend the service life of the irrigation equipment and maximize the return on investment, the plan should also be within a reasonable schedule.
Automated farm irrigation systems are used in different agricultural settings to take care of crops while ensuring consistent and expert water management for healthy crop growth. Here are some of the uses of mechanical irrigation systems for farms.
When purchasing an irrigation system, it is essential to consider the different aspects of the system. Buyers should ensure that there is a detailed explanation and knowledge of the mechanical irrigation system's parts and how they work together to provide the desired results.
Additionally, an ideal purchasing decision should consider the adaptive nature of the system, as different crops require varying moisture levels. Therefore, the system should be able to change its functioning according to the needs of the farmed land.
A buyer should ensure that they consult an expert on the climate of their region before purchasing an mechanical irrigation system. Different systems work optimally in different climates, so it is essential to consider the local environmental conditions.
The energy needs and hydraulic pressure requirements of the system must also be considered, as they have a considerable impact on operational costs. In this case, a buyer should consider the governance and financial aspects of the system.
Moreover, the capacity of the system to distribute water uniformly over a specific area is very crucial. A uniform distribution will ensure that plants growing in the same area will receive equal amounts of moisture for adequate growth.
More importantly, a buyer should also consider the durability and quality of material used in the construction of the mechanical irrigation system. This ensures a reliable and long-lasting performance of the system. Additionally, the maintenance and service requirements of the system should be looked into. An easily maintainable system helps reduce downtime and ensures smooth operation over time.
A mechanical irrigation system's water application rates, droplet sizes, and pressure loss characteristics should be checked to ensure it is suited to the intended purpose and environment. Additionally, a buyer should also consider user-friendly control systems with features such as automated scheduling, remote monitoring, and smart technology integration.
Finally, an ideal buyer will invest in a system that conserves resources, as water shortage is a global concern. The compatibility of the irrigation system with other farm automation systems is also essential, as this would ensure that the farm runs optimally.
Q1: What crops are suitable with a mechanical irrigation system?
A1: Many types of crops can grow well with mechanical irrigation. This includes cereals like rice, corn, and wheat. It also includes fruit and nut trees, vegetables planted both in the field and in greenhouses, as well as cotton and landscaped plants.
Q2: How do mechanical irrigation systems save water?
A2: Mechanical irrigation systems save water by using non-pressurized methods like flood and basin farmland, precise water application like dripper tapes in sprinkler and drip irrigation, controlled automation, and targeted irrigation scheduling based on soil moisture sensors and weather data.
Q3: How long can a mechanical irrigation system run continuously?
A3: A well-maintained mechanical irrigation system can run continuously for 10 to 20 years or longer with regular maintenance, such as checking and repairing components, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting the watering equipment.
Q4: What is the flow rate for a mechanical irrigation system?
A4: The suitable flow rate depends on the specific type of mechanical irrigation system used. For drip irrigation, each emitter usually has a flow rate between 2 to 10 liters per hour. Sprinkler irrigation flow rates can range from 100 to 500 liters per hour per unit. Large central pivot systems can have a total flow rate of 5,000 to 10,000 liters per hour.