Sprinkler Pump

The sprinkler pump is the core equipment of the sprinkler system. It is responsible for pressurizing the water from the water source (such as rivers, lakes, well water, etc.) and delivering it to the sprinkler head to form a uniform spraying effect. The following is a detailed introduction to the sprinkler pump:

1. The main types of sprinkler pumps

Centrifugal pump

Features: simple structure, large flow, moderate head, suitable for scenes with stable water sources and large flow irrigation (such as farmland and lawn).

Classification: single-stage centrifugal pump (low head), multi-stage centrifugal pump (high head, suitable for deep wells or long-distance water delivery).

Submersible pump

Features: The motor and the water pump are integrated, submerged in water, suitable for deep wells or reservoirs to pump water, low noise and high efficiency.

Applicable scenarios: areas with deep groundwater levels.

Axial flow pump

Features: extremely large flow and low head, suitable for large areas of shallow water (such as rice fields, drainage irrigation).

Mixed flow pump

Features: between centrifugal pumps and axial flow pumps, medium flow and head, suitable for plain areas.

Self-priming pump

Features: No need to fill water before starting, can automatically exhaust, suitable for frequent start and stop or mobile sprinkler irrigation system.

2. Core parameters of sprinkler irrigation pump

Flow rate (Q)

Unit: m³/h or L/min, calculated according to the irrigation area and crop water demand.

For example: 1 hectare of farmland requires a flow rate of about 30~50m³/h.

Head (H)

Unit: meter (m), refers to the height that the pump can lift water, including terrain height difference, pipeline friction loss and nozzle working pressure.

Total head = net head + pipeline loss + nozzle pressure.

Power (P)

Divided into shaft power (actual power required by the pump) and matching power (motor power, 10%~20% margin needs to be reserved).

Efficiency (η)

Reflects the energy consumption ratio of the pump. High-efficiency pumps can save electricity bills (general centrifugal pump efficiency is 60%~80%).

3. Key points for selecting sprinkler pumps

Match the needs of sprinkler irrigation systems

Calculate the required flow and head based on the number of sprinkler heads, working pressure (usually 2~4 bar) and pipeline layout.

Water source conditions

Shallow water (such as ponds): select centrifugal pumps or self-priming pumps; deep water (>5 meters): select submersible pumps.

Energy type

Electric drive: commonly used three-phase or single-phase motors; diesel engine pumps or solar water pumps can be used in areas without electricity.

Material selection

Clean water: cast iron or stainless steel; water containing sediment: select wear-resistant materials (such as high chromium alloy).

4. Installation and maintenance

Installation precautions

The foundation of the water pump must be stable to avoid vibration; the water inlet pipeline must be well sealed to prevent cavitation;

The self-priming pump needs to be filled with water for the first start, and the submersible pump must be completely immersed in water.

Daily maintenance

Clean the filter regularly to prevent clogging;

Check the bearing lubrication (grease or oil);

Drain the accumulated water after winter shutdown to prevent freezing and cracking.

Common troubleshooting

No water: Check whether the suction is too high, the pipeline is leaking or the impeller is blocked;

Insufficient flow: Clean the filter and check whether the speed meets the standard;

Abnormal noise: The bearing may be damaged or cavitation occurs, and the machine needs to be shut down for maintenance.

V. Energy saving and optimization

Frequency control: Adjust the speed of the water pump according to actual needs to save energy.

Multiple pumps in parallel: When large flow is required, multiple water pumps can work together.

Intelligent irrigation system: Combined with soil moisture sensors, the water pump is automatically started and stopped.

Summary

The selection of sprinkler irrigation pumps needs to comprehensively consider water source conditions, system requirements and energy efficiency. Reasonable selection and maintenance of water pumps can significantly improve the effect of sprinkler irrigation and extend the life of equipment. For large agricultural projects, it is recommended to consult professional engineers for hydraulic calculations and scheme design.