G979-1337 Application Uniformity of In-Canopy Sprinklers (Revised November 1999)

Authors

C. Dean Yonts, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
William L. Kranz, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Derrel L. Martin, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

1997

Document Type

Article

Comments

© 1997, The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska on behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension. All rights reserved.

Abstract

This NebGuide describes water management and system design considerations when using in-canopy sprinklers for center pivot irrigation systems. The goal, when using center pivot irrigation, is to uniformly distribute water on the soil surface. Uniform application of water combined with uniform infiltration of water into the soil gives plants equal access to water. As a method to reduce energy costs, many producers are converting their center pivot systems from high to medium or low pressure sprinkler packages. In response, sprinkler manufacturers have developed new devices for use above and below the center pivot pipeline to uniformly apply water at lower pressures. On the positive side, lowering the operating pressure of a sprinkler system can reduce pumping costs. On the negative side, lower operating pressure reduces the sprinkler-wetted diameter.