Irrigation Pumping Plants: Energy Consumption and Pumping Plant Performance, Class Handout

Authors

Derek M. Heeren, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Saleh Taghvaeian, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Abia Katimbo, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Xin Qiao, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Document Type

Learning Object

Date of this Version

9-21-2024

Citation

Heeren, D. M., Taghvaeian, S., Katimbo, A., & Qiao, X. (2024). Irrigation pumping plants: Energy consumption and pumping plant performance. Class handout. Department of Biological Systems Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

Copyright 2024, the authors. Used by permission.

Abstract

Irrigation can be a large contributor to energy consumption on an irrigated farm. It is important to understand factors that impact irrigation energy use and to identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption. This class handout introduces a set of equations for calculating energy consumption for an irrigation pumping plant based on flow conditions and pump efficiency. It also presents typical values for motor performance (including both electric motors and internal combustion engines) in both SI and USCS units. Finally, the handout introduces the concept of a field evaluation of an irrigation pumping plant along with the Nebraska Pumping Plant Performance Criteria.