Big farm irrigation system

Types of big farm irrigation systems

A big farm irrigation system provides adequate water to crops on large farms. The following describes some of the most common big irrigation system models found on farms.

• Center-pivot irrigation: This dominant method in the United States supplies water from a rotating arm mounted on wheels. The unique feature of this system is that it covers several circles with a distinct green pattern when seen from above. To maximize the irrigated area, the randomly spaced girders and smaller supporting columns can be found. An advantage of this system is that it can be automated to work independently and use water and energy efficiently.
• Lateral-move irrigation: This method resembles center-pivot irrigation but uses a straight line instead of a circular line to irrigate the crop. An advantage of this type of irrigation system is that it can be moved from one cropped area to another with great ease and rapidity.
• Surface irrigation: By using gravity flow, this method provides adequate water to crops situated on a sloped land surface. Furrow irrigation, which uses narrow water-spaced channels between crop rows, and flood irrigation, where the entire field is submerged, are two common surface irrigation types.
• Drip irrigation: This method supplies water with the help of small drippers located on a plastic pipe. The design allows water to drip (around 1 to 2 liters an hour) at the base of each plant. This method is very water conserving, as it gives a localized and precise application.
• Spray irrigation: Often used in conjunction with surface and drip methods, this high-energy application irrigates a field through spraying water from pressurized pipes. This method can irrigate large areas depending on the capacity of the pump.

Specification and maintenance of big farm irrigation systems

The specifications of big irrigation systems vary depending on the type of system and its application. Here are some key specifications to consider.

• Length and coverage area

  The length and coverage area refer to the distance the irrigation system covers and the total land area it can effectively hydrate. Irrigation systems with longer lengths can cover bigger square farmland areas. For instance, a center pivot irrigation system that has a long arm applies water to a circular area.

• Flow rate and pressure

  Flow rate and pressure are the volumes of water that an irrigation system expels per minute or hour and the force at which the system releases water. A big farm drip irrigation system or sprayer system with a high flow rate and pressure can cover a larger area than systems with lower rates.

• Water storage capacity

  Water storage capacity refers to the volume of water tanks or reservoirs used for irrigation. A big farm with a large water storage capacity can supply this water even when there is no rainfall.

It is important to follow a proper maintenance schedule for a big irrigation system. System upkeep guarantees optimal performance, saves water, and extends equipment life. Here are some maintenance tips for big farm irrigation systems:

• Regularly inspect the system for signs of leakage, clogs, or other damages.
• Test the water pressure and flow rate to ensure they are within the recommended levels.
• Clean filters, nozzles, and heads to remove debris build-up.
• Check the system's alignment and level, making the necessary adjustments to ensure uniform water distribution.
• Monitor the system's performance and promptly address issues.

Scenarios

Big farm irrigation systems can help different industries, from agriculture to landscaping, adapt to weather changes and achieve their goals efficiently.

• Agriculture

Big farm irrigation systems are essential for growing crops in agriculture. They water crops consistently, resulting in better growth, bigger yields, and high-quality produce, even in dry seasons or areas with little rainfall.

• Commercial orchards and vineyards

Good irrigation is important for maintaining proper soil moisture levels when growing fruit trees and grapevines. Drip irrigation systems on big farms can achieve this goal while using water efficiently.

• Large-scale nurseries and greenhouses

Big farm irrigation systems can assist with different types of plant propagation in controlled environments like greenhouses and nurseries. Automated watering through overhead misting or precise drip methods helps promote healthy growth and conserve water.

• Livestock and poultry farms

Big farm irrigation systems are important for livestock production. They provide a consistent and clean water supply for animals' drinking needs. Additionally, irrigation systems are helpful for cooling and dust suppression in keeping animal facilities comfortable and sanitary.

• Land reclamation and restoration

Big farm irrigation systems can help restore degraded lands and reclaim arid or saline soils through controlled watering. Proper irrigation promotes successful plant establishment and soil improvement. It also reduces erosion on vulnerable sites.

• Research and development

Big farm irrigation systems allow for precise environmental control in agricultural research at experimental stations, universities, and biotechnology facilities. Scientists can conduct different irrigation methods to study crop responses under various scenarios. The findings will help develop effective practices for future implementation.

How to Choose Big Farm Irrigation Systems

• Farm Size and Layout:

  It is important to consider the size and layout of the farm when determining irrigation needs. The dimensions of the property influence how much water is required for crops, as well as the distance between fields. Farm shape also plays a role in choosing irrigation methods. Efficient irrigation planning can be achieved by matching appropriate systems to land characteristics.

• Soil Type and Quality:

  When determining irrigation needs, it is important to consider soil type and quality. The amount of moisture required for crops depends on whether sandy, clayey, or loamy soils are present. Soil quality affects the ability of land to retain water used by plants. Irrigation systems must efficiently move water where different soil types allow sufficient drainage and absorption.

• Water Source:

  When determining irrigation needs, it is important to consider water sources. The quality and quantity of available water from rivers, lakes, or underground wells influence the amount of water that can be used for irrigation. Choosing suitable irrigation systems depends on properly assessing water sources to ensure efficient and sustainable use.

• Climate and Weather Patterns:

  The amount of rainfall and temperature fluctuations throughout the year must be considered. Irrigation requirements may vary between regions with high temperatures and little rainfall compared to those with more temperate, wetter conditions. By assessing climate and weather patterns, an efficient irrigation method can be chosen.

• Crop Type and Water Requirements:

  Different crops grown on big farms have varying water needs. Some plants require frequent, small water amounts, while others need large irrigation less often. When deciding on a farm irrigation system, it is important to consider the kinds of crops being cultivated. Matching the chosen approach to land's specific agricultural practices will allow sufficient watering for healthy crop development.

• Irrigation System:

  When choosing a suitable irrigation technique for large-scale agriculture, factors such as energy expenses must be taken into account. The costs associated with farm watering methods depend on whether water is moved using electricity, diesel-powered generators, or manually transported. Selecting an affordable, effective way to supply plants with water requires careful consideration of the economic implications of different energy sources powering irrigation systems.

FAQ

Q1: What new technology is used in big irrigation systems?

A1: Big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence have all made their way into irrigation systems. These smart farms can regularly check the weather forecast and soil moisture levels. Then, the center pivot irrigation system will decide how much water should be irrigated and at what time. This automated process can save water, lower cost, and improve productivity.

Q2: What are the trends in the big irrigation system market?

A2: One trend is the smart irrigation system. Another trend is the large-scale adoption of drip irrigation. As big irrigation systems are used to cover large areas of land, farmers need a system that can give water evenly on a large scale. Drip irrigation works well to irrigate crops from the root upwards.

Q3: What are the challenges of the big irrigation system?

A3: The big irrigation system market deals with a few challenges. The high cost of installation and maintenance is a big challenge. Also, if the system is not used as required, it can have a bad effect on the health of the soil and the crops.