Low Energy Center Pivot Sprinkler Irrigation System

摘要

Reducing the pressure of center-pivot irrigation systems can save energy; however, there can be management problems such as increased runoff and soil erosion and nonuniformity of water application. Options available to help overcome some of these problems are system capacity design, speed of rotation, application rate patterns, and modified cultural practices. Constraints on the use of reduced-pressure center-pivots will often be site specific and depend on the soil type, topography, crop, and history of land use. Reductions in irrigation efficiency resulting from reduced pressure must be considered when determining the net energy savings from reduced-pressure systems. Reduction in irrigation efficiency may negate the energy saved by pressure reduction, especially for those systems with larger lifts. (ERA citation 09:022787)