This video series outlines the key performance checks for a Centre Pivot Irrigation System to help optimise system operation and irrigation scheduling.
Video contents
- An introduction to the benefits of centre pivots/ lateral move irrigation systems
- Checking Pressure
- Uniformity and Application Depth
- Flow Rate
- Pivot End Pressure in the Pump Shed
- Managing Wheel Tracks
- Improving Infiltration by Reducing Application Rate
Video #1: An introduction to the benefits of centre pivots/ lateral move irrigation systems
Video #2: Checking Pressure
Checking the pressure at the end of a pivot is a great indicator of performance. If too low = low uniformity (uneven application of water) If too high = excessive energy consumption
Video #3: Uniformity and Application Depth
If the water application depth is significantly different to what you set on your systems control panel, then irrigation scheduling is very difficult. If you don’t know how much you are applying, how can you know you are matching the crop water use
Video #4: Flow rate
Pump flow rate is a good indicator of whether the system is applying the correct amount of water and is therefore important of irrigation scheduling and uniformity (how evenly water is applied). A measurement of flow rate is also needed to determine energy efficiency of the pump.
Video #5: Pivot End Pressure in the Pump Shed
Pressure at the pump is used to calculate pump efficiency and the total dynamic head of the system.
Video #6: Managing Wheel Tracks
Preventing bog holes in wheel tracks. 1:04 BONUS: Often farmers who have fences that centre pivots have to run over and have difficulties when the centre pivots go over the fences breaking wires.
Video #7: Improving Infiltration by Reducing Application Rate
We don’t just consider the application depth of the water, but also how quickly it’s being applied. If the water’s being applied more quickly than it can infiltrate into the soil, it runs off and causes problems.
Filmed on Eastern Maar Traditional Owners land
Further Irrigation Information:
https://extensionaus.com.au/irrigatin…
https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-m…
Acknowledgements
Thank you to the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority and the farmers involved for supporting the production of these videos.
