Effect of some design parameters on the performance of side access nozzle and grooved plate of centre pivot sprinkler

Abstract

This research evaluates the effect of various heights, pressures, nozzle size and groove numbers on the uniformity distribution of a developed pivot sprinkler. The experiment was set up at an open space in Niger State College of Agriculture Mokwa. The wind speed and temperature during the experiment were at an average of 2.2mph and 25°C. A nozzle of size 6mm, and deflection plate of 6 curved grooves were used in a centre pivot spray unit. In evaluating the performance of the spray unit components i.e. the nozzle and deflection plate, three different pressures of 5, 10, and 15 Psi and heights of 1, 1.2, and 1.5mm were used. The support structure for the experiment is an inverted U-shaped frame designed to support a spray sprinkler at different heights. The water source was a reservoir with a capacity of 3m3and a 1.5hp electric centrifugal pump was used. The volumetric or bucket method was used to measure flow rate. The application rate was measured using catch can method. The duration of each test was approximately 30min. The data obtained from the measurements were statistically analyzed with line graphs using Excel. Relationships were also established between discharge and pressure. The highest index of jet break up was 4.89 at 15Psi and 3.74 at 10Psi. The result shows that as the pressure increases with height the CU also increases. The highest uniformity of 79.4% was obtained at 1.5m height and 15Psi.