Evaluation of The Hydraulic and Field Performance of Center Pivot Irrigation Systems in a Semi-Arid Climate

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Aim of the studyThis study aims to evaluate the hydraulic and field performance of center irrigation systems in a semi-arid climate to determine their efficiency and effectiveness in optimizing water use and crop yield in such conditions.Material and methodsThe performance evaluation of the center pivot system involved placing two rows of catch-cans, spaced three meters apart and radiating outward from the pivot point, to measure the distribution and uniformity of irrigation. This setup helped in assessing the system’s efficiency in delivering water.Results and conclusionsIn the Almutawar system, the average performance metrics for the 2022/2023 season were: CU = 77.8%, DU = 85.7%, SC = 1.2%, AE = 84.3%, and WL = 18%. For the 2023/2024 season, these metrics were: CU = 78.9%, DU = 85.6%, SC = 1.2%, AE = 84.9%, and WL = 18.3%. Similarly, in the Zimmatic system, the average results were: CU = 79.1%, DU = 87.5%, SC = 1.2%, AE = 87.4%, and WL = 17.0% for 2022/2023, and CU = 79.9%, DU = 85.8%, SC = 1.2%, AE = 88.2%, and WL = 15.9% for 2023/2024. ANOVA revealed that the differences in CU, DU, and AE across treatments were not statistically significant (P = 0.01), though a general trend suggesting improved performance in the 2023/2024 season was noted. The study found that the hydraulic function of the center pivot system varied with different steering modes, suggesting potential issues with design compliance and efficiency. Further investigation into these discrepancies could help in optimizing system performance.