Optimal design of a periodic‐move sprinkler irrigation system considering pump characteristics

Abstract

AbstractAn optimisation model is developed for designing a single‐ and two‐pipe size periodic‐move sprinkler lateral for various values of uniform upward and downward slopes. Two layouts are considered, and the optimisation model maximizes the length of the main line subject to a minimum desirable pump efficiency and an allowable pressure variation without throttling the pump at the lateral inlet. The step‐by‐step approach is used for computing the frictional head loss of the pipelines for analysis of sprinkler pressure heads. The head‐discharge characteristics of sprinkler heads, the pipe characteristics of the lateral and main lines and the pump characteristics are matched to determine the optimal diameter and length of the main line and diameter of the lateral line. The applicability of the optimisation models are illustrated by solving standard design problems using LINGO 18.0. Larger pipe diameters for single‐ and two‐pipe size laterals resulted in an increase in the length of the main line and, subsequently, the area. The developed optimisation model can be used for designing the periodic‐move sprinkler irrigation system for any given field and farmers conditions according to field shape, topography of the land and availability of sprinkler components, pipe sizes and pumps.