Part 1: The importance of pivot sprinkler systems for irrigation efficiency and uniformity 

When it comes to centre pivot irrigation, few things are as important as choosing the correct sprinkler package. While a trustworthy machine structure forms the backbone of the system, it’s the sprinklers that directly impact crop performance. The right selection can boost yields and efficiency, the wrong choice can mean devastation. 

Why is the choice of sprinklers important?

Choosing the latest technology when it comes to sprinklers directly affects both yield and water-usage. The right sprinkler package promotes even water distribution, reduces losses, and helps you get the most out of every drop. A poor choice, on the other hand, can lead to uneven water distribution, wastage, and ultimately, reduced crop performance. These results can be summarised as irrigation uniformity and efficiency.

Irrigation uniformity and efficiency are largely determined by the sprinkler selection and spacing. Both have a direct impact on yield. Uniformity refers to delivering the same amount of water to every part of the field. For good uniformity, each sprinkler must distribute water evenly within its wetted area and as a general rule the sprinklers’ wetted areas should overlap by at least 150%. 

Efficiency is the percentage of water that actually enters the soil and benefits the crop, compared to the total amount discharged by the sprinkler. Factors like wind drift losses and evaporation losses significantly reduce efficiency. For centre pivots, we aim for an efficiency of above 80%. 

Why should I upgrade my sprinkler package? 

Upgrading your sprinkler package is a smart investment that pays off in both the short and long term. The cost of a spray package is minimal when compared to the significant benefits of using a high-quality option. A new Agrico sprinkler package can be installed on any brand of pivot, and can be incredibly advantageous to your irrigation system as a whole. Here’s why: 

  1. Modern sprinkler systems are able to deliver optimal uniformity at lower pressures and thus can lower the energy consumption. 
  2. Better irrigation uniformity leads to higher yields. In fact, studies have shown that every 1% drop in uniformity can lower yield by as much as 2% (Reinders, 1998).
  3. Improved sprinkler technology reduces wind drift and evaporation losses, making every drop count.
  4. Higher efficiency means that you need to irrigate less to get the same amount of water to the crop’s roots. Less water means less energy consumed.
  5. The typical sprinkler package lifespan 10,000 – 15,000 hours, before wear compromises its efficiency and accuracy. 

Now that we understand just how important a sprinkler system is, and why it is important to upgrade or replace it at a certain interval, next we will dive into its key components and how it works together to distribute water in the field. Stay tuned for Part 2. 

Promotion on pivot sprinklers!

Do you have any questions regarding pivot sprinkler upgrades? Fill in our special Sprinkler Enquiry form and we will take it from there!

Get a massive 30% off all sprinkler package components – including regulators, nozzles, and accessories!

  • Promo valid until 31 July 2025
  • Available at all Agrico branches nationwide
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Don’t miss out on optimal efficiency! Get your sprinkler package upgrade today and save big.

 

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