How is irrigation activity measured?
Pressure Transducers measure the pressure in the irrigation lines in the field. Pressure is reported, when the pressure exceeds a threshold the system registers it as on. When it drops below that threshold it switches to off.
In some cases Pressure Switches are used. Pressure switches transmit a simple on/off signal at a preset pressure. Usually, 5 psi. When the pressure exceeds 5 psi, an on signal is sent. Pressure switches cannot report the pressure in the line.
How are Applied Water values determined?
Applied Water values on the map view and in charts, summaries, and reports are determined by multiplying the run time for that period by the application rate that is in the system for that particular zone or block.
Actual application rates can be calculated and saved to the block under “settings” and “emitter configurations”. If actual values are not entered a default value is used. Click here for a how to on changing these values. It is highly recommended that you enter actual application rates, as rates and system designs vary greatly and the default values may not give an accurate representation of your farm.
What can I learn from the on/off times?
One of the first things many growers realize after having monitoring systems installed is that irrigations are not happening the way they thought. It may just be a matter of irrigators not being able to get around to everything in a timely manner. Whatever the cause, ensuring irrigations happen as intended can improve many aspects of the crop and margins.
Did you know, if schedules are entered into the irrigation scheduler, you will be able to see scheduled vs. actual irrigation times and activity.
What do the periodic drops in pressure indicate?
Regular periodic drops in pressure are usually due to backflushing events at the filter. These are not generally problematic unless the pressure drops more than 8 psi. If they drop 8 psi or more, it can be an indication that the filters are not completely effective in backflushing and could use some maintenance.
What can I learn about my system or practices based on pressure data?
Proper pressure. A quick view of the pressure can tell you if your pressure is appropriate for the placement of the sensor. Pressures in the drip line do not need to be as high as the pressure at the pump. Drip irrigation requires less pressure than sprinklers.
High pressure could just be due to high pressure settings, it could also indicate plugged emitters, especially if soil moisture is not reacting as you would expect it to.
Low pressure could indicate pump problems, too large of an irrigation set, or a large leak.
Periodic drops in pressure larger than 8 psi during irrigation events can indicate that the filter system is not backflushing properly and could use some maintenance.