Uniformity Studies And Performance Of Sprinkler And Drip Irrigation

ABSTRACT Performance evaluation of irrigation has been an important area of research for better management of water resources. The uniformity coefficient, UC and distribution uniformity, DU, as a performance parameter were analyzed. The average UC and DU values for drip irrigated areas were 80.9% and 68.9%, respectively. These values for sprinkler irrigated lands were 86.8% and 79.9%, respectively. The overall result showed that both UC and DU values were lower in drip irrigation than sprinkler irrigation. Interpretation of the field data not only enables evaluation of the performance of the irrigation practice, but helps identifying the measures required to improve the system performance. The use of drip irrigation enhances irrigation efficiency relative to conventional techniques (such as gravity systems, which include flood irrigation of entire fields, and furrow irrigation using shallow channels or ditches to carry water to the crop). With proper management, application efficiencies for a well designed, installed, and maintained irrigation system can be in the range of 80 to 90 % for the area irrigated. Without proper water management, they are typically 55 to 65 %.1 Drip irrigation can reduce exposure to water risks and input costs making an agribusiness operation more resilient, profitable and solvent.