Design and experimental study on pressure compensating emitters in drip irrigation

Abstract

This thesis aims to solve the basic physics behind the collapsible tube dripper design used in drip irrigation. A study was performed on the dynamics of the flow limitation of collapsible tubes. Two parameters were studied: outlet hole diameter and effective length. Prototypes were made varying these parameters, and flow tests were conducted to collect data on pressure and flow rate. Introducing a valve to control the flow significantly improved the control of experiments and the ability to test for pressure compensation. It was found that the outlet hole diameter is directly correlated with outlet flow rate and activation pressure, but indirectly correlated with constancy of flow rate. The impact of effective length on flow rate is still unclear but the results show that there is a possible correlation that may depend on other factors and characteristics of the flow.