What is the main difference between a whirling sprinkler and a propeller sprinkler?

A whirling sprinkler uses a water jet to create high-speed reverse rotation for gardens and orchards. In contrast, a propeller sprinkler operates by the water jet striking a propeller on a shaft to create circular motion, primarily for field crops.

Which sprinkler irrigation system is the most cost-effective for a tight budget?

The tow-move sprinkler system is identified as the least expensive type of sprinkler setup. However, it is less common because moving the wheel-facilitated laterals is tedious and requires careful attention to avoid crop damage.

Why are continuous move sprinkler systems recommended for areas with labor shortages?

Continuous move systems, such as center-pivots or linear-move units, move constantly while water is supplied. This automation eliminates the need for manual labor to relocate laterals, making them ideal for regions where labor is expensive or unavailable.

What are the specific applications for a mini-sprinkler system?

Mini-sprinklers are typically used for irrigating orchards and gardens due to their low discharge rates. They operate efficiently at a low pressure of about 1.5 to 2.0 kg/cm², using a rotating bearing to distribute water through channels.

How does a side roll (wheel roll) irrigation system function?

In a side roll system, wheels are attached to each pipe section where the lateral pipe itself acts as the wheel's axle. Once the pipe is drained after an irrigation set, the entire line is rolled to the next position in the field.

When should a farmer choose a solid-set irrigation system?

A solid-set system is best for crops requiring short, frequent irrigation every 1 to 5 days. Because the laterals remain in the field for the entire season, it provides high application uniformity if designed correctly.

What is a gun-type (rain-gun) sprinkler, and how much area can it cover?

A rain-gun is a high-capacity "giant sprinkler" capable of covering a diameter of up to 180 meters. It is mounted on a trailer and can discharge up to 78 liters of water per second, making it suitable for large-scale fields.

What are the limitations of using a rain-gun system in windy regions?

Rain-gun systems are not suitable for regions with high wind velocity. Because they discharge a large volume of water over a wide diameter, wind can easily disrupt the spray pattern and reduce irrigation efficiency

What materials are typically used for hand move sprinkler systems?

Hand move systems are primarily constructed from aluminum and feature pipes with diameters ranging from 50 to 150 mm. These systems are considered fully portable as the lateral pipes are manually carried to new positions.

What are the three main types of continuous move sprinkler system

The three primary types are center-pivot sprinkler systems, traveler sprinkler systems (also known as reel irrigators), and linear-move sprinkler systems. All three move constantly across the field while water is being supplied.

What pressure range is required for a mini-sprinkler to operate effectively?

Mini-sprinklers are designed for low-pressure operations, typically requiring between 1.5 and 2.0 kg/cm². This makes them highly energy-efficient for smaller agricultural applications like orchards.

What defines a traveler sprinkler system (reel irrigator)?

A traveler system is a type of continuous move irrigation unit that connects to a mainline and moves constantly across the field. It is categorized alongside center-pivots as a solution for large-scale, low-labor irrigation.

Classification of Sprinkler Irrigation System

By Hossein Jalalian

20 minutes read

Classification of Sprinkler Irrigation System

What percentage of water do you think is wasted by conventional irrigation methods? Most of the world's irrigated agriculture relies on surface irrigation, which has the lowest water use efficiency (30–35%). The water use efficiency of novel methods (drip, sprinkler, etc.) is significantly higher (50–90%) (ISO, 2017). Irrigation is the process of applying water to the soil to meet the water needs of crops and plants. The development of irrigation systems, such as drip or sprinkler irrigation, has a positive impact on the efficiency of water application. Sprinklers have evolved to be able to apply larger drops, be better distributed along with the land, and operate at low pressures (Rocha et al., 2023). Compared to conventional technologies, sprinkler irrigation technology has several advantages, including greater capacity to apply smaller quantities of water more frequently at a local level (Thorp, 2019). This system can adapt to most soil types and different topographies, as well as being flexible in design and operation. This method of irrigation results in more than 50.0% water savings compared to surface irrigation (Matter et al., 2022) and is easy to install in agricultural fields. Sprinkler irrigation is used for a wide variety of plants, including field crops, vegetables, orchards, etc. Sprinkler systems can also be installed for applying wastewater, protecting plants from frost, and controlling dust in animal operations (Bjorneberg, 2013).

For deeper insights into “Irrigation Systems” explore the full article.

For deeper insights into “Drip Irrigation System in Agriculture” explore the full article.

In general, there are two main categories of sprinkler system classification: (1) conventional systems, including permanent fixed, temporary fixed, semi-fixed, and portable; and (2) mechanised systems, including linear systems, rolling lateral, centre pivot, self-propelled, and direct assembly (Testezlaf, 2017).

This article discusses the classification of sprinkler irrigation systems based on different aspects of the sprinkler.

A large-scale continuous move sprinkler irrigation system operating in a green agricultural field — Fig. 1. Continuous move sprinkler irrigation system

Table. Classification of sprinkler irrigation system

Classification of sprinkler irrigation system

Based on method of water application

Based on portability

Based on precipitation rates

Based on principle of operation

Based on movement

1. Rotating Sprinklers

1.1. Impact Sprinklers

1.2. Reaction Sprinklers

1.3. Fixed or Spray Sprinklers

1.4. Gear Sprinklers

2. Perforated Pipe Sprinkler Systems

1. A fully portable system

2. Semi-portable system

3. Semi-permanent system

4. Permanent system

1. Low Volume Sprinkler

2. Medium Volume Sprinkler

3. High Volume Sprinkler

1. Whirling sprinkler

2. Turbo hammer-sprinkler

3. Propeller sprinkler

4. Mini-sprinkler

1. Set-move Sprinkler

1.1. Hand move

1.2. Tow-move

1.3. Side Roll

1.4. Gun-type

2. Solid Set Sprinkler

3. Continuous Move Sprinkler

1.Sprinkler Classification Based on Water Application Method

Rotating or perforated pipe sprinklers are available in a wide range of sizes and cover relatively large areas. It is the most common type used in agriculture. Different types of rotating sprinklers, based on the method of water application, are classified as follows:

1.1. Rotating Sprinklers

A rotating sprinkler is a common type used in agriculture. These sprinklers are available in a wide range of sizes and cover relatively large areas. Different types of rotating sprinklers based on the method of water application are classified as follows (Shankar et al., 2018):

Perforated pipe classification showing lateral water distribution for low-pressure irrigation — Fig. 2. Perforated pipe sprinkler irrigation system

1.1.1. Impact Sprinklers

Impact type sprinklers have one or more nozzles that discharge jets of water into the air. A constant diameter nozzle made of brass or plastic is the most common type of nozzle used with the impact sprinkler. This type is suitable for large areas.

A professional impact sprinkler irrigation system head spraying water in a circular motion on crops — Fig. 3. Impact sprinkler irrigation system for agricultural use

1.1.2. Reaction Sprinklers

Reaction type sprinklers are typically rotated by the torque produced by the reaction of water leaving the sprinkler. This type is not suitable for irrigating large areas as compared to an impact or gear driven sprinkler.

A fixed spray sprinkler head distributing water droplets in a consistent pattern over a green garden — Fig. 4. Stationary spray sprinkler in irrigation classification

1.1.3. Fixed or Spray Sprinklers

Fixed head type sprinklers are somehow similar to the microjets that spray water in an umbrella shape. Many-fixed nozzle sprinklers can produce small droplets.

A fixed head type sprinkler system spraying water in a constant pattern over a green agricultural field — Fig. 5. Fixed head type sprinklers

1.1.4. Gear Sprinklers

Sometimes rotating sprinklers are driven by small water turbines located in the base of the sprinkler, which are called gear driven sprinklers. This type of sprinkler is suitable for large areas and can rotate smoothly.

A gear driven sprinkler irrigation head rotating smoothly to distribute water over a large farm field — Fig. 6. Gear driven sprinkler system for silent operation

1.2. Perforated Pipe Sprinkler Systems

A perforated pipe sprinkler system consists of drilled holes in a portable lateral that can distribute the water at a uniform rate. This system is suitable for lawns, gardens, and small vegetables, and it is also suitable for soils that have moderately higher infiltration rates.

A perforated pipe sprinkler system with drilled holes distributing water at a uniform rate on a lawn — Fig. 7. A perforated pipe sprinkler system

2. Types of Sprinkler Systems Based on Portability

The portability of sprinkler irrigation technology can be divided into four main types, depending upon the movement of lateral, mainline, submain, and pumping units. These four types are (Shankar et al., 2018):

2.1. A fully portable system

In this type, the entire sprinkler system can be moved from one place to another. This system includes a portable pumping and filtration unit as well as the main line and laterals, which are made of aluminium. So it can be shifted from one place to another due to the water source. In this type of sprinkler, the labour cost is much higher than the initial investment.

A fully portable sprinkler irrigation system with movable mainlines and pump unit on a farm field — Fig. 8. Fully portable sprinkler irrigation system

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2.2. Semi-portable system

It is somehow similar to the fully portable system. But in this type of sprinkler, the filtration and pumping units are fixed near the water source. It can be used in different areas; however, it cannot be used on more than one farm when there is only one pumping plant. In this type of sprinkler, the labour cost is comparatively less than the initial investment.

A semi-portable sprinkler irrigation system with fixed pump and movable lateral pipes on farm land — Fig. 9. Semi-portable sprinkler irrigation system

2.3. Semi-permanent system

This sprinkler system consists of a mainline, a sublime, a pumping plant, and a filtration unit with a permanent water source. In this type, only the laterals and sprinkler heads can be moved. The mainline and sublines are mostly buried below the plough depth to prevent interference with cultivation practices.

A semi-permanent sprinkler irrigation system with fixed mainlines and movable lateral pipes on crops — Fig. 10. Semi-permanent sprinkler irrigation system setup

2.4. Permanent system

The whole system is costly and permanent, including the filtration unit, laterals, mainline, and pumping plant. In these sprinklers, the laterals, mainlines, and sublines are buried in the ground at about 60-90 cm depth to avoid interference with cultivation practices. The sprinkler head is also located on the riser pipes.

A permanent sprinkler irrigation system with fixed underground pipes and stationary heads on crops — Fig. 11. Permanent sprinkler irrigation system in operation

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3. Classification of Sprinklers Based on Precipitation Rates

The average precipitation rate of all sprinklers in an area is referred to as the precipitation rate for a sprinkler system. Irrigation Sprinkler Classification due to the precipitation rate are: low, medium, and high-pressure sprinklers. The characteristics of the system components, together with the operating pressure of a sprinkler, determine the flow rate, the degree of spraying of the drops, and the intensity of precipitation provided by the system (Shankar et al., 2018; Rocha et al., 2023).

3.1. Low Volume Sprinkler

Although rotary sprinklers working under low pressure are not very common, they are widely used in agriculture and are suitable for uneven terrain and sloping farmlands (Zhang et al., 2019). The low-pressure rotary sprinkler is designed to be applied in fixed sprinklers, and if the structure is designed properly, it can achieve a high-quality water application. In a low volume sprinkler, the precipitation rate will be less than 13 mm/hr (Chen et al., 2020).

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A low pressure rotary sprinkler designed for fixed irrigation on uneven terrain and sloping farmlands — Fig. 12. Low Pressure Rotary Sprinkler

3.2. Medium Volume Sprinkler

In most conventional sprinkler irrigation systems, medium pressure sprinklers are used. One or two nozzles (with 4 and 7 mm diameters) are installed in these sprinklers. According to Robles et al. (2017), at mean pressure, the water jet breaks enough to form an adequate pattern of conical water distribution. In medium volume sprinkler systems, the relationship between irrigation uniformity and wind speed is stronger. In a medium volume sprinkler, the precipitation rate will be between 13 and 25 mm/hr.

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A professional medium volume sprinkler head designed for high pressure water distribution on farms — Fig. 13. Medium volume sprinkler for agricultural use

3.3. High Volume Sprinkler

High volume sprinklers can be widely used for the irrigation of sugarcane, corn, etc. (Testezlaf, 2017). Compared to low-pressure sprinklers, high-pressure sprinklers have a wider wetting diameter, and therefore, the applied water will spread over a wide area. In a high volume sprinkler, the precipitation rate will be more than 25 mm/hr.

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A high volume rain gun sprinkler designed for wide area irrigation on large agricultural farm lands — Fig. 14. High volume sprinkler or rain gun system

4. Classification of Sprinklers Based on Principle of Operation

Most sprinklers, particularly those used for field crops, can be classified into four groups based on the operation mechanism (Shankar et al., 2018).

4.1. Whirling Sprinkler

In this type, the water jet releases from the end of the arm, which results in a rotary movement occurring at high speed in a reverse direction. It is easy to operate and does not need much pressure. The whirling sprinkler has a small diameter and is usually used to irrigate gardens and orchards.

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A whirling sprinkler unit rotating at high speed to irrigate a green garden and orchard area — Fig. 15. Whirling sprinkler

4.2. Turbo hammer-sprinkler

In this type, the water jet operates a wheel and activates the hammer. This action turns the sprinkler on. It is made of plastic material and is mostly used for garden and orchard irrigation.

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A turbo hammer-sprinkler head using a water jet to activate the wheel for garden and orchard irrigation — Fig. 16. Turbo hammer-sprinkler

4.3. Propeller sprinkler

In this type, the water jet strikes the propeller, which is rotated at a high speed around its shaft. This action results in a circular motion of the sprinkler. It is made of plastic material and needs a few components to be manufactured. The propeller sprinkler is used for irrigating field crops.

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A propeller sprinkler rotating at high speed to create a circular water motion for field crops — Fig. 17. Propeller sprinkler

4.4. Mini-sprinkler

In this type, the water jet strikes a bearing, which processes one or two channels. This action rapidly rotates the mini sprinklers and distributes water. It is made of plastic materials and is usually used for irrigating orchards and gardens. It gives a low discharge at an operating pressure of about 1.5 to 2.0 kg/cm².

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A mini-sprinkler unit using a rotating bearing to distribute water over orchard and garden crops — Fig. 18. Mini-sprinkler system in operation

5. Classification of Sprinklers Based on Movement

The sprinkler system classification based on the movement can be divided into three main groups. These groups are discussed in the following (Shankar et al., 2018; Bjorneberg, 2013).

5.1. Set-move Sprinkler Irrigation System

Set-move sprinkler irrigation systems are designed to slowly apply water during the irrigation set in 8 to 24 hours. It is possible to move this system from one position to another mechanically or by using a hand. As long as the water is applied, the set move system remains stationary. When the system is shut off, the sprinkler laterals are drained, and they will be shifted to the next set position. This mechanism will be repeated until the entire field is irrigated.

5.1.1. Hand Move Sprinkler System

This system can be moved to the next set position by picking up and carrying the lateral pipes by hand. The hand movement systems are mostly made of aluminium and have a diameter of 50 to 150 mm. This type of sprinkler can also be classified as a fully portable system based on its portability.

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A hand move sprinkler irrigation system with aluminium lateral pipes being relocated manually on farm — Fig. 19. Hand move sprinkler irrigation system

5.1.2. Tow-move Sprinkler System

This system is the least expensive type of sprinkler. In this type, each section of tow-move laterals has wheels that facilitate the movement of the laterals to the next set position. However, this type is not widely used since moving the laterals is tedious and needs careful attention. This system may also damage the crops.

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Fig. 20. Tow-move sprinkler system

5.1.3. Side Role or Wheel Move Sprinkler System

A tow-move sprinkler system with wheels on lateral pipe sections for easier movement across a farm — Fig. 20. Tow-move sprinkler system

This system is one of the most popular types of set-move irrigation systems. In this type, there are wheels on each section of pipe in the lateral role, and the pipe is the axle of the wheel. When an irrigation set is completed and the pipe has drained, the wheel line can be rolled to the next position.

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A side roll irrigation system with large wheels attached to lateral pipes in an open farm field — Fig. 21. Side roll (wheel roll) sprinkler system

5.1.4. Gun-type (Rain-gun) Sprinkler System

This type of sprinkler is known as a giant sprinkler. It is a set-move irrigation system consisting of a large volume sprinkler that is mounted on a wheeled car or trailer. It can be moved from set to set with a tractor or by hand. This system can be used for wastewater disposal. The gun-type sprinklers can be applied to soils with high infiltration rates; they cover a large diameter (180 m) and have a very large capacity of up to 78 lit/sec. However, this system is not suitable in regions that have a high wind velocity.

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A gun-type rain gun sprinkler mounted on a wheeled car distributing water over a large open field — Fig. 22. Gun-type (Rain-gun) sprinkler system

5.2. Solid Set Sprinkler System

This irrigation system has sufficient laterals and sprinkler heads and can irrigate the entire field simultaneously. The laterals will be installed on the ground early in the crop season and will remain for the entire season. This system is mainly used for crops and plants that need short and frequent irrigation every 1 to 5 days. Solid-set systems have high application uniformity if they are properly designed (Bjorneberg, 2013).

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A solid-set irrigation system with multiple sprinklers operating simultaneously across a large field — Fig. 23. Solid-set sprinkler irrigation system

5.3. Continuous Move Sprinkler System

The continuous move systems consist of laterals and sprinklers that connect to the mainline and move constantly as water is supplied. In areas where labour costs are high and there is also a labour shortage for moving laterals and sprinklers from one place to another, these irrigation systems are commonly used. There are three types of continuous move systems: (1) centre-pivot sprinkler systems; (2) traveller sprinkler systems (reel irrigators); and (3) linear-move sprinkler systems.

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A collage showing traveler, linear-move, and center-pivot systems for continuous field irrigation — Fig. 24. Types of continuous move sprinkler systems

6. Conclusion

Sprinkler irrigation systems are known as one of the most popular methods for irrigating agricultural lands. By using fixed or moving sprinkler irrigation systems, water will be sprayed on the soil and plants. A number of factors, including the soil or crop type, wind speed, operation costs, infrastructure availability, etc., affect the efficiency of the irrigation system, and these factors should be taken into account when choosing a sprinkler irrigation technology. Therefore, considering different classifications of sprinkler irrigation systems and choosing a proper system will maximise application efficiency, minimise costs, reduce energy consumption, and increase productivity.